Paul Finebaum Criticizes Lincoln Riley, Defends SEC Amid ACC Dispute

Paul Finebaum, a prominent SEC football analyst, has recently delivered sharp criticisms targeting both the ACC and former Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley. Finebaum responded to SMU coach Rhett Lashlee's comments on ACC's depth, which included a jab at the SEC's competitive balance, by calling Lashlee's remarks "comical" and highlighting SMU's 1987 'death penalty' sanctions to question Lashlee's credibility. Finebaum's defense of the SEC was supported by Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin, who publicly backed Finebaum's rebuttal. Additionally, Finebaum criticized Lincoln Riley's coaching, calling it "fraudulent" despite Riley's record of producing Heisman winners, noting Riley's lack of national championships and playoff success at Oklahoma and USC. While some analysts like Joel Klatt caution against firing Riley due to his past success and high buyout cost, Finebaum believes Riley's tenure will be scrutinized heavily, especially with USC's high expectations. These comments underscore Finebaum's reputation for blunt and provocative takes on college football's coaching and conference dynamics.