USC quarterback Jayden Maiava has been named a finalist for the Freddie Solomon Community Spirit Award, and is also a member of the class of 2026 for the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award.

The Freddie Solomon Community Spirit Award “recognizes leadership, character and service beyond the game of football.”

A deep commitment to family and giving back to his community in Hawaii is a common theme with Maiava. The spirit of “ohana” fuels Maiava.

Beyond his charitable work in Hawaii, Maiava has given his time and talents to worthy causes in the Los Angeles area.

Maiava donated his time at the regional food bank, served meals at the Midnight Mission, and mentored young people at the Boys and Girls Club.

Now in contention for the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, Maiava has also displayed his talents on the football field, and has led USC to a 7-2 record.

Maiava is No. 1 passer in the Big Ten in passing yards and passing touchdowns. He has thrown just five interceptions.

Further, Maiava’s name can also be found on the following award lists:

Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Top 10

Maxwell Award semifinalist

Walter Camp Player of the Year Award

Polynesian College Football Player of the Year

2026 Big Ten Football Preseason Honors list

Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year,

Allstate AFCA Goodworks Team

Wuerffel Trophy

The Trojans are coming off a bye week after a 30-18 win over then-No. 2 Ohio State.

Against the Buckeyes, Maiava threw for 222 yards and a touchdown.

He is not a stranger to hostile fan bases on the road. Maiava led the Trojans to victory in the White Out game at Penn State.

In that game, he threw for 301 yards and three touchdowns, and no interceptions.

Maiava and the Trojan offense will face a tough test on the road against a dominant Indiana Hoosiers defense.

Indiana ranks in the top 10 nationally in most defensive categories. They are especially tough in defending against the run.

The Hoosiers rank No. 4 in rushing defense, and have allowed opponents just 75 yards per game on the ground. They have not allowed a rushing touchdown in the last three contests.

However, coach Lincoln Riley and Maiava have USC playing at a high level, and they could be a problem for Indiana Saturday in Bloomington.

That is, if Riley and USC utilized the bye week to their advantage.

USC QB Maiava on the Short List for 2 More National Awards

USC quarterback Jayden Maiava has distinguished himself on and off the football field.

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