USC may be getting more than just Steve Sarkisian as the new coach of the football program. They may also be getting some of his top assistants.
According to reports, Washington defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox and Washington defensive line coach Tosh Lupoi (pictured right) will be coming with Sark to So Cal.
Dave “Softy” Mahler of KJR in Seattle reported the news about Wilcox and Lupoi:
Per source: Justin Wilcox is going to USC with Steve Sarkisian. Nothing confirmed on any angle from UW
— Dave Softy Mahler (@Softykjr) December 2, 2013
Adam Gorney at Rivals also reported it:
Reports that Tosh Lupoi and Justin Wilcox will join Sarkisian at #USC. Huge boost for recruiting.
— Adam Gorney (@adamgorney) December 2, 2013
Lupoi played college football at Cal and was a successful defensive coach and recruiter under Jeff Tedford from 2008-2011 until being hired by Sarkisian. Sark bringing him to LA would also have another consequence — it would likely mean Ed Orgeron, who is also a defensive line coach, would not be retained by USC.
Wilcox (pictured) is another former Jeff Tedford assistant at Cal. He also served as defensive coordinator under Chris Petersen at Boise State and Derrick Dooley at Tennessee before being hired by Sarkisian last year. He is said to be a candidate to fill the Washington vacancy now that Sarkisian is leaving, so it might not be a guarantee that he accompanies Sark to LA.
In many cases, the ability of the head coach to fill his staff with quality assistants has immeasurable importance. If Sarkisian can bring two of his top assistants with him, that will give him a great advantage in recruiting and implementing schemes.
Also see: Steve Sarkisian is a good coach but likely won’t build a dynasty at USC
