Lincoln Riley Analyzes USC’s Challenges in Comparison to Powerhouses Like Ohio State, Michigan, and Oregon
LOS ANGELES – As the USC Trojans continue their 2024 season under head coach Lincoln Riley, questions about the program’s trajectory persist. Despite USC’s illustrious football history and the recent arrival of Riley, one of college football’s most innovative offensive minds, there’s a noticeable gap when comparing USC to other top programs like Ohio State, Michigan, and Oregon.
Riley, in a recent press conference, offered insight into why USC hasn’t yet reached the same consistent elite status as these powerhouse programs. His analysis touched on several critical factors that highlight the difference between the Trojans and the likes of Ohio State and Michigan, both of whom boast more consistent success in recent years.
Development and Stability
Riley pointed out that programs like Ohio State and Michigan have built long-term success on stability. “They’ve had the ability to sustain winning for many years, building a foundation of development, both in terms of player personnel and program culture,” Riley said. He emphasized that these schools have maintained continuity in coaching staffs and systems, allowing them to fine-tune their identity and build depth across all positions.
In contrast, USC has undergone multiple coaching changes and periods of instability over the last decade. “We’re rebuilding a program that hasn’t had the same level of consistency,” Riley noted. “That kind of turnover can slow development, and it takes time to restore that foundation.”
Recruiting and Regional Competition
While USC consistently lands top-tier recruits, Riley acknowledged the unique challenges of recruiting in Southern California. The state is rich in football talent, but it’s also heavily competed for by schools from across the country, particularly by Pac-12 rival Oregon and national powers like Alabama and Ohio State, who have successfully pulled players out of the West Coast.
“Oregon has done a great job recruiting nationally, and they’ve built a brand that attracts players from all over,” Riley said. “Ohio State and Michigan benefit from being in the Midwest where their pipeline of talent is established, and the competition regionally is different. We’re working to lock down our backyard, but it’s a challenge.”
Facilities and Investment
Riley also highlighted the importance of facilities and program investment. While USC has made strides in upgrading its infrastructure, he noted that programs like Oregon have become renowned for their state-of-the-art facilities, thanks in part to significant financial backing from Nike co-founder Phil Knight.
“The resources that programs like Oregon have are game-changers. They can offer things that few programs can, and that plays a role in both recruiting and player development,” Riley explained. “At USC, we’ve made great strides, but we’re still catching up in certain areas.”
Conference Dynamics and Playoff Positioning
Another key factor Riley mentioned was the difference in conference dynamics. With Ohio State and Michigan playing in the Big Ten, they benefit from competing in a conference that traditionally receives more respect from the College Football Playoff committee. “The Big Ten and SEC are positioned well in terms of the perception around the playoff,” Riley said. “We’re fighting to get back to that level where the Pac-12 can be seen as a premier conference.”
Though USC is set to join the Big Ten in 2024, Riley noted that the Trojans still have ground to make up when it comes to competing for national championships year in and year out. “It’s about proving we can consistently be in that conversation. Joining the Big Ten will help, but it’s only part of the equation.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Riley remains optimistic about USC’s potential to join the ranks of college football’s elite once again. “We have the pieces in place,” he said. “The tradition, the location, the talent—it’s all there. It’s just about putting it together consistently. We’re building something that can compete with the best, but it’s a process.”
With the Trojans moving to the Big Ten next season and recruiting momentum picking up, Riley’s vision for the future is clear. While USC may not yet be at the level of Ohio State, Michigan, or Oregon, Riley believes the program is on the right track to return to its former glory.
