USC faces Ohio State with backup quarterback in key matchup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 29, 2026, 2:46 PM
Last updated Oct 29, 2026

USC hosts Ohio State amid a struggle for the Buckeyes without starting quarterback Julian Sayin. Backup Luke Fahey steps in for Ohio State as they look to improve their disappointing 2026 season. Lincoln Riley's Trojans are under pressure after a poor performance against Wisconsin. This matchup is crucial for Riley's future leading USC, especially after coming off a two-week break.
- •Ohio State lost to Texas and barely beat Indiana in 2026.
- •Lincoln Riley's USC struggled in a recent game, scoring only seven points.
- •Jayden Maiava faced challenges with no help from offensive teammates against Wisconsin.
- •USC came off a two-week break but was unprepared in their last game.
- •Lincoln Riley's future with USC is on the line in this matchup.
- 2:46 PMYahoo Sports — No excuses for Lincoln Riley and USC versus Ohio State | Opinion
"It can't be any simpler: If Lincoln Riley can't beat an obscure backup QB named Luke Fahey, how can he possibly expect to lead USC into 2027?
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