Photo via Yahoo Sports

USC coach Lincoln Riley backs suspended linebacker: ‘Like a son’

Southern California head coach Lincoln Riley recently defended his star linebacker following a controversial one-game suspension stemming from an unsportsmanlike celebration during a recent contest. The defender was penalized after appearing to gloat near a concussed opposing quarterback, an incident that prompted swift disciplinary action from the athletic department.

Riley admitted he failed to witness the incident in real time but emphasized his deep bond with the player, comparing the athlete to a family member while acknowledging the severity of the situation. The Trojans previously suffered a 41-27 defeat in that matchup against the visiting Ducks, a loss that added further scrutiny to the program's overall trajectory and culture.

Up nextCollege Football· 10h ago

USC’s Lincoln Riley gives silver lining about Oregon game that Trojans fans won’t want to hear