Lincoln Riley’s tenure at USC was expected to reignite the Trojans’ legacy as a powerhouse in college football. However, recent recruiting struggles and team performance have raised doubts about whether Riley can meet those expectations. Analysts are now questioning whether USC’s recruiting approach and inconsistent on-field results are undermining its future.
Are Coaching Changes Hurting USC’s Ability to Hold On to Top Recruits?
USC’s 2026 recruiting class currently ranks second nationally, a promising sign on paper. However, there’s a catch: the Trojans have faced similar situations before. Last year, they secured commitments from top-tier recruits early in the cycle, only to see many decommit and join other programs. The fear among analysts is that history could repeat itself, with elite recruits exploring other options if USC’s struggles continue.
The Instability of USC’s Recruiting Landscape
While USC’s current recruiting class includes a mix of California talent and players from other key regions, the consistency needed to build a stable program remains uncertain. \
Analysts have pointed out that the Trojans’ failure to lock down local prospects, particularly in Southern California, has hindered their ability to establish a strong recruiting base. The state has historically produced top-tier talent, but many top recruits have chosen programs like Georgia, Oregon, and Alabama over USC.
Moreover, the transfer portal has been both a blessing and a curse for Riley. While they’ve gained some valuable players, they’ve also lost key contributors to rival programs, further destabilizing their roster. For example, Emmanuel Pregnon, a standout lineman who transferred to Oregon from Wyoming, was a significant loss that underscored USC’s struggle to maintain roster depth.
The Quarterback Question Looms Large
USC has built its identity around elite quarterback play, from Matt Leinart to Caleb Williams. However, as the Caleb Williams era concludes, uncertainty surrounds who will take over.
Jaden Maiava and other potential successors lack the proven experience fans are accustomed to seeing under center. Analysts noted that, unlike previous years when USC could rely on a star quarterback, the absence of a clear leader may impact both team performance and recruiting efforts.
Without a definitive answer at quarterback, USC’s once-feared offense now faces questions about whether it can maintain its reputation for explosive playmaking. Analysts expressed concerns that without a strong, reliable quarterback, recruits might question the stability and long-term success of Riley’s program.
Can Lincoln Riley Turn It Around?
Critics argue that Lincoln Riley’s teams at USC have shown a downward trend each season, and that the program’s inconsistent performance could drive away potential recruits. Some even claim that USC’s lack of competitiveness in major matchups has diminished the “fear factor” that once defined the Trojans. As the program moves into the Big Ten, the pressure to perform will only intensify.
For Riley and USC, the next few seasons will be pivotal. Can the Trojans retain their promising 2026 class, stabilize their quarterback situation, and re-establish themselves as a dominant force in college football? If not, the struggles that have plagued USC in recent years may continue, casting further doubt on Riley’s ability to lead the program back to national prominence.
