The Nearly-Raiderman: How Pete Carroll Almost Changed Las Vegas's Destiny and a Childhood Rivalry Endured

Imagine a different NFL landscape, one where the iconic Pete Carroll, architect of the USC Trojans' dynasty and Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl triumph, took the helm of the Las Vegas (then Oakland) Raiders. It’s a compelling 'what if' that nearly became reality in 2004, a pivotal moment that could have dramatically reshaped the franchise’s fortunes and, perhaps, the league itself.

At the heart of this near-miss, and a fascinating subplot to Carroll's illustrious career, lies a decades-long friendship with a man who, in a twist of fate, was already entrenched in the Raiders' coaching staff: special teams coordinator Tom McMahon.

The Raiders, a franchise synonymous with silver and black grit, found themselves at a crossroads in 2004 after a disappointing 4-12 season.

Owner Al Davis, ever the seeker of maverick talent, had his sights set on Pete Carroll. Carroll, then riding high as the head coach of the USC Trojans, had transformed the college football powerhouse into a perennial contender, culminating in a National Championship. His infectious energy, defensive acumen, and player-centric approach were exactly what Davis believed the struggling Raiders needed.

Carroll was offered the job, and for a fleeting moment, it seemed the stars might align.

But the story deepens beyond a mere coaching offer. Tom McMahon, the Raiders' special teams coordinator at the time, wasn't just another assistant; he was Pete Carroll’s oldest friend in football, a bond forged not on the sidelines of an NFL stadium, but on the playgrounds of their youth.

Their shared history dates back to elementary school, growing up together, competing in everything from sandlot games to, famously, the Punt, Pass & Kick competition. McMahon, a year older, often held the upper hand, playfully outperforming Carroll in those early tests of gridiron prowess. This childhood rivalry blossomed into an unbreakable friendship, enduring through high school, college, and their respective, highly successful, coaching careers.

Their paths intertwined repeatedly over the decades.

McMahon had served under Carroll at various stops, including a crucial stint as his special teams coordinator at USC, a testament to the trust and mutual respect they shared. So, when the Raiders came calling for Carroll, McMahon was already there, a familiar and trusted face within a new potential environment.

The thought of joining forces again, this time at the highest level of professional football, must have been incredibly tempting.

Ultimately, Carroll made the monumental decision to remain at USC. His loyalty to the Trojans, his deep connection to the players and the burgeoning dynasty he was building, proved stronger than the allure of the NFL's brightest lights.

It was a choice that kept him in the college ranks for several more seasons, where he continued to dominate before eventually making the jump to the Seattle Seahawks, where he would secure a Super Bowl XLVIII victory and build another formidable NFL contender.

For the Raiders, Carroll's decision to stay put ushered in a period of continued instability, as they cycled through multiple coaches in the years that followed.

One can only speculate how different their trajectory might have been had Carroll brought his unique brand of leadership to Oakland in 2004. Meanwhile, McMahon's journey continued across the NFL, coaching special teams for several franchises, including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders, always bringing his expertise and passion to the game.

His career is a testament to consistency and dedication, often operating in the shadow of his more famous friend, but always a respected figure in his own right.

The enduring friendship between Pete Carroll and Tom McMahon stands as a remarkable tale in the cutthroat world of professional football.

It's a bond that transcends rivalry, coaching changes, and the immense pressures of the game. It began with two kids competing in a Punt, Pass & Kick competition and matured into a lifelong connection between two men who have left an indelible mark on football, offering a glimpse into the human side of a sport often defined by its fierce competition and fleeting loyalties.