3 reasons Lincoln Riley should resume worrying about his USC future after Indiana
Big games remain a problem
USC fell short against Indiana after needing to win out to keep a path to the College Football Playoff open. The article also points to losses against Wisconsin and Oregon as setbacks that put the Trojans in a difficult position.
Since USC joined the Big Ten in 2024, the team had two ranked conference wins before this season: No. 15 Michigan and No. 21 Iowa, both last season. This year, the article says, USC’s résumé relies on its win over Ohio State. These results have raised questions about whether Riley can deliver in the games that matter most.
A major playoff chance passed
The article describes this season as USC’s only late-season appearance in the College Football Playoff conversation. A win over Indiana could have strengthened the Trojans’ résumé and made them a leading bubble contender, but they lost.
Riley has not reached the playoff since 2019, when he was at Oklahoma with Jalen Hurts. The article says this was his best chance to return and restore the fan base’s confidence, and argues that coming up short again leaves his standing at USC vulnerable.
Rivals add to the pressure
Oregon has been dominant since joining the Big Ten, while UCLA has had more success than USC this season, according to the article. It also notes that Washington has made more College Football Playoff appearances than Riley has since taking over the Trojans.
The article says the playoff will expand to 24 teams next season and suggests that could affect the administration’s decision about Riley. It argues that if he cannot succeed in the expanded format, his time as USC’s coach may be limited.
Key points
- USC’s loss at Indiana ended its chance to win out and strengthen its playoff case.
- The article cites USC’s limited ranked Big Ten wins as evidence of trouble in major games.
- Riley has not reached the College Football Playoff since 2019, when he coached Oklahoma.
- Oregon, UCLA and Washington have had results that sharpen questions about USC’s direction.