USC Coach Mike Ekeler Praises Lincoln Riley's Quarterback Prowess

Ekeler believes Riley's ability to develop elite quarterbacks gives USC a major advantage.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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New USC Trojans linebackers coach and special teams coordinator Mike Ekeler discussed his excitement about joining Lincoln Riley's staff, highlighting Riley's unparalleled success in developing star quarterbacks. Ekeler believes having an elite quarterback is crucial to winning in football, and he believes Riley is the best quarterback coach in the sport, having produced multiple Heisman Trophy winners and No. 1 overall NFL draft picks.

Why it matters

Ekeler's comments underscore the importance of quarterback play in today's game and the value that Riley's quarterback development expertise brings to USC. With Riley leading the offense and Ekeler overseeing special teams, USC could have a formidable all-around team that can compete at the highest level.

The details

Ekeler praised Riley's ability to elevate the play of quarterbacks, citing examples like Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Caleb Williams, and Jalen Hurts. He believes Riley's coaching has the power to change the trajectory of a quarterback's career, as seen with Hurts' success in the NFL after transferring from Alabama to Oklahoma. Ekeler also highlighted the improvement of USC quarterback Jayden Maiava, who made major strides under Riley's tutelage.

  • In January 2023, Riley was the head coach of the USC Trojans.
  • In September 2025, Ekeler was the linebackers coach and special teams coordinator for the USC Trojans.

The players

Mike Ekeler

The new linebackers coach and special teams coordinator for the USC Trojans.

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans, known for his ability to develop elite quarterbacks.

Jayden Maiava

The USC Trojans quarterback who made significant improvements in his play under Riley's coaching.

Baker Mayfield

A Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall NFL draft pick who was developed by Riley.

Kyler Murray

A Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall NFL draft pick who was developed by Riley.

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What they’re saying

“You look at football, I don't care if it's pee-wee football, college, NFL. What do you need? What are the components you need to win? If you don't have a quarterback, you got no chance.”

— Mike Ekeler, USC Trojans Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator (Sports Illustrated)

“Guys that don't have one these [quarterback] you have no shot. Well, who's the best quarterbacks coach in football. Not in college, not in the NFL, in football. It's Lincoln Riley. He's developed more starting quarterbacks, more great quarterbacks than anybody. That gives you a chance to compete at the highest level right then and there.”

— Mike Ekeler, USC Trojans Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

Ekeler and Riley will look to continue developing the USC quarterback position and building a well-rounded team that can compete for championships.

The takeaway

With Lincoln Riley's proven track record of developing elite quarterbacks and Mike Ekeler's expertise in special teams, USC appears poised to field a formidable all-around team that can challenge for the top of the Big Ten conference.