USC Players, Recruits and Former Players React To Sarkisian Hire With Support, Confusion, Caution
Nov 29, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies head coach Steve Sarkisian lifts up the Apple Cup trophy with Governor Jay Inslee following a 27-17 Washington victory against the Washington State Cougars at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
The news that Steve Sarkisian has reportedly been hired as the new head coach at USC was met with a mixture of shock, confusion, and support from current and former players and well as recruits. Reports that interim head coach Ed Orgeron has allegedly handed in a letter of resignation only compounded the chaotic response.
Current players opened up on Twitter with varying degrees of response. Some, like redshirt junior tight end Randall Telfer and redshirt freshman offensive lineman Zach Banner announced their full support:
Others, like freshman safety Su’a Cravens and sophomore defensive lineman Leonard Williams tweeted their support for Orgeron and expressed shock at the whole situation:
Meanwhile, former players like quarterback Matt Leinart and running back Marc Tyler gave Sarkisian and the hire praise.
Recruits, on the other, were a mixed bag of responses. Some, like Damien Mama of St. John Bosco, is wondering where he stands with the new staff and potential system:
Serra cornerbac Adoree Jackson tweeted out a cautionary note:
At the same time, the Trojans came back into consideration from four-star running back Joe Mixon.