The University of Southern California announced that it will appoint Conor McQuiston to the newly created position of director of artificial intelligence, marking the first time a college football program has designated a dedicated AI executive.
McQuiston arrives with a résumé that blends professional data science and collegiate experience. After stints as an associate data scientist with the sports‑betting platform Prize Picks and as a research analyst for the National Football League, he spent two years overseeing analytics for the University of Michigan football program, where he managed undergraduate data initiatives.
A Tech‑Driven Overhaul at USC
In his new role, McQuiston will be tasked with designing and deploying AI models that can inform game planning, player scouting and training regimens. The objective is to translate raw data into actionable insights that give the Trojans a competitive edge on the field.
Lincoln Riley, who took over as head coach last season, has been vocal about modernizing the program’s infrastructure. He sees the AI appointment as part of a broader strategy to blend cutting‑edge technology with traditional scouting, a combination he believes will attract top talent and sustain success beyond the 2026 campaign.
USC’s investment in artificial intelligence reflects a growing trend across collegiate athletics, where programs are increasingly turning to advanced analytics to stay ahead. By embedding AI into its playbook, the Trojans hope to not only improve on‑field performance but also to streamline recruiting evaluations and injury prevention.