Makai Lemon’s 2025 season was nothing short of electric - and the accolades just keep rolling in.
After earning First-Team All-American honors and capturing the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver, the USC standout added another trophy to his growing collection this week: Polynesian College Football Co-Player of the Year.
Lemon shares the honor with Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano, a recognition that highlights not just elite performance on the field, but also the pride and impact of Polynesian heritage in college football. For Lemon, it’s another milestone in a season that’s already been one for the books.
He becomes the third Trojan to win the award since its inception in 2014, joining the likes of safety Talanoa Hufanga - who split the honor with BYU quarterback Zach Wilson in 2020 - and defensive lineman Tuli Tuipulotu, who took it home in 2022. That’s elite company, and Lemon’s numbers this season more than justify his place among them.
Let’s break down the production: 79 catches, 1,156 yards, and 11 touchdowns through the air. That’s not just volume - it’s efficiency and explosiveness.
He led all Power Four receivers in yardage, proving to be a consistent deep threat and go-to target in clutch moments. And just for good measure, he added two rushing touchdowns to his stat line.
In an era where versatility is king, Lemon showed he can do damage from anywhere on the field.
His route running? Crisp.
His hands? Reliable.
His ability to create separation and turn short gains into chunk plays? That’s what separates good receivers from great ones.
Lemon wasn’t just a product of USC’s offensive system - he was the system’s engine.
And while Lemon is rightfully soaking in the spotlight, USC fans have another reason to be optimistic: quarterback Jayden Maiava, who was also a finalist for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year, is set to return in 2026. With a full offseason to build on the chemistry he’s already developed, Maiava could be poised for his own breakout campaign - and he’ll likely enter next season as one of the early frontrunners for the same award.
But for now, the moment belongs to Lemon. A dynamic playmaker, a leader, and now, a decorated champion of his heritage. His 2025 season will be remembered not just for the stats, but for how he elevated USC’s offense and left a lasting impression on the college football landscape.