Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley answers a question during a press conference in August.
(Sue Ogrotzky / The Associated Press)
The first defender Riley ever coached was none other than USC Assault Coordinator Graham Harrell. Harrell told The Times: “Lincoln was actually the first to teach me about Mike Leach’s wrongdoing. He was only a year or two older than me, but he knew what the offense was. We were so close in age, it grew into a friendship, but he was a friend whom I respected. In the beginning it was because he was the only guy who watched the movie with me. “
As of September 2019, Harrell and Riley communicated frequently via text messages. They clearly remained friends over the years.
“He bought us Harrell-engraved steak knives,” Harrell said. “Every time we eat steaks and gather friends, they ask:“ Where did you get these knives? “My wife will always say,” Riley bought them for us as a wedding present. ” He tells me to come and visit him. I’m sure he has a pretty good house now and does what he does. “
It is possible that Riley kept up with the USC from afar, given his closeness to Harrell. Harrell was supposed to move next season, but given the hiring of his friend, it will certainly be interesting to see if Harrell remains part of USC’s Riley staff. Of course, Riley will have to decide if he wants to start over with the Trojans’ quarterback. The expectation of a quick recovery will always be there, surpassing any old attachments. This brings us to our final topic …
