Former USC football coach Pete Carroll to lead NFL’s Seattle Seahawks
By Ryan Eshoff
Jan. 11, 2010 10:34 p.m.
The rumor finally became reality on Monday when former USC coach Pete Carroll officially announced his resignation from the school and signed a contract to become the new coach of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.
Carroll’s departure has ignited a trickle-down effect among others in both the collegiate and professional ranks. On Monday, Oregon State coach Mike Riley ““ widely considered to be the Trojans’ top choice as new coach ““ signed an extension that will keep him under contract in Corvallis through 2019.
Also on Monday, the family of incumbent USC quarterback Matt Barkley announced that the freshman would be remaining at USC despite the departure of Carroll, the coach who recruited him and named him the starter despite his status as a freshman.
Additionally, top USC recruits, such as wide receiver Kyle Prater, have recently reconsidered their commitments.
With Riley now out of the picture, the search for Carroll’s successor could turn to the professional ranks, where Tennessee Titans’ coach Jeff Fisher and Jacksonville Jaguars’ coach Jack Del Rio, both USC alumni, have been rumored to be candidates for the job, although Fisher has denied any significant interest.
Compiled by Ryan Eshoff, Bruin Sports senior staff.
