Oklahoma Sooners first year offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley is getting looks from other programs in their head coaching openings. Riley, the former offensive coordinator at East Carolina University, came to Norman last winter when Sooner Head Coach Bob Stoops shuffled his staff, firing and reassigning coaches. With extensive knowledge of the “Mike Leach” style of offensive (that Stoops brought to OU in his first year in 1999 that led to a National Title in 2000), Riley was designated as the man to take the Sooner offense back to the glory days of Stoops reign. Riley did his job this season and currently the Sooner offense has driven the little Sooner Schooner to a Top Three rankings with the Big Red headed to a National semi-final game on New Year’s Eve.
Listening to the Sooner Nation, the natives are restless, upset that Riley might take an offer and leave the green pastures of Soonerland for the marshes of South Carolina or the bar-b-q pig pits of Memphis, Tennessee. Not to mention that the highly regarded and young coach (32 years of age) would up his financial package by three, maybe four times what he is earning at OU ($500,000 a year). If Riley is offered, it is a no-brainer that he will become a brand spanking new head coach at a major or mid-major football program. And with all thanks, the Sooner faithful needs to compliment the young coach that some day could become the Head Coach of the University of Oklahoma when the legendary Bob Stoops hangs his clipboards up.
Totally agree Fred! Calm down people. If he does get offered he would be crazy not to take it anyway. It is after all only a job and a new offer like this would let him be able to really take care of his family. I hope he stays because he has been a wonderful asset but Lord people look at the big picture. ……. As far as I’ve seen he hasn’t been offered anything yet!
Update: Riley will not be going to South Carolina or Memphis as both schools named head coaches Friday.
You have brought up a very great points, thanks for the post.