Jayden Maiava returns to lead the offense.
All programs
Capital Rank122
USC
Jayden Maiava, the leading backs and all five starting offensive linemen return. The offensive ceiling is high; defensive improvement determines the outcome.
Reported spend$30M–$39M
Roster gradeA-
Confidencemoderate
Reported estimate · not audited payroll
Roster construction
What the roster says
All five starting offensive linemen return.
The leading running backs also return.
Continuity & integration
Offensive personnel continuity is excellent; the new defensive leadership must turn talent into improvement.
The case
Strengths
- Returning quarterback
- All five starting offensive linemen return
- High offensive ceiling
The countercase
Risks
- Defensive improvement under new leadership
Evidence trail
Sources used for this record
CBS SportsCollege football roster spending rankings: Most expensive teams in 2026247SportsCollege football roster spending tiers for the Power FourESPNFinal preseason college football SP+ rankings and takeaways for 2026On3Phil Steele ranks the top 69 offensive line rooms for 2026USC Athletics2026 Football Staff