USC football announces major staff change upon hiring of Gary Patterson

The Trojans have announced Gary Patterson as their new defensive coordinator, a move that comes with some changes to the defensive coaching staff.

Secondary coach Doug Belk, who spent most of his time in Los Angeles working with the safeties, will be leaving the Trojans. It’s expected that Hall of Fame coach and new defensive coordinator Patterson will step into the role Belk previously held. Travon Reed, who coached the cornerbacks is expected to return to USC in 2026.

“As a Hall of Fame coach, who is one of the game’s most highly regarded defensive minds, he brings a wealth of success and experience to our program," Riley said of Patterson after his hiring was made official. His impact will be immediate, elevating our defense and strengthening the culture we’ve built."

Doug Belk out as part of changes on defensive coaching staff

Belk will leave a lasting mark on USC after taking over a passing defense that ranked near 100th in the nation and improving it to 47th by 2025. He’s also earned plenty of praise for coaching and developing All-American safety Bishop Fitzgerald, who is now headed to the NFL.

While Belk is on the way out, that doesn’t seem to be the case for most of the defensive staff. USC’s search for a new defensive coordinator took several factors into account, with staff continuity being a big one. That focus led to a patient approach, ultimately landing Patterson. While hiring Patterson alone is a fantastic move, it’s even better that USC managed to bring in a Hall of Fame coach while keeping most of its top-tier defensive coaching and recruiting staff intact.

This move will likely be the last big non-recruiting development for USC this offseason. So far, the Trojans have nailed what many consider a pivotal stretch.