USC loses 27–13 to Indiana, dealing another blow to its College Football Playoff hopes and extending concerns about the Trojans’ road results versus strong opponents. After the defeat, USC head coach Lincoln Riley emphasizes belief and the idea that the team is nearing the level needed to beat elite competition.
Coverage across outlets centers on Riley’s reaction. CBS Sports highlights Riley’s message of “belief” and frames the loss as part of a continuing pattern on the road. Newsweek similarly reports Riley’s view that USC is close, stressing his promise to the team despite the setback.
Other coverage adds a sharper social reaction element. The Yahoo Sports piece focuses on fan responses during the game, including camera moments of Riley looking dejected and the resulting mocking. The New York Post also foregrounds criticism of Riley, pointing to comments from former USC player Keyshawn Johnson and portraying the loss as shedding further light on Riley’s tenure.
