USC vs Oklahoma: Evaluating Year 3 Progress for Riley and Venables

In recent college football seasons, the movement of Lincoln Riley from Oklahoma to USC has raised concerns about the future of both schools. After his unexpected departure, neither program seems to be in an advantageous position. As of the 2024 season, Riley's Trojans have recorded a disappointing 3-4 record in their first season within the Big Ten, having lost three consecutive games while struggling with leads and consistently falling short in critical moments of matches. In a press conference, Riley acknowledged unfortunate breaks as a factor but emphasized the need for improvement in their performance. Conversely, Oklahoma, under Brent Venables, faced challenges in his initial year, concluding with a 6-7 record. Despite improvements in the subsequent season with a 10-3 record, Venables' current squad is facing setbacks due to struggles in building an effective offensive line through player recruitment. These issues may jeopardize the commitment of valuable quarterback recruits essential for sustaining the program's future success. The financial investments in coaching suggest that both programs are not likely to rush into making changes despite their struggles. Venables' contract is substantial, running through 2029 with a significant buyout clause, making immediate changes less plausible. With historical performance standards in mind, both programs confront significant challenges moving forward. Addressing these obstacles while simultaneously managing expectations from fans and stakeholders will be crucial for a return to their esteemed status in college football.