Despite embarking on a new chapter as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, Pete Carroll remains steadfastly committed to a significant aspect of his previous role: teaching his popular class, “The Game is Life,” at the University of Southern California. Carroll was also the head coach of the USC Trojans from 2001-2009
As detailed by Sam Farmer and Gary Klein of the L.A. Times, Carroll has continued to conduct his weekly sessions, with three remaining for the current cohort of 56 students, a select group chosen from over 300 applicants.
Demonstrating the class’s unique appeal, Carroll has also enlisted a roster of notable celebrity guests, including Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, actor Jason Sudeikis, and actor Rainn Wilson, best known for his role as Dwight Schrute in “The Office.”
Las Vegas Raiders HC Pete Carroll And His USC Class
Carroll emphasized his unwavering dedication to his students, telling the Times, “I said I was going to be here for them and see it through. I was committed and stayed committed. I didn’t let anything get in the way of that.”
His commitment has been truly remarkable, as he has missed only one class session, and even that absence was accommodated by his participation via Zoom while attending the NFL Scouting Combine.
The impact of Carroll’s class extends far beyond football strategy. Elina Khoshnevis, one of his students, shared the profound influence of the course, stating that it “completely changed my life.”
She further elaborated on Carroll’s personal touch, noting, “From the start, Pete has the ability to make you feel seen and heard. He’s the type of person I’m never going to forget in my life. Ever. More than any professor, any class. I will never forget the knowledge that he’s shared in that space and beyond.”
While USC’s loss in terms of Carroll’s full-time presence is the Raiders’ gain, the Raiders organization has acquired not only a highly respected and experienced coach but also an individual with a remarkable ability to connect with and inspire those around him.
Although talent acquisition will undoubtedly be a key factor in the Raiders’ success, Carroll’s proven leadership and impactful presence suggest that he is likely to have an immediate and positive influence on the team.