LOS ANGELES -- In a unique intersection of sports and education, Pete Carroll, the renowned head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders and former leader of the Seattle Seahawks, is stepping into the role of professor at the University of Southern California (USC). With his dynamic philosophy encapsulated in his motivational doctrine, "Win Forever," Carroll captivated nearly 60 students in a basement lecture hall on USC's campus, passionately delivering lessons that extend well beyond the football field.

At 73 years old, Carroll is a whirlwind of energy as he paces the classroom, his arms animatedly emphasizing his points. "Practice is everything," he passionately declared during one of his classes. "If you want something, you've got to get good at it. You have to find a way to make time, set priorities, and organize your life so that you can dedicate the necessary effort to improve in what you want to excel at." His enthusiasm mirrors that of a head coach rallying his team, as he inspires the next generation to pursue their dreams with the same fervor he has shown throughout his illustrious career.

Every Thursday evening throughout USC's spring semester, Carroll temporarily trades the football field for the classroom, sharing insights from his impressive career. His goal is to translate the strategies that led him to a Super Bowl victory with the Seahawks and two national championships with USC into applicable life skills for his students. The course, aptly titled "The Game is Life," is co-taught with Varun Soni, the Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life, and David Belasco, an adjunct professor. Together, they aim to empower students to excel not just academically but in all facets of their lives.

Shadi Angotti, a biological sciences major, expressed the impact of Carroll's class, stating, "I've told Pete myself that this class is not just academic for me. It serves as an escape, something I eagerly anticipate every week." This sentiment resonates widely among the students, who find Carrolls teachings both refreshing and enriching.

Carrolls engagement with his students is equally rewarding for him. Just days prior, he addressed reporters at the NFLs annual league meeting in Palm Beach, Florida, where he revealed his enthusiasm for teaching. "The class I'm teaching at USC and the opportunity to communicate with young people has been incredibly fulfilling," he noted, highlighting the reciprocal nature of learning between him and the students.

The course has attracted a diverse mix of students, with 300 applicants vying for a spot in this competitive class. Drawn from various majors and career paths, students range from aspiring musicians and dancers to entrepreneurs and athletes. Notably, JuJu Watkins, the AP womens basketball player of the year, is among those enrolled, although she was unable to attend this particular session due to a knee injury.

Despite the generational differences, Carroll has forged strong connections with students who are often decades younger. Many students, unfamiliar with his past glories at USC, recognize him mainly for his recent successes with the Seahawks or from popular media such as documentaries. Mia Triolo, a communications major and lacrosse player, remarked on Carroll's ability to relate to each student individually: "He can find a connection with every single one of us, regardless of our backgrounds or interests."

Throughout the course, Carroll leans on personal anecdotes to illustrate key concepts like resilience. He shares stories of his own setbacks, including being fired from coaching positions with the New York Jets and the New England Patriots, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and commitment. Even after accepting a coaching position with the Raiders, Carroll pledged his dedication to teaching this course, embodying the principles he preaches.

"He's the epitome of 'the game is life,'" Angotti said, acknowledging how Carroll's extensive experiences make him an ideal instructor. "Everything he shares is rooted in his own journey, making it all the more relatable and impactful."

The students engagement is palpable. Arriving early and lingering long after class ends, they are eager to absorb every lesson. Even when actor Rainn Wilson, famed for his role as Dwight Schrute on "The Office," joins the class, Carroll remains the undeniable focus. The initial 15 minutes of each session often feature students mingling, playing games, and discussing various topics while music plays in the background, creating a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere.

In one memorable session, Carroll revisited a previous class where Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr was a guest speaker, prompting students to share their insights. He then skillfully segued into the days lesson on resilience, stating, "Resilience is about having hope. If you've lost hope, you're not bouncing back. You're done." This message resonated deeply, prompting heartfelt discussions among students.

Throughout the class, technology takes a backseat; laptops are stowed, and cell phones remain off, allowing students to focus entirely on the lessons imparted. Carroll's vibrant energy fills the room, and at one point, he excitedly shares that he will be meeting his new Raiders squad soon, stating, "I am going to 'wow' their ass," eliciting smiles and laughter from his students.

As the class concludes, a robust 40-minute Q&A session offers students the opportunity to seek advice on pressing issues, ranging from job offers and salary negotiations to work-life balance and the meaning of passion. Carrolls candid responses and infectious optimism leave the students energized and inspired.

As the session wraps up, students can be seen eagerly waiting to share their personal triumphs and seek Carroll's guidance, resulting in an atmosphere ripe for conversation and connection. "If we hadn't been kicked out, we could have talked for another 30 minutes. It's been really special," Carroll mused as he made his way out, ready to attend another engagement.

As he approaches the elevator, students rush to catch one last word with their professor, who seamlessly transitions from the role of an educator back to that of a coach. In this new chapter of his career, Carroll continues to inspire, reminding everyone that the lessons learned on and off the field are invaluable for life.