Photo via Yahoo Sports

Lincoln Riley Joke Goes Viral After College Football Playoff Expands To 24 Teams

The College Football Playoff is set to expand to a 24-team format starting in 2027, according to reports, with preliminary agreements already in place. The new structure will include all Power 5 conference champions, the top-ranked Group of 5 team, and 19 additional at-large selections, significantly broadening the postseason field.

While the deal remains unofficial, the announcement has sparked playful speculation among fans, particularly targeting high-profile coaches like Lincoln Riley of USC. A viral joke on social media dubbed the expansion the ‘Lincoln Riley Act,’ referencing the Trojans’ inconsistent playoff appearances under his leadership.

Despite USC’s current 6-1 record and playoff contention, Riley faces a grueling stretch against Wisconsin, Ohio State, Indiana, Maryland, and UCLA in the coming weeks—any stumble could reignite the humor at his expense. The expansion, if finalized, would mark a major shift in college football’s postseason landscape, though the CFP has emphasized ongoing discussions with ESPN regarding media rights and future format details.

The lighthearted banter underscores the pressure on Riley, whose program has yet to secure a playoff berth despite strong moments. Fans, even those rooting for USC, have embraced the joke as a way to highlight the unpredictability of the current system.

Should USC secure a playoff spot under the existing 12-team format, the ‘Lincoln Riley Act’ meme may fade—but for now, it serves as a reminder of the high stakes in college football’s evolving postseason structure.

Up nextCollege Football· 2h ago

USC President Gives 5-Word Response to Lincoln Riley's $70M Future as Trojans Urged to Set Clear Ultimatum