Riley Faces Questions After USC’s Wisconsin Loss

Riley said USC had 15 chances to make explosive plays in its 24-7 defeat at Wisconsin on October 24, but failed to convert them. The loss dropped the Trojans to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in Big Ten play. Speaking on October 26, he said long fields and a lack of big gains made scoring difficult, while the offense and special teams had their worst performance of the season.

Riley said quarterback Jayden Maiava made some strong plays but was not as sharp as usual. He described the offensive struggles as a team-wide problem, saying the different position groups did not come together. He added that the players responded with a good practice and had shifted their focus forward.

USC hosts No. 2 Ohio State next. Riley called the Buckeyes explosive and praised their playmakers and defense, saying USC would need a complete performance. He said the Trojans would vary their approach against receiver Jeremiah Smith, while acknowledging Ohio State has other threats. Starting quarterback Julian Sayin is out, and Riley said the situation would be an important factor.

The upcoming game has also intensified discussion of Riley’s job security. Dan Patrick described it as potentially the biggest game of Riley’s career and raised the possibility of Riley moving to TCU after the season. Patrick said a source he consulted considered TCU a possibility, but the Horned Frogs’ head-coaching job is not open: Sonny Dykes remains in place after agreeing to a multiyear extension in April.

TCU is 3-4 overall and 1-3 in Big 12 play. USC entered the season with the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class but has yet to reach the College Football Playoff under Riley. The report cited a potential $70 million buyout as a major question surrounding his future. Ohio State is listed as a 6.5-point favorite for the game at the Coliseum, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.