Urban Meyer claims Oregon game is the biggest of Lincoln Riley's USC tenure

Lincoln Riley is readying his USC team for battle. The Trojans are 8-2 and preparing for a huge matchup with Oregon on Saturday afternoon.

One former coach who understands the magnitude of the game is Urban Meyer. On the latest episode of The Triple Option, the national championship-winning leader elaborated on why this season’s matchup with Oregon means the world to Riley and his USC squad.

“I think this is the most important game. Certainly in Lincoln Riley’s era. Maybe in the last decade for USC,” Meyer proclaimed. “USC is an enigma to me. How the hell could you not be good at USC? USC’s got everything. The tradition. The school. They’ve got everything. Great talent.

“If they win this game, they’re in the College Football Playoff. I’ll say that. They’ll go in. If they lose, they’re obviously out. So, this is a must-win for both teams. I think it’s going to be electric.”

Since arriving in Los Angeles, the coveted offensive coach has dealt with his fair share of criticism — some fair, some not. Regardless, Meyer believes he can bring the Trojans to the next level with a win in Eugene against the Ducks. 

It’s been awhile since USC has defeated Oregon. The Ducks are on a three-game win streak over the Trojans, victorious in their last three meetings. You have to go back to 2016 to find USC’s last win over their former PAC-12 counterpart.

The last time these two teams faced off was in 2023, and that one was also in Eugene. In fact, USC hasn’t won in Eugene since 2011 — a three-point dub. As you can tell, this would be a gigantic victory in many ways for Riley’s team.

They have the tools to get it done, for sure. USC quarterback Jayden Maiava has been wonderful this season, passing for 2,868 yards, 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. He’s also ran for six touchdowns, as well. He has no shortage of weapons to spread the ball around to as well, with Makai Lemon holding it down at wide receiver to the tune of 71 receptions, 1,090 yards and eight touchdowns.

Alas, it remains to be seen whether or not Riley’s squad can get the job done on the road. Their showdown with Oregon will kickoff at 3:30 p.m. ET, broadcasted on CBS. You won’t want to miss it.