Caleb Williams Offers Halftime Advice to Jayden Maiava
The former Trojan star connected with the current USC quarterback during the team's matchup against Wisconsin.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Football
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Former USC quarterback Caleb Williams offered sideline advice to Jayden Maiava during the halftime break of Saturday's game against Wisconsin. The gesture came as the Trojans faced a 10-7 deficit following a rocky first quarter for the USC offense.
Why it matters
The interaction provided a moment of mentorship for Maiava, who struggled early in the contest with two interceptions against the Badgers defense. With head coach Lincoln Riley under pressure, the performance of the quarterback remains critical to USC's hopes for a College Football Playoff berth.
Jayden Maiava threw two interceptions in the first quarter, contributing to a 10-7 halftime deficit for a USC team that entered the game with a 6-1 record. Wisconsin managed only three points off those two turnovers.
The players
Caleb Williams
He is a former USC quarterback and 2022 Heisman Trophy winner whose jersey number 13 was retired by the university.
Jayden Maiava
He is the current starting quarterback for the USC Trojans football program.
Lincoln Riley
He serves as the head football coach at USC and faces mounting pressure to lead the team to a playoff appearance.
Taniela Tupou
He is a freshman tight end at USC who recorded a touchdown reception during the second quarter of the game.
The details
Caleb Williams, who won the Heisman Trophy while leading USC to an 11-2 record in 2022, approached Maiava on the field during the halftime warm-up period. Maiava had previously connected with freshman tight end Taniela Tupou for a touchdown during the second quarter.
Timeline
Caleb Williams achieved his Heisman-winning season at USC in 2022.
USC hosted the Wisconsin Badgers on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This mid-game exchange highlights the ongoing pressure on the USC program to return to the elite standards established during the 2022 USC football season. A strong finish to the year remains essential for head coach Lincoln Riley to secure a coveted College Football Playoff berth.
Maiava's struggles in the first quarter directly impacted USC's halftime deficit despite the team entering the game with an impressive 6-1 record. His turnover rate will be a key metric to watch as USC fights to maintain its standing in the conference playoff race.
The takeaway
Mentorship from high-profile alumni can provide essential psychological support to young quarterbacks facing adversity during high-stakes games. Implementing steady game-management habits remains the most effective way for players to overcome early-game turnovers.
Further reading
Get more updates and analysis on the Trojans at the Los Angeles Football section.
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