CFBSep 26
Unbeaten USC faces defining Oregon test as pressure builds on Lincoln Riley
The Trojans are 4-0, but a visit from No.
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A bigger test at the Coliseum
USC’s unbeaten start has created momentum without settling the questions surrounding Lincoln Riley. With No. 20 Oregon visiting the Coliseum on Saturday, the Trojans have an opportunity to deliver the kind of significant victory their coach increasingly needs. Riley is in his fifth season at USC and has yet to take the program to the College Football Playoff. The promise of an 11-3 finish with Caleb Williams in 2022 has given way to scrutiny over results, staff changes and the pace of the rebuild. Riley has embraced those expectations rather than argued against them. USC now has a deeper roster, the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class and upgraded facilities, leaving the focus squarely on performance.
Development begins to pay off
The Trojans have shifted toward high school recruiting and player development after Riley acknowledged that leaning heavily on transfers following his debut season was a mistake. USC entered this season with an FBS-leading 15 returning starters, including nine on offense. Quarterback Jayden Maiava is in his third season in Riley’s system, while young receivers have quickly become important contributors. Freshman Trent Mosley has produced 255 receiving yards and four touchdowns, though an injury could keep him out against Oregon. Fellow freshman Kayden Dixon-Wyatt has added 258 yards and two touchdowns, giving the offense another emerging option.
Patterson adds another variable
The defensive overhaul carries its own stakes. After D’Anton Lynn left for Penn State, Riley hired former TCU coach Gary Patterson despite his absence from game-day coaching since 2021. Against Oregon, USC must show that its encouraging stretches can outweigh the inconsistency still evident during its unbeaten start.
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