Major Big Ten Program Hires College Football Hall of Fame Coach

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

Major Big Ten Program Hires College Football Hall of Fame Coach

Former TCU Horned Frogs head coach Gary Patterson is returning to college football. He spent 22 years leading TCU, during which he achieved a record of 181-79. However, he and the university parted ways in 2021 following a 3-5 start to the season.

Since then, he has held various minor roles with the Texas Longhorns and Baylor Bears. However, he is now returning as a key contributor to the program, as it has been announced by On3 that he will be the next defensive coordinator for Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans.

This follows the departure of former defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, who accepted a similar position with the Penn State Nittany Lions.

Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley watches game action.© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Patterson and Riley developed a relationship during their time as head coaches in the Big 12, when Riley was at Oklahoma. Riley is recognized as a two-time AP Coach of the Year and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. During his tenure at TCU, he achieved a total of 11 final AP Top 25 rankings, which included seven top-10 finishes, along with a No. 2 ranking in 2010 and a No. 3 ranking in 2014.

The immediate ripple effects are significant for USC’s program identity. After defensive inconsistency plagued the Trojans in recent seasons, Patterson’s arrival signals a clear philosophical shift toward experience, structure and adaptability.

From a historical standpoint, Patterson’s résumé speaks for itself. His defenses were known for versatility and player development, traits USC has lacked at key moments. With Lynn departing for Penn State, Patterson steps into a role that demands immediate results in the Big Ten.

Looking ahead, USC will lean heavily on Patterson as it prepares for its upcoming season under the conference spotlight. The Trojans open fall camp this summer in Los Angeles, with expectations squarely focused on defensive improvement as Riley’s team gears up for another playoff push in a deeper, more physical league.

Related: Major College Football Program Loses Key Coordinator to Big Ten Foe

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos