CORVALLIS - The thought of taking the fall off, well, it just doesn't compute with Mike Riley. Almost as much as leaving Oregon State in a bind.

Riley gave up his OSU assistant coaching post in July in order to become head coach of the Alliance of America Football's San Antonio franchise. But it was far from a snap decision for the 65-year-old former two-time Beaver head coach.

Starting Friday, Riley will stand near OSU's practice field every day during preseason camp. He'll serve the Beavers' program as a consultant, with a job description as long as a commercial lease. What Riley cannot do is coach, however. He'll be at practice to observe, while offering thoughts to coach Jonathan Smith and his staff.

"I can help with any part of the game. I can be anywhere I'm needed, whether that's watching practice film or previewing opponents, any off-the-field football stuff, roster stuff, special teams, defense, whatever," Riley said.

Riley says early on, he'll spend most of his time assisting the offensive staff.

Riley began talking about the San Antonio job in March, and by May, knew it was his if he wanted it. But it came with a catch in Riley's mind.

"I wasn't going to do it until I could work out a deal where I was connected to Oregon State. It took two months to make a decision, to work it all out," Riley said. "I wanted to stay connected, but I also want to do this new job."

Riley says he will be with the Beavers through the end of the season, then head to San Antonio to coach its AAF team.

Riley, who says he hasn't had a football-free fall "in 40-something years," says he'll attend all Oregon State games, but cannot be active with the team. He's not sure where he'll sit, or stand, during games.

Riley says he's particularly there to assist Smith in whatever he needs as a head coach.

"But from what I've observed so far, he's ready," Riley said.

--Nick Daschel | ndaschel@oregonian.com | @nickdaschel