Paul Finebaum’s recent comments on Lincoln Riley’s future at USC are generating significant discussion in college football circles. Finebaum predicts that Riley’s tenure at USC might come to an end after the 2024 season, citing a perceived trend of player departures and questioning Riley’s ability to succeed at the program.
Finebaum acknowledges Riley’s reputation as a talented offensive coach but suggests that the current situation at USC does not bode well for him. He characterizes Riley’s potential departure from USC as possibly one of the most notable coaching failures in recent college football history, given Riley’s initial acclaim and the high expectations surrounding his hiring.
The transition of USC to the Big Ten adds another layer of challenge for Riley, according to Finebaum, who speculates on whether Riley can navigate this tougher conference environment successfully.
In essence, Finebaum’s prediction reflects a critical view of Riley’s tenure at USC thus far and anticipates potential outcomes for the upcoming season that could determine Riley’s future with the program. It remains to be seen how Riley and USC will perform in the face of these challenges during the 2024 season.