AI invades the gridiron: How a college football team's new Director of AI could change the game forever
The USC football program is hiring Conor McQuiston to operate as director of artificial intelligence, according to multiple reports, after he served as the team's director of football analytics in 2025.
Conor McQuiston will serve as the director of artificial intelligence for the USC football program, a position that is the first of its kind in college football. McQuiston previously held the role of director of football analytics for the team in 2025. According to Antonio Morales of The Athletic, McQuiston's new role will involve utilizing artificial intelligence to gain a competitive edge. The hiring is seen as a significant investment in the team's analytics capabilities.
The introduction of an AI director will likely impact the job market for sports analysts, as teams may begin to prioritize candidates with expertise in artificial intelligence. This could lead to a shift in the types of skills and qualifications that are valued in the industry. As a result, sports analytics professionals may need to adapt to new technologies and methods. The role of AI in sports is becoming increasingly important.
The use of artificial intelligence in sports is not new, but its application in college football is still in its early stages. The NFL has been using AI for several years, with teams like the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles investing heavily in analytics and AI. The NCAA has also been exploring the use of AI in college sports, with a focus on player safety and injury prevention. Insiders know that the key to success lies in the ability to collect and analyze large amounts of data.
The USC football program will likely announce further details about McQuiston's role and responsibilities in the coming weeks. The team's performance in the 2026 season will be closely watched, as it will provide an early indication of the impact of AI on the team's strategy and decision-making. A report on the team's use of AI is expected to be released by the end of the season, which may provide insight into the effectiveness of this new approach. The fact that McQuiston's salary is reportedly higher than that of some of the team's coaches suggests that the program is committed to investing in AI.
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