What's Happening?
Sam Huard, a former University of Washington quarterback and 5-star recruit, has reportedly been granted a sixth year of eligibility to play college football. Currently at the University of Southern California
(USC), Huard received a waiver allowing him to extend his college football career, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. This development comes after Huard's injury-plagued 2024 season at Utah, where he did not participate in any games. Huard's college journey has seen him play at multiple institutions, including a redshirt freshman year at Washington, a starting role at Cal Poly, and a brief stint at USC. Known for his memorable play as a punter in a game against Northwestern, Huard is now set to compete in USC's quarterback lineup, which includes senior Jayden Maiava and incoming freshman Jonas Williams. The school has not officially announced Huard's decision to return, but his eligibility provides USC with an additional experienced quarterback option.
Why It's Important?
The extension of Sam Huard's eligibility is significant for both the player and USC's football program. For Huard, it offers a chance to further develop his skills and potentially improve his prospects for a professional career. For USC, having an experienced quarterback like Huard adds depth to their roster, especially with the departure of redshirt freshman Husan Longstreet to the transfer portal. This move could influence the dynamics of the team's quarterback competition and provide a safety net in case of injuries to the starting quarterback. Additionally, Huard's presence could bring leadership and experience to a team navigating changes in its lineup. The decision also highlights the NCAA's flexibility in granting waivers, which can significantly impact players' careers and team strategies.
What's Next?
As USC prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on how the quarterback competition unfolds. With Huard's eligibility confirmed, he will likely participate in spring training and pre-season activities, vying for a backup position behind Jayden Maiava. The team's coaching staff will need to assess Huard's performance and potential contribution to the team's success. Meanwhile, Huard must decide whether to leverage this opportunity to solidify his role at USC or explore other options, such as transferring to a program where he might secure more playing time. The outcome of this competition will be crucial for USC's strategy and performance in the upcoming season.
