$110 million head coach faces major pressure ahead of next college football season

The 2025-2026 college football coaching carousel saw an unprecedented level of activity, with at least 15 Power Four programs changing head coaches between September and December. This flurry of changes is expected to result in a quieter offseason for coaching moves, although some programs remain dissatisfied with their current head coaches as they enter 2026.

Among the coaches to watch for potential movement in the upcoming cycle is Lincoln Riley of USC. Despite a strong reputation as an offensive strategist and a history of success at Oklahoma, Riley faces pressure following a 9-4 season. USC's performance has been under scrutiny, particularly its defense, which has struggled since Riley's arrival. This led to the dismissal of defensive coordinator Alex Grinch after a disappointing 2023 season.

Riley's tenure at USC began after leaving Oklahoma in 2021, taking quarterback Caleb Williams and others with him. His first season at USC in 2022 saw the team win 11 games and Williams secure the Heisman Trophy,