Sometimes, life writes scripts that even Hollywood can’t dream up. Picture this: you were a CFB standout just a year ago, with a trophy case full of achievements, suddenly swapped your cleats for a whistle, stepping onto the sidelines not in front of roaring college crowds but to guide young high school players. It’s going to a movie of passing the torch and inspiring the next generation. As once a dual-threat back, in Lincoln Riley and his USC Trojans arsenal. Will be seen on the sideline of this Lake Elsinore, CA high school team, safe to say inspired by his great four-time consecutive Big 12 Championship winner.

Meet Austin Jones, the former USC Trojan and Stanford Cardinal who carved out a reputation for explosive plays and relentless drive around LA. Now goes by “Coach Jones” on the fields of Lake Elsinore, California. After tearing it up in college football, Jones, at just 23 years old, is stepping into his next challenge as the head coach of the Lakeside Lancers high school football team. The announcement landed with a splash on the school’s Instagram, “Say Hello to our new Head football Coach, Coach Jones. Welcome to the Lancers!!” And with that, Jones added another chapter to a journey that’s already filled with highlights.

During his time under Lincoln Riley at USC, Jones wasn’t just another cog in the machine—he was a dual-threat weapon in an offense that prized versatility. In the 2022 season alone, he racked up 705 rushing yards and 267 receiving yards, showing off his ability to make defenders miss both on the ground and in the air. Jones’ balance, burst, and knack for slipping through tackles made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. It was the same electric style he showcased in high school at Bishop O’Dowd, where he racked up 2,005 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior year. Back then, he was already proving he could be a game-changer, leading his team to a CIF North Coast Section Division II championship.

But Jones’ story isn’t just about numbers—it’s about leadership and heart. Even as a college athlete, he was known for his work ethic and football IQ, qualities that will now shape his approach as a coach. “Everything about football teaches you how to lead,” Jones once said during his time at USC. “You learn how to take the good with the bad, how to inspire people, and how to handle pressure.” Those lessons will be crucial as he takes on the Lancers, a program with high expectations and an eager group of players ready to learn from someone who’s been in their shoes.

The transition from college standout to high school coach isn’t an easy one, but Jones isn’t afraid of a challenge. In fact, his move feels inspired by the coaching philosophies he absorbed under Lincoln Riley, a four-time consecutive Big 12 championship winner who emphasized adaptability and resilience. Jones saw firsthand how a coach could build not just players but a culture, and now he’s bringing that vision to Lake Elsinore. If his players can channel even a fraction of the intensity and precision he brought to the field, the Lancers are in for an exciting season.

For the Lakeside players, the arrival of Coach Jones is a chance to learn from someone who’s lived their dream. Whether it was grinding out tough yards or catching key passes to keep drives alive. Now, as he steps into his role on the sideline, he’s ready to help his players create their own moments.

Let’s hear it from Coach Austin Jones himself

Jones sat down with The Draft Network to reflect on his journey from Stanford to USC and how he sees his future fitting into a zone-based scheme. When asked about his decision to transfer, now a coach himself, Jones didn’t hesitate to call it a game-changer.

“I think it was a great decision for me,” coach Jones shared. “USC offered an incredible opportunity when I entered the portal. I got to play big-time football on an even bigger stage. The competition level didn’t change—it was still top-notch—but the spotlight at USC was on another level. We played in a Pac-12 Championship Game, made it to two Bowl games…those are experiences I’ll always cherish. It was the perfect platform to showcase my skills.”

Interestingly, while many might assume Lincoln Riley’s arrival at USC was the main draw, Jones clarified it wasn’t his top priority. “Honestly, that wasn’t it,” he said. “The deciding factor for me was the relationship I had with USC’s running back coach. Of course, knowing Coach Riley was building a high-powered offense helped. I knew I’d have the chance to prove myself in a system that gets results.”

The Lancers may now have a new coach, but with Jones at the helm, they also have a mentor, a motivator, and someone who knows exactly what it takes to win.