From Heisman winners to NFL stars, USC has long been a quarterback factory — a place where talent, swagger, and championship expectations collide under the bright lights of the Coliseum. These five signal-callers didn’t just lead the Trojans; they helped shape the identity of one of college football’s most storied programs. Here’s a look at the top five quarterbacks to ever wear the cardinal and gold.

5. Sam Darnold
Darnold’s USC career was brief but electric. Taking over as a redshirt freshman in 2016, he sparked a nine-game win streak that culminated in a Rose Bowl classic — a 52–49 thriller over Penn State where Darnold threw for five touchdowns. His improvisational style, quick release, and poise under pressure made him a fan favorite and a top NFL Draft pick. Though he never won a Pac-12 title, Darnold’s 20–4 record as a starter and his role in reviving USC’s national relevance earn him a spot on this list.

4. Rodney Peete
A dual-threat dynamo in the late 1980s, Peete was the heart of the Trojans’ offense during a time of fierce Pac-10 competition. He finished second in the 1988 Heisman voting and led USC to a 10–2 record and a Rose Bowl berth that same season. Known for his leadership and toughness, Peete was a four-year contributor who left school as one of the most decorated quarterbacks in program history. His legacy is cemented not just in stats, but in the respect he commanded on and off the field.

3. Carson Palmer
Palmer’s USC career was a slow burn that ended in a blaze of glory. After battling injuries and inconsistency early on, he exploded in 2002 under Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Norm Chow, throwing for over 3,900 yards and 33 touchdowns. That season earned him the Heisman Trophy — USC’s first since 1981 — and set the stage for the Trojans’ dynasty to come. Palmer’s arm talent and perseverance made him a foundational figure in USC’s modern resurgence.

2. Caleb Williams
In just two seasons, Williams left an indelible mark on USC football. The 2022 Heisman winner dazzled with his creativity, arm strength, and uncanny ability to extend plays — often turning broken pockets into highlight-reel touchdowns. He led the Trojans to an 11–3 record and a Cotton Bowl berth in his first year, reigniting national buzz around the program. Though team success in 2023 didn’t match expectations, Williams’ individual brilliance and generational talent make him one of the most electrifying players to ever don the Trojan uniform.

1. Matt Leinart
Leinart was the face of USC’s golden era in the early 2000s — a cool, confident leader who won games with precision and poise. He captured the 2004 Heisman Trophy, led the Trojans to two national championships (2003, 2004*), and finished his career with a 37–2 record as a starter. Under his command, USC became a juggernaut, blending star power with ruthless efficiency. Leinart’s combination of accolades, leadership, and big-game success makes him the undisputed king of USC quarterbacks