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USC coach Lincoln Riley sets clear expectation of excellence entering 2026 season
TL;DR
USC coach Lincoln Riley emphasizes the need for excellence as he enters his fifth season, expressing optimism about the team's future. He highlights the importance of retention, particularly with quarterback Jayden Maiva returning for his redshirt senior season.
Key points
- Lincoln Riley enters his fifth season as USC coach
- Riley emphasizes the need for excellence
- Retention of key players is crucial for success
- Quarterback Jayden Maiva returns for his senior season
- USC aims to enter a championship window
Mentioned in this story
Lincoln Riley
USC TrojansJayden Maiva
USC coach Lincoln Riley sets clear expectation of excellence entering 2026 season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The USC Trojans remain one of the few Big Ten teams for which the jury is still out on their standing amongst college football's elite programs.
But for coach Lincoln Riley, his fifth season leading USC has the makings of a special one, he told On3.
“Taking this over, you knew you had to go fight like hell just to try to get this window opened,” Riley said. “And we’re at a point right now where there’s a lot to be excited about and a lot in front of us. It’s been a lot of work for a lot of people, a lot of commitment from a lot of people to get there, and it should be a lot of fun these next few years.”
But a major key for the Trojans is retention, which Riley was able to latch onto when quarterback Jayden Maiva returned for his redshirt senior season.
“He has made as much progress in two years as, honestly, any quarterback that I can remember having,” Riley said. “I still think there’s still so much more room for growth with this kid, and that’s what’s exciting. He’s played some really good ball, but I still think we’ve seen just some flashes of how good this guy really can be.”
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Q&A
What are Lincoln Riley's expectations for the USC Trojans in the 2026 season?
Lincoln Riley expects excellence and believes the team is entering a championship window as they prepare for the 2026 season.
How important is player retention for USC's success in the upcoming season?
Player retention is crucial for USC's success, as highlighted by the return of quarterback Jayden Maiva for his redshirt senior season.
What has Lincoln Riley said about the progress of the USC football program?
Lincoln Riley has expressed excitement about the progress made in the USC football program, noting significant work and commitment from many individuals.