How is this any different than Bill Callahan? I like Riley. But this certainly doesn't seem like a fit.
Mike Riley is a perfect fir for Nebraska. Everything he has done at OSU is what is needed in Lincoln to win. You need a coach that can think out of the box and be creative in recruiting. Let's face it, Nebraska will rarely have a top 15 recruiting class. Therefor you need to find some diamonds in the rough. Riley did that at Oregon State. He won football games at one of the hardest places to win in the country. Prior to his arrival, Oregon State had not had a winning record in 26 years. And he did it with less talent. You need a coach that can develop players. That is Riley's strength. He also modeled OSU's walk-on program after Nebraska's in the 1990's. That is a must for any Nebraska coach. Riley will connect with the fan base. This was an obstacle for Pelini, and a strength for Riley. This is a HOME RUN hire!
I tend to agree. I think very highly of him. He's been a great coach considering where and what he's had to work with. Oregon St has played spoiler many times. And for sure he comes with no drama. Likable and high quality man.
The chatter is out there. Not sure what to think. In my mind, he's still not HC material but a brilliant line coach or Def Coordinater/Recruiting Coordinator. The Beavs might take a chance and his personality sorta fits with that fan base. I don't know that he would come West if it isn't USC and his family (read wife) is not likely to leave La for Corvallis. His interview a few weeks ago basically saying he wants back at USC was poorly timed....but I still like the guy.
i love the hire of mike riley at Nebraska. Even though he went 2-7 in conference. maybe because hes a nice dude and pelini is an asshole. i think this is going to work out for both. i wouldnt hate him as an lsu hire.
