LOS ANGELES — The University of Southern California football program is at a critical juncture as head coach Lincoln Riley prepares for a high-stakes matchup against Ohio State on Saturday. The game, originally billed as a marquee matchup, now carries outsized significance following USC’s 6-2 record and consecutive losses to Wisconsin and Oregon.
The Trojans’ 7-0 loss to Wisconsin in Madison has intensified scrutiny of Riley’s leadership. USC currently sits on the fringe of College Football Playoff contention, with a No. 1-ranked recruiting class but inconsistent performance on the road. The team’s offensive output has been particularly criticized, with Riley’s squad scoring just 42 points in three road games since his arrival in 2022.
Riley’s future in Los Angeles may depend on the outcome against Ohio State, which will field a backup quarterback for the game. The Buckeyes’ starter is sidelined, raising questions about USC’s ability to capitalize on an opportunity against an undermanned opponent. The matchup follows Riley’s post-Wisconsin remarks, where he acknowledged the team’s need to improve under pressure.
“You have to own it,” Riley said after the Wisconsin loss. “This is the same team that played a different brand of football at Penn State two weeks ago, and we’re very capable of doing that again.”
Riley, who took over USC after a 57-8 record at Oklahoma, has yet to lead the Trojans to a playoff berth since joining the program in 2022. His tenure has been marked by high expectations due to USC’s transition to the Big Ten Conference and the infusion of elite talent.
Cowherd Criticizes USC’s Road Struggles
Sports media personality Colin Cowherd amplified concerns about Riley’s leadership in a Monday broadcast, questioning the team’s resilience away from home. Cowherd, a FOX Sports host, argued that USC’s performance under pressure reflects a broader issue with the program’s culture.
“Soft doesn’t travel,” Cowherd stated. “When they get in a crisis, they get bullied; they get pushed around. It’s not getting better.”
Cowherd also contrasted USC’s struggles with UCLA’s physical, run-heavy approach under coach Chip Kelly, suggesting that Riley’s offensive philosophy has failed to adapt to the demands of the Big Ten.
Financial Implications of a Potential Coaching Change
Riley’s contract includes a $70 million buyout clause, which would become a factor if USC were to part ways with him. The buyout is structured to cover the remaining years of his deal, reflecting the high cost of his departure. Athletic director Mike Bohn has not publicly addressed Riley’s job security, but the Wisconsin loss has escalated discussions about the program’s trajectory.
USC’s next steps remain uncertain as the Trojans prepare to face Ohio State, a game that could redefine Riley’s tenure and the program’s immediate future.