College football's battle for LA: As USC and Lincoln Riley run out of excuses, Bob Chesney has UCLA dreaming big again: 'We've awoken the masses'

Key Points:

• UCLA's football program, led by new coach Bob Chesney, has gained optimism and momentum after his success at smaller schools and James Madison, instilling confidence and a positive culture among players.
• USC, under Lincoln Riley, faces mounting pressure after four seasons without a College Football Playoff appearance, with a guarded media approach and internal challenges contributing to a fragile atmosphere.
• The contrasting trajectories of UCLA and USC highlight changing dynamics in college football coaching, where unconventional hires like Chesney can succeed while high-profile moves like Riley's have struggled.
• Chesney emphasizes building a strong team culture focused on confidence, unity, and enjoyment of the game, which players say has revitalized UCLA's program and could be key to sustained success.
• As the 2026 season begins, UCLA appears poised for a resurgence while USC confronts an urgent need to deliver results or face significant consequences for its coaching regime.