The pressure is mounting for USC and Lincoln Riley.
Former Ohio State Star Sets Clear Expectations for Lincoln Riley originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Former Ohio State Star Sets Clear Expectations for Lincoln Riley
Anthony Schlegel, former Ohio State linebacker and strength coach, isn’t mincing words when it comes to USC coach Lincoln Riley’s outlook in 2025. During an appearance on "The Bobby Carpenter Show," Schlegel made it clear that the pressure is on Riley to deliver.
“You have to win this year. He has, too,” Schlegel said bluntly when asked about Riley’s future in Los Angeles.
Schlegel, known for his no-nonsense approach as both a player and coach, questioned why Riley’s Trojans have continued to underperform despite having top-tier talent on the roster. “There is that expectation. A coach with the pedigree that Lincoln Riley has with Heisman Trophies, then what is missing?”
.@schlegelvellie thinks it's a put-up or shut-up year for Lincoln Riley
— Bobby Carpenter Show (@BobbyCarpShow) July 12, 2025
"You have to win this year. He has, too."
Presented by @drinkgaragebeerhttps://t.co/1ZudHR5Qo7pic.twitter.com/wb1Hy5r0sy
That question looms large after a disappointing 8–5 season in 2023, which included defensive meltdowns and a late-season collapse despite the presence of 2022 Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams at quarterback. Things took another step back in 2024 as the Trojans finished with a 7-6 record.
Riley made a major staff move by hiring D’Anton Lynn away from UCLA to fix the defensive issues last offseason, but Schlegel still isn’t convinced that’s enough long-term.
“Let’s make a change, they got better. You had a Heisman Trophy quarterback and [the team] still kinda sucked. So, why? Is it the team? What’s the culture like in the building?”
Schlegel also wondered aloud about player development under Riley’s staff: “If you got the talent, are they not being developed? I don’t know what it is, but you’re the head man.”
USC has stepped up its efforts in recruiting, accumulating the No. 1 class in 2026, per Rivals. However, that class is still a year away from being on campus.
“This is the year,” he said. “No more excuses. It’s put up or shut up.”
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
