In the ever-demanding world of college football, no head coach is immune to scrutiny, and Lincoln Riley has found himself right in the spotlight. His journey has been a rollercoaster, especially amid questions about his team’s defensive struggles and the impact of his decision to leave Oklahoma for USC. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the anticipation for results is tangible among the Trojans’ fanbase, who are eager to see their team rise to the occasion.
This year is pivotal for Riley, not just because of the high expectations associated with the storied USC program, but also due to the efforts he’s made off the field. He currently boasts the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class, a testament to his ability to attract elite talent. However, the challenge lies in transforming that talent into on-field success. Analysts are cautious, questioning whether the Trojans possess a roster capable of competing at the highest level in the Big Ten this season.
Urban Meyer, the legendary coach, offered his perspective in a recent appearance on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” bringing attention to the pressures surrounding Riley’s regime. When asked if an 8-5 record would be sufficient for a program with USC’s lofty expectations, Meyer bluntly stated that anything less than excellence simply won’t do. He firmly laid out the consequences of such a record at a powerhouse like Ohio State, reinforcing the notion that USC, with its rich history, should aim significantly higher.
Meyer’s criticisms resonate deeply. While holding the nation’s top recruiting class is impressive, it should be the expectation rather than the exception, especially given the wealth of talent in California. Moreover, the Trojans’ underwhelming 15-11 record over the past two seasons raises eyebrows—Riley was brought in specifically to rejuvenate this storied franchise. Expectations were set high, and fans are restless for tangible results.
Though Meyer stated he wouldn’t directly call for a colleague’s job, his critique does not go unnoticed. His remarks add fuel to the conversation surrounding Riley’s future, intensifying scrutiny on the coach during a critical juncture. Meyer has also previously entered the narrative surrounding USC; his name surfaced during the discussions about Clay Helton’s departure, despite his commitments with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Such an intertwined history certainly raises questions about Meyer’s motives and aspirations.
At 60 years old, Meyer is more than capable of reclaiming a major role in college football if he decides to pursue it fully. Although his tenure in Jacksonville was marred by controversy, he’s likely aware that a return to the sidelines could be on the horizon. If that opportunity arises, it’s reasonable to speculate that he wouldn’t want to join a program struggling for identity—as has been the case recently for USC. His fondness for the Trojans’ rich football tradition certainly adds an interesting layer to this narrative.
As Lincoln Riley navigates the challenges ahead, the pressure to deliver wins and rekindle USC’s glory is palpable. The eyes of the college football community are keenly focused on how he will respond to this critical year. With top-tier recruits in hand, it’s time for the Trojans to turn potential into performance.
