Lincoln Riley shouts at Ohio State staff after USC upset

After USC’s 30‑18 victory over Ohio State, coach Lincoln Riley was filmed shouting expletives at Ohio State coaches in the tunnel at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 01 Nov 2026 06:50:08 GMT

USC stunned No. 2 Ohio State 30‑18 on Halloween night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and moments later coach Lincoln Riley was captured on video shouting expletives at Ohio State staff members in the tunnel, according to NY Post reports.

What happened

The Trojans secured a 30‑18 win over the Buckeyes on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, in front of a rain‑soaked crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. After the final whistle, thousands of jubilant USC fans stormed the field, creating a chaotic scene as security tried to escort players, coaches and families to the locker rooms. In the tunnel, Riley was heard yelling, “Are you kidding me? F‑k you!” and “That’s bulls‑t.” The incident was recorded and posted on X by reporter Nicole Shearin.

What the reports add

One NY Post article focused on the post‑game confrontation, describing Riley’s shouted remarks and noting that quarterback Jayden Maiava was seen helping security navigate the crowd. The same outlet’s earlier game recap highlighted the significance of the upset, calling it the biggest victory of Riley’s USC tenure and noting the Buckeyes entered the game 6‑1 with national championship aspirations.

What was said

Riley’s exact words were quoted in the video: “Are you kidding me? F‑k you!” and “That’s bulls‑t.” The article also referenced an AP photo of Ohio State head coach Ryan Day shaking hands with Riley before the game, but no direct comments from either coach about the incident were provided.

How it came about

USC entered the Halloween matchup after a week‑long slump, having lost 24‑7 to Wisconsin on Oct. 25, a defeat that had put Riley’s job under scrutiny (Felo coverage). Injuries on both sides were noted ahead of the game (Felo coverage). The victory reversed the narrative, delivering Riley his signature win and prompting the post‑game chaos that led to the confrontation.

Key facts

USC defeated Ohio State 30‑18 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Oct. 31, 2026. (nypost.com)
Lincoln Riley was recorded shouting expletives at Ohio State staff in the tunnel after the game. (nypost.com)
The incident was posted on X by reporter Nicole Shearin. (nypost.com)
Quarterback Jayden Maiava was seen assisting security during the post‑game scramble. (nypost.com)