As the college football landscape continues to evolve, USC head coach Lincoln Riley is keeping a close eye on the shifting dynamics. The introduction of the transfer portal, coupled with the impact of NIL deals, has already transformed the game. Now, with revenue sharing and conference realignment on the horizon, Riley believes the sport is heading towards a new era that resembles the NFL.
Understanding the New Norms
“The world understands that in the NFL, sometimes players make decisions to leave. Sometimes, players get cut. Sometimes there’s not cap room,” Riley said. “The world understands that because they’re used to it in the NFL, you know? I think all of us — those in it and those outside — are getting used to this is college football now, and we are trending certainly more in that direction, heavily in that direction.”
This shift in mentality is crucial for everyone involved in college football. The game is no longer just about loyalty and long-term commitments; it’s about adapting to a fast-paced environment where change is constant. “There’s going to be tough decisions on both sides and that’s why you can’t get too emotionally attached to it. They’re going to happen. Teams are going to adjust, players are going to adjust, and everybody’s going to move on. And that’s just the way of the world right now,” he added.
Tough Times for USC
However, this transition hasn’t been easy for Riley and the Trojans. Following the end of USC’s regular season, the team faced significant losses as standout players like quarterback Miller Moss, defensive lineman Bear Alexander, and wide receiver Duce Robinson entered the transfer portal in search of new opportunities.
These departures are not just minor setbacks. Moss, who was the Trojans’ starting quarterback for most of the season, is now considered the fourth-best available QB in the transfer portal, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. Similarly, Alexander ranks as the fourth highest-rated defensive lineman available, making his exit a notable blow to USC’s defensive line.
Riley’s Response: A Focus on Recruitment
With such significant talent leaving, Lincoln Riley faces the challenge of rebuilding his roster. After all, USC cannot afford another disappointing season like the previous 6-6 record or, worse yet, a losing record in the Big Ten. The pressure is on, but Riley has a track record of successfully bringing in top talent through the transfer portal. In fact, USC secured Top-3 transfer classes in both the 2022 and 2023 offseasons and was able to reel in the No. 22 transfer class in 2024.
But Riley isn’t sitting back and waiting for the right players to come to him. He’s actively seeking out talent to fill the gaps left by departing stars. Reports indicate that he and his coaching staff are hosting at least five high-profile transfers over the next two days. These prospects range from SEC talents to standout players from Group of Five programs, showcasing Riley’s commitment to enhancing the roster.
The Future of College Football
As college football continues to evolve, the implications of these changes are profound. The landscape is shifting towards a model that may resemble professional leagues more closely than ever before. With revenue sharing and conference realignment becoming the norm, how will this affect the traditional rivalries and the overall spirit of college football?
Riley’s insights reflect a broader trend that many coaches and players are beginning to recognize. The emotional ties that once defined college football are being replaced by a more transactional approach, where decisions are made based on immediate benefits rather than long-term loyalty. This raises questions about the future of college sports as we know it. Will fans still feel the same passion for their teams if the players are constantly changing? Will the spirit of competition remain intact?
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Lincoln Riley remains optimistic about the future. He understands that adaptation is key in this new era of college football. “We’re all learning to navigate this together,” he noted. “It’s about finding the right balance and making sure we’re prepared for whatever comes next.”
As the Trojans gear up for the upcoming season, fans can expect a whirlwind of activity in the transfer portal. With Riley at the helm, there’s no doubt that USC will be a team to watch. The stakes are high, and the pressure is on, but one thing is certain: college football is in for an exciting ride.
