Has a USC QB started a Super Bowl? Sam Darnold looking for team's first Lombardi Trophy

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is set to make history as the first former USC quarterback to start in a Super Bowl. Darnold, originally the No. 3 overall draft pick, has overcome challenging stints with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, as well as a backup role with the San Francisco 49ers, to lead the Seahawks to the championship game in his first season with the team. He signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle in 2025 and recorded 4,048 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions during the regular season.

USC has produced more NFL-drafted quarterbacks than any other college, yet none have started a Super Bowl until Darnold. Notable USC quarterbacks like Mark Sanchez and Carson Palmer have reached conference championship games but not the Super Bowl. Darnold's performance and leadership have placed him second in the ranking of top USC quarterbacks in the NFL, according to USA TODAY Sports, behind only