Paul Finebaum names college football program with real "problem" at head coach

College football analyst Paul Finebaum believes the USC Trojans have a huge problem in the head coaching role ahead of the 2025 season.

Lincoln Riley was brought in by USC to revitalize the program after years of struggle. However, the Trojans have failed to live up to expectations the past couple of seasons.

On “The Paul Finebaum Show” on Monday, Finebaum said Riley's tenure has been unsuccessful.

"They went out and hired Lincoln Riley expecting that to turn the program around," Finebaum said. "Caleb Williams transferred from Oklahoma. Outside of one good year, Lincoln Riley has been a bust at USC. I think that's the problem. He can't seem to get it turned around."

Riley holds a 26-14 record over three seasons at USC. He began with an impressive 11-3 debut season (2022). This was followed by an 8-5 record in his second year and a 7-6 finish this past season.

Paul Finebaum believes Lincoln Riley is on the hot seat ahead of the 2025 season

Following an underwhelming display in 2024, Paul Finebaum believes Lincoln Riley's job at USC will be under significant threat if he fails again in 2025. The analyst pointed at the dwindling situation at the program, especially in this offseason.

"I think it's smoking hot," Finebaum said. "Because not only has he had two bad seasons in a row, and this season was even worse than last season, if you keep up with it, he's losing player after player to the portal. Nobody wants to play for this guy anymore. He has lost his magic."

Riley has struggled to replicate his performance at Oklahoma in his current jọb. He took the helm at USC following a dominant five-year stretch with the Sooners, where he amassed a remarkable 55-10 record, secured four Big 12 championships, and earned three playoff berths.

However, he has struggled to recreate the same success with the Trojans.