Lincoln Riley Denies Interest in Baylor Coaching Job
The USC coach reaffirmed his commitment to the program following speculation sparked by recent losses.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you trust your local college football team's leadership during a losing season?
USC head coach Lincoln Riley has publicly addressed his job status, dismissing rumors linking him to the vacant head coaching position at Baylor. Riley affirmed his professional relationship with USC Athletic Director Jen Cohen during a media session on October 27, 2026.
Why it matters
The denial comes after a challenging 24-7 loss to Wisconsin, which prompted questions regarding Riley's security at USC. The speculation intensified following the news that Baylor dismissed Dave Aranda from his role after a separate loss on October 24.
USC currently holds a 6-2 record following a recent 17-point margin of defeat against Wisconsin. The team is now preparing to host Ohio State at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The players
Lincoln Riley
He serves as the head coach for the USC Trojans football team.
Jen Cohen
She serves as the athletic director for USC and is the first female to hold the position in the university's history.
Dave Aranda
He was recently fired as the head coach of Baylor University.
The details
Lincoln Riley addressed his standing within the program and his collaboration with Jen Cohen, the first female athletic director in USC history, during a press conference. He explicitly refuted any intention to depart Los Angeles for other coaching vacancies.
Timeline
August 2023: Jen Cohen began her tenure as USC athletic director.
October 24, 2026: USC lost to Wisconsin, and Baylor fired Dave Aranda.
October 27, 2026: Lincoln Riley addressed the media regarding his status.
October 31, 2026: USC plays Ohio State at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Season Trajectory
This cycle of coaching speculation often follows the mid-season firing of Dave Aranda at Baylor, which creates immediate pressure on high-profile programs. The narrative surrounding the USC coaching staff directly impacts the intensity of the upcoming matchup against Ohio State.
With a 6-2 record, USC must quickly pivot focus to their upcoming game against No. 2 ranked Ohio State. Success in this high-profile matchup is critical to shifting the current season narrative away from recent losses and personnel speculation.
The takeaway
Maintaining stability in leadership is often prioritized by programs during mid-season volatility to ensure competitive focus remains on the field. Coaches frequently utilize press availability to address external rumors and refocus attention on upcoming opponent preparation.
What happens next
USC is scheduled to play Ohio State at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the team, visit Los Angeles Football.
Live Poll
Do you trust your local college football team's leadership during a losing season?
