USC football hiring director of AI, a first-of-its-kind move

The University of Southern California is expected to hire Conor McQuiston as the first director of artificial intelligence for college football, according to reports from USA TODAY Sports. The move follows a $200 million donation from Mark and Mary Stevens for AI research and signals a new technical direction for Lincoln Riley’s program.

Two people familiar with the move confirmed to USA TODAY Sports that McQuiston is expected to be named to the post Wednesday, June 10. The sources requested anonymity because the hiring had not been officially announced.

Who is Conor McQuiston and what is his role?

McQuiston brings a background in analytics from both the NFL and college football. In this new position, he will report directly to USC general manager Chad Bowden.

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Bowden, the son of former MLB general manager Jim Bowden, has a history of establishing analytics roles. While serving as the general manager at Notre Dame, Bowden hired Anthony Treash as the program’s first director of analytics.

Did You Know? Mark Stevens, who contributed to the AI funding, is a USC alumnus and a minority owner of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors.

How is AI funding influencing USC football?

The university recently received a $200 million gift from billionaire Mark Stevens and his wife, Mary, specifically designated for AI research and utilization. Members of the football program credited athletics director Jennifer Cohen for embracing the creation of the AI director role.

USC Trojans Make History In Hiring First Ever Director Of AI | What's The Role And How Will It Help?

People within the program believe USC is the first college football team to establish a director of AI. Former LSU and Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly noted last month in a discussion with USA TODAY Sports that AI is an emerging element in the sport.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that by pairing a massive financial endowment with a dedicated executive role, USC is attempting to institutionalize a technical advantage that other programs have only discussed theoretically.

What happens next for the Trojans’ analytics department?

USC intends to expand its technical staff. People with knowledge of the move told USA TODAY Sports that the university plans to hire additional full-time employees to support the football program’s research and analytics department.

These additions come as head coach Lincoln Riley prepares for his fifth season. His roster returns 15 starters, including quarterback Jayden Maiava.

The team is entering its third season as a member of the Big Ten. USC is scheduled to open the 2026 season at home against San Jose State on Aug. 29.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will the director of AI report to at USC?
Conor McQuiston will report directly to general manager Chad Bowden.

How much funding did USC receive for AI research?
The university received a $200 million gift from Mark and Mary Stevens.

When does the USC football season begin?
The Trojans open their season on Aug. 29 against San Jose State.

Do you think the addition of a dedicated AI director will create a significant competitive advantage in college football?