With the naming of John Baxter as special teams coordinator, the USC coaching staff is finally complete. But as USC formalizes things with an announcement, it’s who isn’t the defensive coordinator that’s surprising.
Ed Orgeron, not Monte Kiffin, has been named defensive coordinator. The elder Kiffin has been named assistant head coach, while Orgeron holds the titles of defensive coordinator, recruiting coordinator, and defensive line coach.
The move is likely symbolic, as I’d imagine Monte will call the defensive signals while Orgeron will focus much of his time on recruiting and coaching up the defensive front. But, Kiffin, who turned 70-years-old last week, can’t be expected to stay forever, and naming Orgeron coordinator will give the former Ole Miss head coach a nice title bump, while also making it clear he’s the heir apparent to the defensive.