UCF has reportedly inquired about the availability of USC coach Lincoln Riley as it searches for Gus Malzahn’s replacement. However, sources say there is no indication Riley is interested in leaving USC. Riley is three seasons into a 10-year contract with USC worth $10 million per year, making it a costly move for any interested party.
Representatives from UCF reached out to Riley’s camp last weekend to gauge his interest in moving, but there has been no indication of his desire to leave USC. Firing Riley would cost USC about $90 million, and if he were to leave for another school, he would owe USC nothing.
Despite UCF’s interest, it would be challenging for the school to replicate Riley’s deal with USC. USC’s current athletic director inherited Riley and his expensive contract, making moving on from the coach a difficult decision. Riley has a 25-14 record with USC, but results have been trending downward in recent seasons.
After an initial successful season, USC has struggled in the Big Ten, with recruiting not meeting expectations. The program’s future under Riley is uncertain, as USC continues to regress on the field. The departure of key figures involved in Riley’s hiring adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future with the Trojans.
UCF, which recently lost Malzahn to Florida State, is looking for a new head coach to lead the program. Despite expressing interest in Riley, the school is considering multiple candidates to fill the vacant position. The Knights are prioritizing finding the right fit to lead the program into the next phase of its development.
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