Colin Cowherd Sounds Off On Lincoln Riley’s Main Issue As USC

Cowherd questions USC’s direction

On Monday’s edition of The Herd, Colin Cowherd said he had expected Riley, Steve Sarkisian and Lane Kiffin to succeed at USC. He said none had done so. Cowherd also argued that Riley’s expensive buyout might not look so costly in light of the team’s results.

Expectations rose after offseason

USC appeared positioned for a breakthrough after Riley had a successful offseason. Jayden Maiava returned at quarterback, along with the full starting offensive line and running backs Waymond Jordan and King Miller. Riley also brought in a top-ranked first-year class, adding to expectations for the Trojans’ season.

Road performance raises concerns

USC’s offensive showing against Wisconsin prompted questions about Riley’s playcalling. The Trojans recorded one passing touchdown, turned the ball over twice, allowed five sacks and finished with minus-57 rushing yards.

Cowherd said Riley’s main issue was the team’s play away from home. He described USC as playing “soft” on the road and said Wisconsin offered another example.

A demanding stretch remains

USC’s next three opponents were listed as No. 2 Ohio State, Indiana and Maryland, followed by UCLA. The article says one more loss across that run would match Riley’s 2025 regular season. It adds that Riley could potentially finish another season without serious questions about his job.