After yet another inexcusable loss to Wisconsin, the Lincoln Riley era at USC looks to be nearing an end
USC’s 17-10 loss at Wisconsin has renewed questions about Lincoln Riley’s future, after the Trojans appeared to be building momentum towards a possible College Football Playoff place. The article argues that the defeat exposed familiar problems with discipline, coaching and performance on the road, making a hoped-for turning point look less likely.
USC entered the game 5-1, following a 31-23 win at Penn State, and had a top-ranked recruiting class, returning quarterback Jayden Maiava and new defensive coordinator Gary Patterson. Against Wisconsin, Maiava threw two interceptions and the Trojans’ running game finished with minus-17 yards, including minus-57 rushing yards for the quarterback. USC also gave up a touchdown after failing to adjust to an unusual fourth-down formation; the supplied article text ends before describing the rest of the game.
In short
- USC lost 17-10 at Wisconsin.
- The defeat revived questions about Riley’s leadership.
- USC’s offence struggled, with minus-17 rushing yards overall.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The loss may reinforce the view that Riley has not resolved persistent problems in discipline, road performance and coaching adjustments, despite strong recruiting and a promising start to the season. With a narrow defeat exposing costly turnovers and a struggling running game, supporters of a change could argue USC needs new leadership to make consistent progress.
The case against
One poor result, especially in a close game, may be too little evidence to conclude Riley’s tenure should end; USC had started 5-1 and recently won at Penn State. A top recruiting class, a returning quarterback and a new defensive coordinator could justify giving the team time to develop, while judging Riley over a broader run of results rather than one loss.