USC’s coordinator situation is coming into focus, with a big name joining as defensive coordinator and good news on the offensive front as well.
According to Pete Thamel of Yahoo Sports, the Trojans are working on a deal to make Todd Orlando the team’s new defensive coordinator.
Sources: USC working toward a deal to make Todd Orlando defensive coordinator. Orlando was defensive coordinator at Texas, Houston, Utah State and FIU. He brings a history of strong performances/improvements in Year 1.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 20, 2020
In addition, according to Bruce Feldman of The Athletic, the Trojans are expected to retain offensive coordinator Graham Harrell, who recently interviewed for the same position with the Philadelphia Eagles.
SOURCES: #USC OC Graham Harrell, who was a candidate to be the offensive coordinator of the #Eagles, is expected to remain with the Trojans, sources tell me & @AntonioCMorales.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) January 20, 2020
This should be positive news all around for USC. Orlando has improved things at both Houston and Texas, though the situation with the Longhorns deteriorated in 2019 and led to his firing. He’s currently serving as a defensive assistant with Texas Tech.
Harrell likely stays after it looked like the Eagles might poach him, and given his success with freshman quarterback Kedon Slovis this past season, that’s good news as well.
It appears the Trojans will have a solid staff in what might be a do-or-die year for head coach Clay Helton. They’ll be looking to improve on last season’s 8-5 mark.
