Pressure mounts on Lincoln Riley as USC seeks playoff breakthrough

As the 2026 college football season approaches, USC football head coach Lincoln Riley faces mounting scrutiny for failing to secure a College Football Playoff berth during his five-year tenure. Analysts emphasize that expectations are high after a 2025 season marked by a 9-4 record and defensive struggles against top teams. The Trojans allowed 42 points to Oregon and 34 points to both Notre Dame and Illinois. With a newly constructed $225 million training complex and former TCU coach Gary Patterson taking over as defensive coordinator, USC aims to improve in 2026. Returning quarterback Jayden Maiava is expected to play a key role in the offense, leading the Big Ten with 285.5 passing yards per game last season.

• 4:03 AMYahoo Sports — USC football news: Lincoln Riley called out, lack of College Football Playoff success