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UNLV Transfer Jayden Maiava, USC's First Polynesian QB, Leads Trojans Over Nebraska Despite Early Pick-Six

Nov 16, 2024, 09:41 PM

Jayden Maiava, a UNLV transfer taking over for Miller Moss, made history as the first quarterback of Polynesian descent to start for USC. Facing Nebraska, Maiava's debut began with a rocky start as he threw a 45-yard pick-six intercepted by former USC cornerback Ceyair Wright, following pressure from Ty Robinson, giving Nebraska an early 7-0 lead. Despite this setback, Maiava rebounded by completing seven straight passes, including two touchdown throws. His first touchdown pass was a 6-yard screen to Zachariah Branch, tying the game at 7-7. The second was a 12-yard pass to Kyron Hudson, who made a remarkable bobbling catch, putting USC ahead 14-7 in the second quarter. Maiava acknowledged the significance of his role, saying, "It's big shoes to fill." USC's offense showed a balanced attack with increased play-action and ground game, accumulating 157 yards to Nebraska's 35. The game also featured on-field tensions, including a pre-game scuffle and an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against USC's Makai Lemon. The Coliseum was loud as the historic game unfolded.