{
  "id": 12505845,
  "title": "USC Legend Makes Feelings Clear on Lincoln Riley Ahead of Penn State Game",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/usc-legend-makes-feelings-clear-on-lincoln-riley-ahead-of-penn-state",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T00:35:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/ncaa/usc-legend-makes-feelings-clear-on-lincoln-riley-ahead-of-penn-state-game-12532804"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "USC's Carson Palmer, a former NFL quarterback and USC Heisman winner, defended head coach Lincoln Riley ahead of the upcoming game against Penn State. Palmer, who joined Colin Cowherd on Tuesday, expressed his strong belief in Riley and the team. He emphasized that USC is currently 5-1 and ranked No. 19, with wins over several strong opponents like San Jose State, Fresno State, Louisiana, Rutgers, and Washington. The loss to Oregon on September 26 still weighs heavily on Riley's mind, but Palmer believes the team's talent and youth will soon come to the forefront. He suggested that it takes time for freshmen to adapt to the pace and lifestyle of college football. Riley, who signed a 10-year, $110 million deal with USC in 2022, has not yet met expectations with a 11-3 debut season, 8-5 in 2023, 7-6 in 2024, and 9-4 last season. Despite the struggles, Palmer and Palmer stand by Riley, anticipating a brighter future for the team.",
  "summary": "USC legend Carson Palmer pushed back on the Lincoln Riley hot seat narrative before the Trojans' trip to Penn State.",
  "key_points": [
    "USC quarterback Carson Palmer defends coach Lincoln Riley ahead of Penn State game.",
    "USC team 5-1 record, No. 19 ranking, strong opponent wins.",
    "Palmer believes Riley's talent and youth will shine in future games."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Carson Palmer's public endorsement of Lincoln Riley signals a show of confidence in the coach from a respected figure, potentially easing pressure on Riley as he navigates a crucial game against Penn State.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}