Overview
- TCU defeated USC 30-27 in overtime, ending on a third-and-20, 35-yard touchdown after multiple missed tackles.
- USC fielded a depleted lineup because of opt-outs, injuries and transfers, with notable absences including receivers Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane and several defensive starters.
- D’Anton Lynn accepted Penn State’s defensive coordinator job before the game and did not coach, and co-DC and defensive line coach Eric Henderson handled USC’s play-calling.
- Riley said he feels “fantastic” about the trajectory and described the vacancy as an “extremely coveted” job as USC opens its coordinator search.
- Commentary placed Riley on the hot seat entering 2026 even as USC points to a No. 1 recruiting class and a new training facility as reasons for optimism.