Lincoln Riley reiterates plans to be at USC for 2026 college football season
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When it comes to his status in college football, Lincoln Riley is like an off-brand Lane Kiffin. An impressive offensive mind, you never quite know what he’s thinking. He has reached the College Football Playoff before — which Kiffin is presumably about to do for the first time — but hasn’t ever won a truly massive game. And, as his move from Oklahoma to USC showed, he could up and leave even when things are good.
There’s plenty of drama surrounding Kiffin these days as Florida and LSU try to poach him from Ole Miss. Riley seemingly doesn’t have those entities courting him, but there have been whispers that he’s exploring a move out of Southern California. On Tuesday night, though, he tried pouring cold water on the hot stove.
“Oh yeah, 100%,” Riley told reporters when asked if he planned to be a Trojan in 2026. “Like I said before, I’m right where I’m supposed to be… I love being here.”
Riley is enjoying his second-best season at USC since becoming its head coach in 2022. The Trojans (8-3, 6-2 Big Ten) could win 10 games if they’re able to beat the UCLA Bruins this weekend and win their bowl game. However, as previous actions show, reaching that mark doesn’t guarantee Riley will stay in town. USC and UCLA face off at 7:30 p.m. E.T. on Saturday night (NBC).
