While the team prepares for its bowl game under interim head coach Clay Helton, Sarkisian will hit the recruiting trail looking for a coaching staff and the nation's top high school seniors. He plans to bring an uptempo offense to USC that is run-heavy like Washington's No. 8 ranked offense this season.More than anything, Sarkisian made it clear that he understands the culture and expectations at USC. "We are here to win championships," he said. "I came here to win championships, and so did all these players."
Athletic Director Pat Haden reiterated his thanks to Ed Orgeron calling him "one of the greatest Trojans of them all," but he has faith that Sarkisian is the man for the future of Troy. "[Sarkisian] is uniquely positioned to have the smoothest, fastest, cleanest transition for our program," Haden said.
Last night, Sarkisian kicked out all staffers and administrators to speak to the team alone. He began the process of building trust with his players and creating a family atmosphere.
"It's been a roller coaster ride, but today's an exciting day," said junior CB Josh Shaw. "We embrace him and look forward to playing for him."
Sarkisian has earned a reputation as one of the nation's most accomplished quarterback mentors guiding the young careers of Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, Mark Sanchez and Jake Locker. Now, he inherits Cody Kessler who he recruited heavily to Washington.
"Sark is a QB guy, and he's coached some of the greatest in 'SC history," said Kessler. "I'm excited to play for him."
And finally, Sarkisian knows that he has to win over the fans who greeted the news of his hiring with mixed reviews. "Our loyal fan base will get a brand of football to make them proud to be Trojans," Sarkisian said. "We will earn their respect."
Here is the complete press conference featuring Pat Haden and Steve Sarkisian...
