Lincoln Riley’s Critical Season with USC Trojans

Lincoln Riley’s journey as the head coach of the USC Trojans has faced challenges. Appointed before the 2022 season, high hopes surrounded him given his impressive record. At Oklahoma, Riley achieved an overall 55-10 record and a 33-7 conference record. He led the team to four New Year’s Six games and recorded 12 wins for three consecutive seasons. In 2022, a Caleb Williams injury kept USC from potentially reaching the playoff after the Pac-12 Championship.

Fast forward to 2026, this season is pivotal for Riley. Under the guidance of general manager Chad Bowden, the USC athletic department is aligned. Their NIL program has attracted the top-ranked recruiting class. However, the schedule poses tough challenges and patience is wearing thin among supporters.

Lincoln Riley remains confident as the season approaches. In May, at the Big Ten meetings, he observed tangible progress in the team. USC has made strides in talent acquisition and developing a winning mindset. Riley expressed growth in his coaching abilities compared to his time at Oklahoma.

Despite averaging 11 wins annually at Oklahoma, Riley has not matched this at USC yet. He believes the Trojans are on the brink of success. Last season, USC was close to reaching the playoffs, only a few decisive moments away from achieving it. Riley is determined that the program is ready for success.

We were close enough last year to taste it. Literally snaps away from being right in it.

USC faced challenges against top opponents like the Illinois Fighting Illini and Notre Dame. Elite teams capitalize on key moments, and USC has struggled to do so consistently. Some decisions, such as a risky trick play against Notre Dame, led to significant criticism.

This season, despite the absence of Notre Dame, USC faces formidable opponents. They will play Indiana, Penn State, host Ohio State, and face Oregon and Washington. There is also a rivalry game against an incoming UCLA coach and a trip to Wisconsin. Winning nine games could be considered a success, but to silence doubts about his leadership, Riley needs 10 wins and a playoff spot. If not, speculation about his future with the team will intensify.