Insights As USC Head Coach Lincoln Riley Under Major Fire After Perplexing USC Significant Announcement

USC head coach Lincoln Riley’s time in Los Angeles has been challenging for everyone involved over the past couple of years. After an impressive 11-3 record and a Pac-12 title game appearance in his first season, the team’s performance has declined in the following years. In 2023, the Trojans finished with an 8-5 record, despite having Caleb Williams, the eventual No. 1 overall pick, as their quarterback. Currently, the team stands at a disappointing 4-4 in its inaugural Big Ten season.

Riley has had a strained relationship with the media since his days at Oklahoma, and this has worsened in Los Angeles, a major media market. Following the loss to Minnesota earlier this month, he interrupted a reporter’s question directed at defensive end Jamil Muhammad and previously suspended a beat reporter for two weeks. Recently, a spokesperson announced that media will no longer be allowed at practices, a decision that has displeased fans and journalists.

L.A. Times reporter Iliana Romero noted that access to practice was already limited, which hampers their ability to tell more comprehensive stories about the team, while fan reactions included criticism of Riley’s accountability. Ryan Kartje of the L.A. Times confirmed that interviews will still be permitted after practice, but the reason for the new restriction remains unclear.

Riley’s job security has been a topic of discussion this season, but a report indicated that USC is unlikely to dismiss him, as firing him would cost the university $90 million, the largest buyout in college football history. Consequently, USC fans and media will have to contend with Riley’s decisions until either the team improves or his buyout decreases. The Trojans are on a bye this week and will face the Washington Huskies on November 12.