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Lincoln Riley hires Gary Patterson to improve USC's struggling defense

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 2:35 PM

Last updated Jul 29, 2026

Lincoln Riley hires Gary Patterson to improve USC's struggling defense

Summary

Lincoln Riley is entrusting Gary Patterson with USC's defense as he aims for a breakthrough season in Year 6. Under Riley, USC has excelled offensively, leading in yards per play but struggling defensively, ranking 117th. Patterson, a Hall of Fame coach, joins USC after two years of Riley courting him. This hiring follows a disappointing defensive performance in recent seasons, prompting a strategic change. Riley hopes Patterson can secure a more balanced team as USC looks to contend in the Big Ten.

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By the Numbers

•Lincoln Riley has rebuilt USC's roster and staff since 2022.
•USC's offense ranked 1st nationally in yards per play last season.
•The defense finished 117th, allowing 34.4 points per game.
•Gary Patterson brings extensive defensive expertise to USC.
•Patterson spent the last two years in retirement before joining USC.

Latest Updates

2:35 PMCBS Sports — Lincoln Riley could never solve Gary Patterson -- now he needs him to help save USC

What they're saying

"
Entering a must-win Year 6, Lincoln Riley is turning his defense over to one of his toughest former advesaries in hopes of finally breaking through to the College Football Playoff
— CBS Sportsby Brandon Marcello

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