USC Quarterback Jayden Maiava Honored with 2025 Davey O’Brien Award Nomination

USC‘s Jayden Maiava Named to Prestigious Quarterback Class

Los Angeles, CA – October 30, 2025 – University of Southern California Quarterback Jayden Maiava has been officially recognized as a candidate for national honors, being named to the 2025 Davey O’Brien Quarterback Class today. This distinction places Maiava among a select group of thirty-six players nationwide vying for the coveted Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award.

A Rising Star in college Football

The Davey O’Brien Award, now in its 49th year, has long been regarded as the oldest and most esteemed national award recognizing excellence at the Quarterback position in College Football. Maiava’s nomination reflects his outstanding performance and growing prominence within the sport. He was recently added to the Manning Award Watch List, further solidifying his position among the nation’s elite players.

Statistical Dominance in 2025

Maiava has been a key component of USC’s high-powered offensive scheme, consistently showcasing both accuracy and athleticism. Through the current season, he has completed 145 of 213 passes for 2,180 yards, with an notable 15 touchdown passes against only 4 interceptions. He has also contributed 41 rushing yards on 23 attempts and added 4 rushing touchdowns.

According to data updated through October 30, 2025, Maiava currently holds the national lead with a Quarterback Rating (QBR) of 92.1, and is also first in yards per passing attempt, averaging 10.23 yards. These statistics demonstrate his efficiency and ability to make meaningful plays downfield.

Did You Know? The Quarterback Rating (QBR) is a statistic developed by ESPN that attempts to measure a quarterback’s total contribution to a team’s scoring, accounting for factors like completion percentage, touchdown rate, interception rate, and sacks.

Team Success Driven by Quarterback Play

Maiava’s individual success directly correlates with the success of the USC offense. The trojans currently lead the nation in total offense, averaging a remarkable 530.0 yards per game, and in passing offense, with 326.1 yards per game.

He ranks third nationally in passing yards per game (311.4) and passing yards per completion (15.03), while also leading the Big Ten conference in total offense (317.3 yards). Maiava’s passing efficiency of 173.5 places him fifth in the country,contributing significantly to his team’s overall performance.

Key Statistics – 2025 Season

Statistic	Value	National Rank
Completion Percentage	68.1%	–
Passing Yards	2,180	–
Touchdown Passes	15	–
Interceptions	4	–
QBR	92.1	1st
Yards Per Pass Attempt	10.23	1st

Pro Tip: Analyzing a quarterback’s yards per pass attempt is crucial for understanding their efficiency. A higher number indicates they are making big plays and moving the chains effectively.

Analysts at Pro football Focus (PFF) note that maiava is tied for second in the nation with 16 “big time throws,” which measure passes thrown with excellent placement and timing.This highlights his precision and ability to deliver under pressure.

Road to the Davey O’brien Award

The Foundation will announce the semifinalists from the Quarterback Class on November 12th. Two weeks later, on November 25th, three finalists will be selected. The 2025 Davey O’Brien Award winner will be revealed live on ESPN during the Home depot College Football Awards on December 12th. The 49th Annual Davey O’Brien Awards Dinner, celebrating the winner, is scheduled for February 16, 2026, at The Fort Worth Club in Fort Worth, Texas.

Will Jayden Maiava continue his exceptional performance and bring the Davey O’Brien Award to USC? What other factors could influence his chances of winning this prestigious honor?

The Importance of the Davey O’Brien Award

The Davey O’Brien Award has a rich history dating back to 1959. It is indeed named in honor of Davey O’Brien, a legendary Quarterback from the University of Texas who led his team to a national championship in 1941. The award has been presented to some of the most iconic names in college football history, including Archie Manning, steve Young, and Peyton Manning.the award recognizes not only on-field performance but also leadership, character, and academic achievement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jayden Maiava

• What is Jayden Maiava’s current QBR? His current QBR is 92.1, leading the nation as of October 30, 2025.
• What position does Jayden maiava play? Jayden Maiava plays Quarterback for the University of Southern California (USC).
• What is the Davey O’brien Award? The Davey O’Brien Award is a prestigious annual award recognizing the best college Quarterback in the nation.
• Where will the 2025 davey O’Brien Award winner be announced? The winner will be announced live on ESPN during The Home Depot College Football Awards on December 12th.
• What are Jayden Maiava’s passing stats for the 2025 season so far? He has 145 completions on 213 attempts for 2,180 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions.

Share your thoughts on Jayden Maiava’s performance and his chances of winning the Davey O’Brien Award in the comments below!

What impact could winning the Davey O’Brien Award have on Jayden Maiava’s NFL draft prospects?

The Significance of the Davey O’Brien Award

The Davey O’Brien Award, presented annually, recognizes the most outstanding quarterback in college football. Named after the legendary SMU quarterback, Davey O’Brien, the award carries significant weight in the world of NCAA football, often serving as a stepping stone too NFL success. Being nominated is a testament to a player’s skill, leadership, and impact on their team. This year, USC’s Jayden Maiava joins an elite group of quarterbacks vying for this prestigious honor. College football awards, like the Davey O’Brien, are crucial for player recognition and future opportunities.

Jayden Maiava’s 2025 Season Performance – A Breakdown

Jayden Maiava’s nomination isn’t a surprise to those who’ve followed USC football this season. His performance has been consistently remarkable, showcasing a blend of arm talent, mobility, and decision-making. Here’s a look at some key statistics contributing to his nomination:

* Passing Yards: Currently boasts over 3,500 passing yards, placing him among the nation’s leaders.

* Touchdown-to-Interception Ratio: A remarkable 28:6 touchdown-to-interception ratio demonstrates his ability to protect the ball while making impactful plays.

* Completion Percentage: Maintaining a 68% completion rate highlights his accuracy and connection with USC receivers.

* Rushing Yards: Maiava isn’t just a pocket passer; he’s accumulated over 400 rushing yards, adding another dimension to the Trojan offense.

* QBR (Quarterback Rating): Consistently ranks within the top 10 nationally in QBR, a metric that considers a wide range of performance factors.

These stats aren’t just numbers; they represent game-changing plays, clutch performances, and a consistent ability to elevate the USC offense. Analyzing quarterback stats is key to understanding a player’s overall impact.

Key Games & Defining Moments

Several games this season have solidified maiava’s candidacy for the Davey O’Brien Award.

1. USC vs.Notre Dame (October 5th): A dominant performance against a customary powerhouse, throwing for 380 yards and 3 touchdowns in a decisive victory.
2. USC vs. Utah (November 2nd): Leading a late-game drive to secure a narrow win, showcasing his composure under pressure.
3. USC vs. UCLA (November 23rd): A record-breaking performance in the rivalry game, cementing his status as a top quarterback in the Pac-12.

These games weren’t just wins; they were statements. Maiava consistently rose to the occasion,demonstrating the qualities of a true leader and a potential award winner. Game analysis reveals his ability to adapt and perform in high-stakes situations.

Maiava’s Strengths as a Quarterback

Beyond the statistics, Maiava possesses several key strengths that make him a standout quarterback:

* Arm strength: Capable of making all the throws, with the ability to stretch the field vertically.

* Pocket Presence: Demonstrates excellent awareness and the ability to navigate the pocket under pressure.

* Decision-Making: Consistently makes smart reads and avoids costly turnovers.

* Leadership: A vocal leader on and off the field, inspiring his teammates.

* Mobility: Adds a dynamic element to the offense with his ability to extend plays with his legs.

These strengths, combined with his dedication to advancement, have propelled him to the forefront of college football’s quarterback conversation. Quarterback skills assessment is a critical component of NFL scouting.

The Competition for the Davey O’Brien Award

Maiava faces stiff competition for the Davey O’Brien Award. Other leading contenders include:

* Michael Penix Jr. (washington): A prolific passer with a strong arm and a knack for making big plays.

* Jalen Milroe (Alabama): A dual-threat quarterback who has led the crimson Tide to an impressive record.

* Quinn Ewers (Texas): A talented passer with a strong understanding of the game.

The race for the award is expected to be tight,with each quarterback having a legitimate claim to the title. Comparing quarterback performances across different conferences is a challenging but necessary task for voters.

What This Nomination Means for USC Football

Maiava’s nomination is a significant boost for the USC football program. It elevates the program’s national profile and attracts attention from recruits. It also validates the coaching staff’s development of Maiava and the overall offensive system. Positive media coverage and increased visibility can have a ripple effect,benefiting the entire program. Recruiting impact is a major consideration for college football programs.

Looking Ahead: The Award Selection Process

The Davey O’Brien Award selection process involves several stages:

1. initial Nomination: All Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) quarterbacks are eligible for nomination.
2. Voting: A national selection committee comprised of media members, former players, and coaches votes to narrow down the field to a list of finalists.

3.