For months, USC Trojans fans have been calling for the firing of head coach Clay Helton –– and the day has come.
Athletic Director Mike Bohn posted a statement on Twitter saying they have provided every resources for the football program in the last two off seasons and the expectations that came with those added resources haven’t been met.
https://twitter.com/USC_mikebohn/status/1437524310348886018?s=20
“This season is just getting started, and we have the opportunity to really do something special with this team and this program,” Bohn said.
Associate head coach Donte Williams will be replacing Helton on an interim basis.
“Donte is an experienced and well-respected coach who is renowned for his ability to develop relationships with student-athletes, and I appreciate his willingness to take on this challenge,” Bohn added.
He has already been serving as the recruiting director and brought in a solid group of freshmen this offseason. Recruiting will continue to be at the top if he stays on board.
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Bohn also said they will be conducting a national search for a new head coach and will do so “actively and patiently.”
The list of possible candidates is up in the air. One coach that is a good possibility is former Washington University HC –– and current broadcaster –– Chris Petersen, but there’s a strong possibility he’s enjoying life away from the field.
There is a long list of coordinators out there waiting for their shot, but not all of them are good fits. Two names that have been doing a good job in their positions are Tony Elliott –– Clemson’s offensive coordinator –– and Brent Venables –– Clemson’s defensive coordinator.
As far as current head coaches who may want to make the jump, two names that come to mind are Luke Fickell –– Cincinnati’s head coach –– and Ken Niumatalolo –– the winningest head coach in the history of Navy football.
Would it be far-fetched to include former Power-5 coaches like Mark Dantonio and Les Miles?
The best coaches for the program are ones currently on a team, so if USC can steal a good one away, they can make some real change. If not, there are a few possibilities out there.
Featured Photo Credit: John McGillen/USC Athletics