USC Trojans: Challenges and Disappointments Under Lincoln Riley

Modern college football can change rapidly, and for the USC Trojans, those changes have been noticeable. Despite initial optimism, challenges continue under Lincoln Riley’s leadership.

A few weeks ago, USC seemed to be gaining momentum. However, Riley’s teams struggle on the road, especially against major programs. In 2025, the Trojans went 9-3, losing to Illinois, Oregon, and Notre Dame.

Things were expected to improve in 2026; SC recruited the top class in the country. Starting quarterback Jayden Maiava, entering his third year, was backed by a new defensive coordinator, Gary Patterson, known for elite performances at TCU.

Despite a tough schedule against Oregon, Penn State, Ohio State, and Indiana, hopes were high. Winning 10 games and making the College Football Playoff seemed achievable. Through October, they were still contenders.

Chaos in the SEC created openings for at-large spots. USC, despite losing to Oregon, was 5-1 before facing Penn State. This game saw the Trojans well-prepared, overcoming the “White Out” crowd and a motivated Penn State to win 31-23.

Ohio State lost their starting quarterback Julian Sayin, making their Halloween matchup look more favorable for USC. SC needed to survive a road trip to Wisconsin to set up a significant home game.

However, against Wisconsin, the Trojans appeared poorly coached, undisciplined, and unable to recover when behind. Their offensive line struggled against a defense that had previously allowed 41 points to Notre Dame.

Maiava delivered one of his poorest performances, throwing two interceptions, one deflected, and taking intentional grounding penalties. His struggles contributed to a blocked field goal.

The running game faltered, tallying minus-17 yards, thanks to Maiava’s minus-57 rushing yards. Receiving corps dropped crucial passes at critical times.

Wisconsin executed an eight-minute touchdown drive before halftime. Errors compounded as Boobie Feaster muffed the kickoff. SC couldn’t capitalize, ending the half on their 8-yard line.

Riley’s mistakes in the second half were glaring. On fourth-and-2 at USC’s 16-yard line, a misalignment allowed a touchdown from Wisconsin’s unusual formation.

USC’s drive starting the fourth quarter was marked by poor decisions, leading to a lengthy, unsuccessful field goal attempt. Wisconsin capitalized with a decisive touchdown that finalized SC’s loss.

Though not entirely Riley’s fault, the loss exposed team weaknesses. Maiava seemed hurried and flustered. The offensive line struggled, yielding pressure constantly.

Despite Wisconsin’s limited offense, averaging just 3.5 yards per play and 200 total yards, USC’s defense couldn’t halt their drives. SC allowed them multiple scoring chances.

USC still has a chance for playoffs with victories against Ohio State, Indiana, Maryland, and UCLA. Reality suggests winning all may be unrealistic, likely limited to two victories, leading to another disappointing season.

USC has invested heavily yet remains short of expectations. Year five under Riley shows no playoff appearances, minimal defensive improvements, with Caleb Williams concluding his time in LA at 7-5.

Meanwhile, UCLA thrives under Bob Chesney, approaching playoffs even with a backup quarterback defeating Wisconsin at the Rose Bowl.

USC’s administration must decide future actions. Despite the difficulty of college football amid NIL and transfer portals, programs like Georgia and Ohio State are consistent contenders. Riley experienced similar success in 2022 before a disappointingly dramatic loss to Tulane.

Fan dissatisfaction grows. Next game at the Coliseum could amplify “Fire Riley” chants, pressuring administration response.