The rivalry between Jim Harbaugh and Pete Carroll dates back to their college coaching days in the mid-2000s, when Harbaugh coached at Stanford and Carroll was leading the dominant USC Trojans. Their clashes became some of the most memorable moments in Pac-12 (then Pac-10) history.
When both coaches moved to the NFL, the rivalry followed them. Carroll took over the Seattle Seahawks in 2010, and Harbaugh became the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers in 2011. Both teams quickly became powerhouses in the NFC West, clashing in memorable playoff games.
With Pete Carroll recently becoming the new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, the rivalry will have a new chapter starting with this upcoming season. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh wasted no time addressing the development, sharing his thoughts on the legendary coach's surprising move during a recent press conference.
Harbaugh acknowledged Carroll’s decorated career and competitive edge, which made him a force to be reckoned with during his time with the Seattle Seahawks. However, he also made it clear that he is ready for the challenge.
“Pete’s been around the game a long time," Harbaugh said. "He’s had a lot of success, but that’s what the AFC West is all about—competition. I’ve got a lot of respect for him, but we’re here to win. Nothing changes that.”
The two will reignite their rivalry in one of the NFL's toughest divisions, which features the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos.
Carroll’s hiring is part of the Raiders’ effort to reestablish themselves following a disappointing season and bring stability to the franchise.
Harbaugh, meanwhile, is focused on continuing to build the Chargers into a championship-caliber team.
Fans can expect fireworks when these two coaching titans face off in the upcoming season.
