Jayden Maiava excited to see it on Saturdays as USC strives for CFP

Growing up in a valley just east of Honolulu, Jayden Maiava didn’t have access to many youth camps.When he decided to hold one near his home over the summer, the USC quarterback didn’t think there would be much interest.Of course, there was.This is the star of a team that could contend for a national title.“Crazy turnout,” Maiava said Wednesday.“I mean, I didn’t think that many kids would show up, but I mean, I think it was a phenomenal youth camp.

Shout-out to the people that helped me put it together.”The eyes of Hawaii — not to mention the entire college football world — will be locked on Maiava in the months to come.In his second full season as the Trojans’ starting quarterback, Maiava will be the centerpiece of an offense that should once again be the team’s strength.The entire offensive line returns.Running backs Waymond Jordan and King Miller could be the best 1-2 rushing punch in the nation.

Freshman tight end Mark Bowman appears poised to make a huge impact.And there’s plenty of potential — if not proven talent — among the wide receivers.While Tanook Hines, the only returning starter, will be sidelined for much of training camp with an unspecified injury that’s not expected to keep him out of the season opener, Maiava said he’s liked what he’s seen from the rest of a young group of receivers.Among those vying for immediate playing time are freshmen Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, Trent Mosley and Ethan “Boobie” Feaster.“Given how young they are,” said Maiava, a redshirt senior, “you couldn’t really tell given how well they’re doing with the playbook and everything they’re doing.

It’s a super special group, and I’m excited to see it on Saturdays.”A wild card to watch is Terrell Anderson, a transfer from N.C.State who made 39 catches for 629 yards and five touchdowns last season with the Wolfpack.Alluding to all the newcomers, coach Lincoln Riley said he liked Maiava’s ability to adapt to a new cast of receive...