Lincoln Riley named Tier 3 coach by The Athletic ahead of 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 4:24 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
USC head coach Lincoln Riley has been ranked as a Tier 3 coach by Chris Vannini of The Athletic, raising concerns about his status as an elite coach. Despite a 35-18 record in four seasons, Riley has not led USC to the College Football Playoff. With the Trojans starting the 2026 season ranked No. 14 in the AP poll and star quarterback Jayden Maiava on the roster, the upcoming season is critical for both Riley and the program. The pressure is mounting as USC aims for a potential playoff berth after recent struggles.
- •Lincoln Riley ranked Tier 3 coach by The Athletic.
- •USC has a 35-18 record under Riley.
- •Trojan struggled to reach CFP during his tenure.
- •USC starts 2026 ranked No. 14 in AP poll.
- •Jayden Maiava leads USC ahead of the season.
- 4:24 AMYahoo Sports — USC football news: Lincoln Riley stunningly named Tier 3 coach by The Athletic
"USC head coach Lincoln Riley is under a lot of pressure heading into 2026, and some are questioning whether he is still an elite coach.
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