College Football Analysts Changing Opinions on USC Trojans, Lincoln Riley?

Colin Cowherd Kept USC On His Radar Last Weekend

Cowherd used his platform to discuss the reality of NIL and revenue sharing, more specifically how it protects coaches from losing their jobs. Cowherd used Riley as an example, whose expensive buyout adds a layer of protection to his career in South Central.

"Lincoln Riley, I know the number, he’s not going anywhere!" Cowherd said on an episode of The Herd in July. "They just spent $300 million on facilities. $18 million on NIL. He’s got an $80 million buyout! So, I think NIL actually protects the staff. You probably get a year or two more than you used to."

What's been said and known is Riley's tenure in Los Angeles has not been perfect. However, his football intelligence and recruiting expertise has helped develop the Trojans in a positive manner, building a bright future for USC.

Riley currently holds the No. 1 recruiting class in 2026 and drew some of this season's most talented players from the transfer portal, one being Hutchinson Community College running back Waymond Jordan.

Jordan was the No. 1 JUCO running back from the portal and named the 2024 NJCAA Player of the Year. On Saturday against the Bears, Jordan scored his first career touchdown in a Trojan's jersey.

Riley's Roster Depth Does Not Support Cowherds Initial Thoughts

What Cowherd also discussed earlier this year was the lack of skill on Riley's roster, noting the Trojans had very few impact players.

“It’s the only time in Lincoln Riley’s career I don’t like their quarterback situation at all. The most talented kid’s a true freshman.” Cowherd said. “He’s not going to go in the Big Ten and spin it and be dominant. And the kid that’s starting, Lincoln, likes him more than I do. The UNLV kid — I think, you know, I think he’s a gamer, but his judgment — um, he just makes too many mistakes for me, and Lincoln doesn’t like that.”

Quarterback Jayden Maiava was one of the most impressive players in Saturday's performance, with backup quarterback Husan Longstreet not far behind.

Maiava finished the day with 15 of 18 completions, 295 yards through the air and two touchdowns, a hopeful performance for the signal-caller's second season with USC.

Longstreet's debut with the Trojans was effective, he finished a perfect 9-of-9 through the air for 69 yards with one passing touchdown, and also ran for a score.

The Trojans return to the Coliseum to host coach Clay Helton and the Georgia Southern Golden Eagles. The week 2 matchup marks the first visit for Helton since his tenure with USC.