USC trails 6-2 as Riley defends job before Ohio State

USC enters Saturday's game against No. 2 Ohio State with a 6-2 record and no victories against ranked opponents this season. Lincoln Riley addressed growing questions about his future at the program during a press conference on Tuesday. He stated that his commitment to the Trojans has not changed since he left Oklahoma to take the job.

The Trojans dropped their last contest to unranked Wisconsin. That result leaves the team's College Football Playoff outlook in jeopardy. The upcoming match against the Buckeyes represents a critical test. A loss to a backup quarterback in Big Ten play would further strain the coaching staff's position.

Riley acknowledged the scrutiny surrounding his tenure. He noted that three Power Four coaching positions are currently vacant, with more openings expected within the next month. He emphasized that he walked away from a successful setup at Oklahoma to build a program in Los Angeles. 'I came here because I believe in this place, and none of that has changed whatsoever,' Riley said.

The coach recalled his first season in Norman, Oklahoma, where he faced intense criticism after an early defeat. 'The first loss I had at Oklahoma, I didn't think I was gonna be able to get out of bed the next morning,' Riley recalled. He added that he learned quickly that letting the highs and lows control him was the wrong approach for the job.

Performance trends have not aligned with the program's historical expectations. Riley won 11 games in his inaugural season in 2022 but has not reached double-digit victories since. The team has not appeared in the College Football Playoff during his four subsequent seasons. Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen, who did not hire Riley, called the relationship 'fantastic.' Riley described her as 'a tremendous AD' who has been supportive of the football program's development.

A victory over Ohio State would extend the Trojans' playoff window and provide a major win against a top-tier opponent. Riley views the game as an opportunity to solidify his standing with fans and administrators. The next news conference is scheduled for the day following the contest, where additional questions regarding the coaching staff's future are anticipated.