USC football opposing player scouting report – Amari Jackson, Maryland

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USC football plays the Maryland Terrapins this season. ESPN looked at a cornerback it deems Maryland's best new player for 2026.

"Though there was not a major loss at the cornerback position from the 2025 season, the Terrapins' defense needed to add some depth and talent to come in and help bolster a passing defense that was the third worst in the Big Ten in average yards per game and gave up the most passing touchdowns in the league with 25. Veteran cornerback Jackson out of Boston College is an experienced player who can immediately add value.

"During his career, Jackson has sat out time because of injury but when he is healthy, he is a very effective cornerback. Jackson plays instinctive football, anticipating and breaking on balls with efficiency. He has functionality to operate in man and zone coverage. Jackson can play corner or nickel as the Terrapins try to tighten up some loose ends in the back half of the defense."

USC's offensive line should be able to give Jayden Maiava enough time to survey the Maryland secondary. Maryland's defensive line should not be able to trouble USC's offensive front. This should give Maiava and the USC passing game a leg up against the Maryland secondary. That said, Jackson is the one player the Trojans will have to account for when they face the Terrapins. USC should hammer Maryland, but the one way the game will be close is if the Trojans' offense is careless. Taking note of the Terps' best new defensive player is an essential part of USC's path to victory.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Maryland cornerback Amari Jackson will try to thwart USC offense

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