So UNLV redshirt freshman QB Jayden Maiava was gonna be a Dawg, but changed his mind for Southern Cal. No one saw it coming, and he was gone as fast as he appeared. But the momentary move certainly raises some interesting thoughts.

Even after seeing Brock Vandagriff head to Kentucky and Dylan Raiola opt for the blustery winters of Lincoln, Nebraska, the return of Carson Beck plus long time Bobo pupil Gunnar Stockton and incoming Ryan Puglisi had the QB room well stocked. But injuries occur and Kirby wanted another.

That Maiava was the target, a 6’4 mobile signal caller who started for the Runnin Rebels last year would suggest the staff wants more competition for Beck’s successor. Does the staff feel like Puglisi can become a starter or that Stockton is a no doubt heir apparent? It’s hard to imagine the second team all conference selection in Maiava was coming to do anything other than start, and he’ll have that chance in Los Angeles to replace Heisman Trophy winning Caleb Williams immediately as opposed to waiting a year on Beck to head to the NFL.

Should we expect Smart and Bobo to keep looking for a talented young QB with starting experience to compete against Stockton and Puglisi behind Beck? Or do we look towards elite in state options in 2025’s recruiting class? Does the “collective” have the budget to go for both?

Share your thoughts on this and any other roster needs below.