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Lincoln Riley buyout is prohibitive - so USC, Jen Cohen must reduce it

Following another self-inflicted defeat against Oregon, pressure is mounting on USC football coach Lincoln Riley. Athletic director Jennifer Cohen faces the difficult task of managing his eventual departure, though immediate termination is unlikely while the program awaits a third loss that would eliminate them from playoff contention.

A primary obstacle to making a change right away is Riley's steep severance package, which is estimated between seventy and seventy-two million dollars. Cohen will need to engage with major financial contributors to negotiate a lower figure, ensuring the university can afford a top-tier successor after five seasons under the current staff without a playoff appearance.

Meanwhile, Gary Patterson remains on board in an advisory capacity to assist the program through this challenging period.

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