Ohio State suffered a 30–18 defeat to USC on November 1, 2026, in a game that intensified criticism of head coach Ryan Day. Lincoln Riley's Trojans dominated the matchup, leaving the Buckeyes with a loss that prompted fans to question Day's ability to handle adversity.
The result marked a significant setback for Ohio State, as social media and college football commentators highlighted Day's record in high-pressure situations. USC's victory under Riley added to the narrative of a shifting landscape in the sport.
