Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans faced a disappointing 2024 season, finishing with a 7-6 record after an initial win against No. 13 LSU. The previous year was also underwhelming, ending with an 8-5 record despite having Heisman winner Caleb Williams, leading to a combined 15-11 record over the last two seasons for Riley, who earned over $11.5 million in 2023. Despite recent struggles, USC is attracting top talent, with the No. 14 recruiting class for this year and the nation’s No. 1 class for 2026 as they prepare for the 2025 season opener against Missouri State.
