How a record-breaking quarterback transitioned from Heisman finalist to championship-winning coach
In short: Jordan Lynch redefined what a quarterback could do on the ground. After shattering NCAA rushing records and becoming a Heisman finalist, he moved from the professional fields of the CFL to the high school sidelines, where he has since built a dynasty of state championships.
During his collegiate career at Northern Illinois University, Lynch became a statistical phenomenon. During 2012, he took over as the university's starting quarterback and amassed 1,815 rushing yards, surpassing Denard Robinson's former NCAA single-season record for quarterbacks. His 2013 campaign proved even more productive, totaling 1,920 rushing yards and securing first-team All-American status as an all-purpose player.
His 2013 campaign was marked by several single-game milestones. On October 19, he recorded 316 rushing yards and three touchdowns against an unnamed opponent, and on November 26, he broke his own single-game record by rushing for 321 yards against Western Michigan University. These performances led to him being named a finalist for the 2013 Heisman Trophy, ultimately finishing third in the voting.
After a professional career that included a stint with the Chicago Bears and a championship victory with the Edmonton Eskimos in the CFL, Lynch returned to his roots in Chicago. In December 2017, he was announced as the head coach of Mount Carmel High School, succeeding Frank Lenti, who had led the program for 34 years. Since taking over, Lynch has become a dominant force in Illinois high school football, leading the Caravan to multiple IHSA Football State Championships in 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Lynch's coaching success has been remarkably consistent. He has secured five coaching championships, including a streak of four consecutive titles from 2022 through 2025.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Jordan Lynch
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