We all knew this was coming. As soon as word got out that any NFL Head Coach was fired this year, the first name to come up would be Lincoln Riley from Oklahoma University. The 36-year-old who has been at the University since 2015 under Bob Stoops, is probably the hottest name on the rumor mill for the call up to the NFL. I’m sure he would want nothing more than to get that call. Unfortunately for him, the first place that has vacancy is Washington, where he apparently won’t go.
Lincoln Riley has been in Norman for 3 years now, and his track record there is quite impressive. He is 29-4 so far during his tenure, but his performance in bowl games leaves much to be desired. In his first year, the Sooners went 12-2 and made the Rose Bowl that they dropped to Georgia in an instant classic. The following year, another 12-2 record this time making the Orange Bowl, but another loss would be waiting in the hands of Alabama. Riley has produced, however, back to back Heisman Trophy winners in Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray. He is an offensive maestro, and whenever he does make the league, I have no doubt he can produce.
Do you blame him for not wanting to go to Washington? It is a dumpster fire there. A Quarterback the previous guy didn’t want, an offensive line without Trent Williams due to a holdout, and a defense lacking youth and talent, really. I wouldn’t touch this job with a 10-foot pole, unless they throw me $10 Million a year, that is. Which is what it would take, or more, to get Lincoln Riley there. So Redskins fans, keep dreaming.
