Paul Finebaum Dismisses Usc Amidst L.A.'S Sports Frenzy

Paul Finebaum's Take on USC's Visibility

ESPN's college football guru, Paul Finebaum, has spent a decade dissecting the gridiron scene, but it seems one storied program is slipping under the radar – USC. Despite a fine run this season, Finebaum argues that the Trojans are "forgotten about" in the cacophony of Los Angeles sports.

USC has surged to a 7-2 record this year, clocking in at No. 17 in the latest AP poll. Their ascent follows a notable 38-17 win over Northwestern, bouncing back from a bruising loss to Notre Dame. Yet, even with a robust performance and a top-notch recruiting class fueled by hefty NIL investments, they're overshadowed by the local sports giants.

Crowded Los Angeles Sports Landscape

The Trojans face stiff competition for the spotlight in a city that worships its Dodgers and Lakers – both franchises basking in their own recent triumphs. Adding to the sports frenzy, the NFL's Rams have clinched a Super Bowl victory, further crowding the field. "It doesn’t really matter to me if USC ever plays another football game," Finebaum quipped on "The Matt Barrie Show." "They are forgotten about, and I’m sure Lincoln Riley is getting that memo."

“It doesn’t really matter to me if USC ever plays another football game. The bottom line is, they are forgotten about, and I’m sure Lincoln Riley is getting that memo."

What’s Next for USC and Lincoln Riley?

Historically, a successful USC season would ignite enthusiasm across the city. Yet, as USC's head coach Lincoln Riley navigates challenging seasons and prepares for their grueling end-of-year schedule, speculation swirls about his future. Despite having Caleb Williams leading the charge, the Trojans’ recent records of 8-5 and 7-6 have left fans yearning for a return to glory.

With the College Football Playoff on the horizon, USC remains in the mix, but a daunting schedule lies ahead. They will host No. 21 Iowa at the LA Memorial Coliseum before venturing to face No. 8 Oregon. The regular season will cap off with a high-stakes showdown against their city rivals, UCLA, on November 29.