USC struggles against Wisconsin, questions arise about Lincoln Riley's future
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 25, 2026, 3:04 AM
Last updated Oct 25, 2026
USC football faced a decisive loss against Wisconsin on October 24, 2026, struggling in the second half. After a week off, the Trojans were unable to improve, with poor performance highlighted by two first-quarter interceptions from Jayden Maiava and problematic special teams play, including missed field goals and a blocked attempt. This performance raises significant concerns about head coach Lincoln Riley's effectiveness and future with the program, as USC’s inability to run the ball effectively continued to hamper the team. In Year 5 under Riley, skepticism among fans and analysts intensifies regarding the direction of the Trojan football program.
- •USC lost decisively to Wisconsin on October 24, 2026.
- •Jayden Maiava threw two first-quarter interceptions.
- •USC's special teams missed two field goals and had a blocked attempt.
- •The ground game struggles persisted against Wisconsin's defense.
- •Riley's position is increasingly questioned by fans and analysts.
- 3:09 AMYahoo Sports — Lincoln Riley has reached the end of his USC leash. Now comes the reckoning
- 3:04 AMYahoo Sports — Lincoln Riley makes it impossible to trust him again at USC | Opinion
"In Year 5 of his failed USC tenure, Lincoln Riley continues to be smoked by middle-of-the-road Big Ten opponents. How can he coach this team in 2027?
"After USC's embarrassing loss to Wisconsin, Lincoln Riley has no more room for error as the end is near.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 25, 2026, 3:09 AMLincoln Riley has reached the end of his USC leash. Now comes the reckoning
After USC's embarrassing loss to Wisconsin, Lincoln Riley has no more room for error as the end is near.
- Yahoo SportsOct 25, 2026, 3:04 AMLincoln Riley makes it impossible to trust him again at USC | Opinion
In Year 5 of his failed USC tenure, Lincoln Riley continues to be smoked by middle-of-the-road Big Ten opponents. How can he coach this team in 2027?
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