Entering the year, DeShaun Foster was the laughingstock of the Big Ten, especially after his media day appearance.
After a 1-5 start, questions swirled even more about Foster.
However, weeks later, UCLA has won three in a row, and the crosstown rival USC Trojans have dropped to 4-5 and 2-5 in Big Ten play.
As such, a debate could be had about the Lincoln Riley vs. DeShaun Foster performances.
Matt Zemek of Trojans Wire makes an interesting argument: DeShaun Foster has outcoached Lincoln Riley in 2024.
“Yes, UCLA football coach DeShaun Foster has outcoached USC football boss Lincoln Riley in 2024. It feels jarring and disorienting to say it, but it’s true. How can it not be? UCLA has a chance to make a bowl game this season, something which didn’t seem very likely when the Bruins stumbled early and faced a daunting Big Ten schedule. USC started 2-0 this season and seemed to have a chance to achieve something. Yet, everything has spiraled for USC, all while UCLA has made steady improvements.”
USC has moved on from Miller Moss for the time being, and all sorts of questions are coming around regarding Riley’s future. On the other hand, UCLA is trending up after a brutal start to the season.
What world is this?