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Paul Finebaum Believes Major College Football Program Is 'Limping' Into New Conference
By Zach McKinnell,
9 hours ago
USC has failed to meet the lofty expectations set when head coach Lincoln Riley accepted the job before the 2022 season. The Trojans finished last season 8-5 (5-4 Pac 12) but lost five of their final six games in the regular season.
ESPN's Paul Finebaum has been critical of Riley's coaching during his two-year tenure at USC. During an appearance on The Berry Tramel Show , Finebaum stated that Riley and the Trojans are limping into a competitive Big Ten conference next season.
"Who's in better shape right now? Oklahoma or Southern Cal?" Finebaum asked. "Oklahoma just rewarded a coach (and) is going to the SEC, a league Lincoln Riley did not want any part of, and now he's limping into a very tough league... the Big Ten. Quite frankly, Berry, I don't know what his future looks like. I mean, I think it looks pretty bleak."
Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley watches game action against the Arizona Wildcats
Gary A&period Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
USC's problem started with defensive consistency, which has emerged as a common theme under Riley. The Trojans struggled defensively, ranking No. 121 nationally in scoring defense last season. USC hired UCLA defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn, who led a Bruins' defense that ranked No. 11 nationally in total defense.
The Trojans will also have to replace Caleb Williams at quarterback next season. Miller Moss is expected to lead the Trojans' offense after an electric performance against Louisville in the Holiday Bowl. Moss was named the Most Valuable Player, throwing 372 yards and six touchdowns.
It remains to be seen if USC will be able to compete in the Big Ten next season, but Riley's job security could be questioned if the Trojans fail to compete for the College Football Playoff.
USC opens the 2024 season against LSU in the Vegas Kickoff Classic at Allegiant Stadium on Sept. 1. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
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