Lincoln Riley faces pressure heading into 2026 season at USC

Lincoln Riley enters the 2026 season at USC amidst growing expectations after four years as head coach. Despite a 9-4 record last season, USC's performance, including losses to ranked opponents and an underwhelming finish in the Holiday Bowl, has raised questions about their trajectory. With the number one-ranked recruiting class and a strong returning quarterback, Riley's ability to compete in the upcoming season is critical. Well-resourced to contend for a playoff spot in an expanded format, Riley must navigate tough matchups against Oregon, Indiana, Penn State, and Washington while avoiding upset losses to teams like UCLA.

• 12:03 PMYahoo Sports — Lincoln Riley the head coach with the most to lose per CBS Sports