League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Lincoln Riley looks to guide USC to College Football Playoff berth

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 10:00 AM

Last updated Aug 1, 2026

Lincoln Riley looks to guide USC to College Football Playoff berth

Summary

USC coach Lincoln Riley enters his fifth season aiming for the College Football Playoff, having yet to qualify in his first four years. Preseason media polls predict the Trojans to finish fourth in the Big Ten. USC had a challenging 2025 season, finishing with a 7-6 record and placing 16th in the final CFP rankings. The Trojans face pivotal matchups against highly ranked opponents Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana this season. Riley expressed confidence in the team's alignment and leadership heading into the campaign.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Riley has not yet led USC to a College Football Playoff appearance.
•USC predicted to finish fourth in the Big Ten for the upcoming season.
•Trojan's 2025 record included a 4-5 conference mark.
•USC secured only two notable wins against Michigan and Iowa last season.
•The team faces tough matchups against Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana.

Latest Updates

10:00 AMYahoo Sports — Lincoln Riley Eyes First College Football Playoff Berth As USC’s Coach

What they're saying

"
USC coach Lincoln Riley has yet to make the College Football Playoff in his first four seasons. Preseason media polls predict the Trojans to finish fourth in the Big Ten.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAF College Sports