Riley Discusses Scheduling Challenges for USC in Big Ten
- Lincoln Riley, head coach of USC, expressed concerns that the historic USC-Notre Dame rivalry might become less significant in future seasons.
- He acknowledged Alabama's effective scheduling, suggesting that strong match-ups are essential for maintaining the excitement in college football.
- Riley’s comments reflect the shifting landscape in college football, emphasizing the need to adapt to new dynamics.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley recently spoke to reporters about the complexities of scheduling as the Trojans transition into the competitive Big Ten Conference. He emphasized the need for a strategic approach to non-conference games, drawing comparisons to Alabama's successful scheduling philosophy. "‘Bama was ahead of the curve for years... They didn’t schedule for their fans – they scheduled to win championships," Riley noted, highlighting the importance of prioritizing championship aspirations over fan entertainment. The longstanding rivalry between USC and Notre Dame has come under scrutiny as Riley considers the implications of scheduling marquee opponents. He acknowledged that while fans desire thrilling matchups, the reality of competing for national titles may necessitate difficult decisions. "If you get in a position where you’ve got to make a decision on what’s best for SC to help us win a national championship vs. keeping that [rivalry]?" he questioned, indicating that the balance between tradition and competitiveness is delicate. Riley pointed out the stark contrast in win probabilities when scheduling tough opponents versus less formidable teams. He argued that opting for easier games could enhance player performance and overall team success. "The difference between a 50/50 game against Texas and a 95/5 game against Middle Tennessee State is massive," he explained, suggesting that a more favorable schedule could lead to a more achievable one or two-loss season. Ultimately, Riley's comments reflect a clear ambition: to position USC for playoff contention while navigating the challenges of a demanding schedule.