Lincoln Riley has become one of the most influential figures in college football, known for his innovative offensive strategies and ability to develop elite quarterbacks. Born on September 5, 1983, Riley has achieved numerous accomplishments as a coach, including leading USC to new heights and mentoring several Heisman Trophy winners. His leadership continues to attract attention, not only from college football enthusiasts but also from NFL teams eager to tap into his expertise.
Since joining USC in 2021, Riley has transformed the Trojans into a dominant force, and his impact is being felt across both college and professional football. He’s also recognized for coaching three Heisman-winning quarterbacks, a testament to his talent for developing some of the best players in the game.
Key Takeaways
- Lincoln Riley is known for coaching top-tier quarterbacks, including three Heisman Trophy winners: Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Caleb Williams.
- As the head coach of USC, he has led the team to significant success, including an 11-win season in his first year.
- Riley’s expertise in quarterback development has made him a sought-after name in NFL circles.
- His contract with USC is one of the most lucrative in college football, with an annual salary of around $10 million.
- Riley’s love for brisket showcases his fun and relatable personality off the field.
Lincoln Riley’s Early Football Career
Lincoln Riley began his football career at Texas Tech as a walk-on quarterback, but his future lay in coaching rather than playing. His transition into coaching started at Texas Tech, where he served as a student assistant coach, learning under legendary coach Mike Leach. Riley quickly moved up the ranks, becoming an offensive coordinator at East Carolina, where his dynamic offensive strategies began to shine.
Lincoln Riley’s Coaching Career
Riley’s coaching career took off when he joined the University of Oklahoma as the offensive coordinator in 2015. Just two years later, he was promoted to head coach, replacing the legendary Bob Stoops. Under his leadership, Oklahoma secured four consecutive Big 12 championships, and he earned a reputation for developing Heisman-caliber quarterbacks. His success at Oklahoma set the stage for his move to USC, where he continues to make waves in the college football scene.
Lincoln Riley at USC
Riley took the helm at USC on November 28, 2021, and immediately made a significant impact. In his first season, he led the Trojans to an impressive 11-3 record, bringing renewed hope to a program that had struggled in previous years. His arrival has sparked excitement around USC’s potential to reclaim its status as a national powerhouse, especially with the team’s upcoming transition to the Big Ten Conference in 2024.
Lincoln Riley and the NFL
Although Riley is deeply embedded in college football, his influence is increasingly felt in the NFL. Three of his former quarterbacks—Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Caleb Williams—were selected as the No. 1 overall picks in their respective NFL drafts. This achievement has drawn the attention of NFL teams, and many speculate that Riley could one day make the leap to professional coaching.
Lincoln Riley’s Quarterback Development
A significant part of Riley’s success stems from his ability to develop quarterbacks. At Oklahoma, he coached Heisman winners Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, both of whom were drafted first overall in the NFL. At USC, Caleb Williams followed in their footsteps, becoming a Heisman Trophy winner and top draft prospect. Riley’s offensive schemes and quarterback development have set him apart as one of the best in the game.
| Quarterback | Heisman Year | NFL Draft Position |
|---|---|---|
| Baker Mayfield | 2017 | No. 1 overall (2018) |
| Kyler Murray | 2018 | No. 1 overall (2019) |
| Caleb Williams | 2022 | No. 1 overall (2024) |
Lincoln Riley’s Contract and Salary at USC
Riley’s contract with USC reportedly pays him a base salary of $10 million per year, placing him among the highest-paid coaches in college football. His contract includes performance incentives tied to team success, such as win totals, bowl game appearances, and championships. This financial commitment from USC underscores Riley’s importance in their bid to return to college football’s elite.
Lincoln Riley’s Personal Interests
Aside from football, Riley is known for his love of cooking, particularly his brisket. Fans and players alike appreciate his down-to-earth personality, which adds to his appeal beyond the football field. His brisket has become somewhat of a legend among those who follow him closely, showing a fun side to the intense world of football coaching.
Lincoln Riley’s Heisman Winners and Coaching Legacy
Lincoln Riley’s legacy as a coach is cemented by his ability to develop Heisman winners. With three quarterbacks having won the prestigious trophy under his guidance, he has established himself as a master of offensive strategy and quarterback development. His track record at Oklahoma and USC has solidified his reputation as one of the best coaches in modern college football.
Lincoln Riley’s Record at USC
Riley’s impact at USC has been immediate. In his first season, he led the team to an 11-3 record, turning around a program that had struggled in the years prior. His goal is to restore USC’s position as a top-tier college football program, and his success in recruiting, player development, and game strategy indicates that he’s well on his way to achieving that.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Lincoln Michael Riley |
| Born | September 5, 1983 |
| Coaching Career | Texas Tech, East Carolina, Oklahoma, USC |
| Heisman Winners Coached | Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Caleb Williams |
| USC Record | 11-3 in first season |
| Annual Salary | $10 million |
| NFL Draft Picks | Three No. 1 overall quarterbacks |
FAQs
When did Lincoln Riley start coaching at USC?
Lincoln Riley became the head coach of USC on November 28, 2021.
How many Heisman winners has Lincoln Riley coached?
Lincoln Riley has coached three Heisman Trophy winners: Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Caleb Williams.
What is Lincoln Riley’s salary at USC?
Lincoln Riley’s salary at USC is approximately $10 million per year.
Has Lincoln Riley ever coached in the NFL?
Although Riley has not coached in the NFL, his expertise in developing quarterbacks has caught the attention of several NFL teams.
What is Lincoln Riley known for outside of football?
Lincoln Riley is known for his love of cooking brisket, which he often shares with fans and media.