Just a few weeks ago, the USC Trojans were seemingly riding a wave of positive momentum.In the Lincoln Riley era, SC has struggled to win on the road, particularly against traditionally big programs.
In 2025, for example, the Trojans went 9-3 in the regular season, with all three losses coming at Illinois, at Oregon and at Notre Dame.This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners.If you sign up or place a wager, FOX News may be compensated.
This content was created by a team that works independently from the FOX newsroom.But things were supposed to be different in 2026.SC brought in the number one recruiting class in the country.
They brought back starting quarterback Jayden Maiava, entering his third year in the program and second full season as the starter.New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson brought a wealth of experience and a history of getting elite performance out of TCU level talent.LINCOLN RILEY HOT SEAT RUMORS GET LOUDER AFTER 'FIRE LINCOLN' CHANTS DURING USC-WASHINGTONUSC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts after a play during the game between the USC Trojans and the San Jose State Spartans on Aug.
29, 2026, at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles.(Icon Sportswire)While the schedule looked daunting, thanks to games against Oregon, Penn State, Ohio State and Indiana, 2026 was widely viewed as a turning point for the program.
Win 10 games and make the College Football Playoff, or bust.Through early October, despite some underwhelming performances, the Trojans were squarely in position.Chaos throughout the SEC opened the door for more available at-large spots.
Despite an ugly home loss to a diminished Oregon team, SC was 5-1 heading into a big road game against Penn State.And finally, a Riley-coached SC team looked prepared.
Even with the "White Out" home crowd, a motivated PSU team, the lengthy road trip to the Eastern Time Zone, and a long litany of injuries, SC won 31-23 ahead of their bye week.In the interim...