Lincoln Riley replacements: 5 coaches who could take charge of USC if current HC gets fired ft. Deion Sanders

Lincoln Riley is under intense pressure following USC's performance in the 2023 college football season. The Trojans finished 7-5 after an awful second half of the season.

With the program playing in the Big Ten this season, confidence is not high on the team among observers. This raises the possibility of Riley getting fired if the team fails to perform well.

Here’s a look at five potential replacements for Lincoln Riley if he gets fired at USC.

Five potential Lincoln Riley replacements at USC

#1, Deion Sanders

Big 12 media days. Source: Imagn

Deion Sanders had his first season in the Football Bowl Subdivision in 2023 following his hiring by Colorado. While the Buffaloes' outing was abysmal at 4-8, there's still a lot of hype around him.

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum has already touted Sanders for the USC job if Lincoln Riley gets fired at the end of the 2024 college football season. He believes Sanders is a good fit to lead the Trojans despite the unimpressive season he had in Boulder last season.

#2, Lance Leipold

Big 12 media days. Source: Imagn

Lance Leipold was seen as a candidate in many coaching searches this offseason. However, he remained at Kansas and will once again lead the team in the 2024 season.

Leipold would be a great fit for USC if they decide to move on from Lincoln Riley. He's been able to transform the Jayhawks into a potential contender within the Big 12 after inheriting a struggling program. He could be able to do something great with a bigger program like the Trojans.

#3, Lane Kiffin

SEC media days. Source: Imagn

Lane Kiffin has established himself as one of college football's top coaches since arriving at Ole Miss. He's been able to bring the program back to its feet.

Considering his exploits in the last four years, Kiffin makes a lot of sense for USC if Lincoln Riley loses his job. The Rebels are not only considered a contender for the SEC championship in 2024, they are touted for a spot in the College Football Playoff.

#4, Chris Klieman

Big 12 media days. Source: Imagn

Chris Klieman has had a noteworthy tenure at Kansas State. The coach led the Wildcats to bowl games in four of his five seasons, making them a force in the Big 12.

With eight or more wins in four of his seasons, Klieman could be a great option for USC if Lincoln Riley's era ends. As the Trojans aim to get back to the pinnacle of college football, he stands as a good choice to rebuild the program in the next phase.

#5, Jeff Brohm

Syndication: The Courier-Journal. Source: Imagn

Jeff Brohm has been outstanding over the last couple of years. His fantastic performance at Purdue got him the Louisville job, where he's also done well.

Brohm led the Cardinals to a 10-4 record last season, making an appearance in the ACC championship game. This presents him as a good option for USC if Lincoln Riley is fired. He has what it takes to elevate the Trojans back to the pinnacle of college football.