Things just keep getting worse for USC head coach Steve Sarkisian and the university’s football program. Trojans fans thought they were nearing rock bottom after an embarrassing 17-12 loss at home to Washington on primetime television Thursday night, but that was just the tip of the iceberg, apparently.
BREAKING: Some #USC assistant coaches believed Steve Sarkisian was drunk during the Arizona State game on Sept. 26.
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
“His eyes didn’t look right, he was too animated,” said one #USC coach
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
BREAKING: #USC assistants pulled Steve Sarkisian out of player huddle on sideline during Arizona State game. Believed he was not sober
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
Sarkisian’s struggles with alcohol have been well-documented, and it’s now pretty clear that he may be dealing with an addiction. And being in the spotlight at one of the most reported-on football programs in the country may not be the best place for him right now.
USC athletic director Pat Haden must have thought the same thing, as he just recently asked Sark to take a leave of absence.
I’m told players just met w/Pat Haden and Clay Helton is interim coach as Haden has asked Sarkisian to take a temp. leave of absence #USC
— Lindsey Thiry (@LindseyThiry) October 11, 2015
We hope Sark gets the help he needs. USC’s football program takes a hit in the short-term but will remain and likely bounce back at some point. However, alcoholism is a tough disease to conquer and that absolutely takes precedence.