Challenges Faced by Pete Carroll: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 18, 2025

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Pete Carroll. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Peter Clay Carroll is an American football coach. He is the head coach for the Las Vegas Raiders of the NFL. Before that, he coached USC, the New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks. He won a college football national championship with USC and Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seahawks, making him one of only three coaches to win both.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2001: Slow start to USC coaching career

In 2001, Pete Carroll's first USC team started the season with a 2-5 record. Sportswriters considered the Trojans a dying program.

2010: Seahawks Roster Overhaul and Playoff Berth

In the 2010 season, Pete Carroll significantly altered the Seahawks roster, making over 200 transactions. The team finished with a 7-9 record but won the NFC West, becoming the first team with that record to win a division title. They then upset the New Orleans Saints in the playoffs before losing to the Chicago Bears.

2011: Another 7-9 Season for the Seahawks

In 2011, Pete Carroll again coached the Seahawks to a 7–9 record, but it was not enough to secure a playoff spot.

February 1, 2015: Seahawks Lose Super Bowl XLIX

On February 1, 2015, Pete Carroll's Seahawks lost Super Bowl XLIX to the New England Patriots, 28-24, after a controversial play call near the end of the game.

September 21, 2020: NFL Fine for Mask Violation

On September 21, 2020, Pete Carroll was fined US$100,000 by the NFL for not properly wearing a face mask during a Week 2 game, as required during the COVID-19 pandemic.