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LOOK: Lincoln Riley mourns the loss of assistant coach in heartfelt message

20200517_134556by:Justin Rudolph•03/25/22
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After the news of the untimely passing of former USC Trojans wide receiver coach Dave Nichol broke, head coach Lincoln Riley shared photos and a statement well morning the loss of his former colleague. Riley announced Nichol would be stepping away from the team on Monday, needing to “on a private medical matter.”

Nichol was just 45 years old, at the time of his passing. He is survived by his father, Robert Nichol Sr., and brothers Robert Nichol Jr. and family and Jimmy Nichol and family. Currently, the cause of death has yet to be released as the family and those close to him process their loss. And, as a far of his grieving process, Riley released this statement on the loss of Nichol.

“ My heart is broken. I met Dave Nichol in 2002. He gave me my shot to be a college player and coach. Taught me everything. Safe to say I wouldn’t be here today without Dave. 1 of the best/most unselfish people ever. Love you & miss you brother-RIP,” wrote Riley via Twitter.

Along with that quote, Riley posted these pictures of the late Trojans assistant coach and longtime friend.

The USC Trojans hired Nichol this season, with Riley making the move from the Oklahoma Sooners to USC. Nichol was named the inside receivers coach alongside being the Associate Head Coach for Offense. He and Riley go way back, working together at multiple stops in East Carolina and Texas Tech.

Riley and USC issue statement on the passing of Nichol

Before releasing his own personal statement, Riley released an official one with USC itself on the passing of Nichol.

“We are heartbroken and devastated,” Riley said in a school-released statement.  “Dave was such a tremendous human being and a fantastic football coach.  He absolutely loved the game and constantly poured his heart and soul into his teams.  He will be dearly missed.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family.  We, as a program, look forward to playing and coaching for him as we move forward.” 

Prior to being hired by the coaches, Nichol was working at Mississippi State with head coach Mike Leach. Those two also worked together while at Washington State, with Nichol serving as both an inside and outside wide receivers coach.