The college football season approaches with several coaches facing make-or-break moments this fall.
Two Big Ten coaches stand out as facing significant pressure. CBS Sports reports that USC’s Lincoln Riley and Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell enter critical seasons.
Riley appears better positioned for success right now.
“At most programs, a 9-4 season like 2025’s finish would generate optimism. At USC, it simply raises the next question: When is the breakthrough coming? That’s the reality Riley faces entering his fifth year with the Trojans,”
Brad Crawford wrote.
The Trojans have been close to College Football Playoff berths. Wisconsin hasn’t reached that level under Fickell.
Crawford identifies a key problem with the Badgers’ struggles.
“The biggest reason Fickell’s tenure has never taken off is simple: Wisconsin has lost its identity. For decades, the Badgers won with a formula that was easy to understand through a physicality-first mindset. They developed offensive linemen, dominated the line of scrimmage, ran the football and played hard-nosed defensively.”
USC faces a different challenge. The Trojans need a postseason berth this season.
Riley’s reputation hangs in the balance.
“A playoff berth would validate the rebuild and reestablish USC as a national contender. Another season falling short would intensify questions about whether one of the sport’s brightest offensive minds can deliver championships in the Big Ten era. At USC, good is never good enough. And Riley needs to be elite this fall to make it stick.”
The word “elite” continues to follow Riley. If the Trojans can’t reach the playoffs, this season might be his best opportunity.
September will provide answers for both coaches.
