USC Trojans Struggle to Meet Expectations Amid Mounting Criticism

The definition of insanity, often quoted as doing the same thing repeatedly while expecting different results, seems to have become an unofficial motto for the USC Trojans football program since the departure of Pete Carroll. This notion rings particularly true when examining USC’s performance in the first half of the 2026 season in Los Angeles.

USC entered the current season with clear objectives: qualify for the College Football Playoff and reclaim national prominence after years of disappointments. The schedule presented significant challenges, featuring home games against formidable teams like Oregon, Ohio State, and Washington, along with away matches against Penn State, Wisconsin, Indiana, and UCLA.

USC Coach Lincoln Riley claims the Trojans are ready to win championships.

Head coach Lincoln Riley asserts the team is prepared to achieve greatness. Despite the bold claim, USC faced setbacks. The first test, a game against Oregon, demonstrated USC’s struggles to establish elite status. Oregon amassed over 500 offensive yards, even with backup quarterback Dylan Raiola replacing injured starter Dante Moore. Despite a 27-27 score in the fourth quarter, an ill-timed roughing the passer penalty on USC swung advantage to Oregon, resulting in another disappointing loss for Riley.

While one loss isn’t catastrophic, Saturday’s game against Washington offered a chance for USC to prove the Oregon loss wasn’t indicative of their overall quality. Yet, frustrations boiled over, marked by chants of “Fire Lincoln” from USC’s student section, even amid sweltering 100-degree temperatures.

The source of frustration among the students stemmed partly from poor tackling efforts, notably during a UW touchdown in the third quarter, which extended Washington’s lead to 21-10. Announcers were not shy to criticize USC’s effort and execution, labeling them lacking.

Throughout recent games, USC has struggled with penalties and missed opportunities. Multiple promising plays were nullified due to avoidable errors. Jayden Maiava, the Trojans’ quarterback, threw a costly interception and underthrew receivers at crucial moments. Key drives were marred by illegal formation penalties, unsportsmanlike conduct, and other mistakes that thwarted scoring opportunities.

The Trojans managed a 25-21 win against Washington, thanks in part to a pivotal strip-sack and score by defenseman Jakheem Stewart. However, the victory underscored recurring issues under Riley’s leadership.

USC’s substantial investment in NIL deals, facility upgrades, and coaching staff improvements hasn’t resulted in expected dominance. Despite a 5-1 record, doubts linger over their ability to compete against well-coached, elite teams like Ohio State or Indiana.

Maintaining the current path aligns with the definition of insanity, leaving USC fans and stakeholders to question Riley’s future amidst growing criticism. With substantial resources allocated, expectations remain unmet, intensifying scrutiny on Riley’s leadership.