After coming to USC as a five-star jewel of USC’s 2010 recruiting class and the No. 1 running back in the country, Dillon Baxter‘s time with the Trojans has been, to be kind, a roller coaster ride.
From drawing on-field comparisons to Reggie Bush to a suspension to a golf cart ride with an agent to admitting he hadn’t given a full effort since coming to the school, Baxter’s career has been marked by many more downs than ups. And now, it appears, the talented back has hit rock bottom.
Just four days after he didn’t make the trip with the team to Notre Dame -- reportedly because the birth of his child was imminent -- Baxter is no longer a member of the Trojans football team. Head coach Lane Kiffin made the announcement via a statement.
“The decision has been made for Dillon Baxter to focus on his academics,” Kiffin said. “As he does so, he will not be part of our football program. However, we will continue to support him with our academic services department.
“There will be no further comment regarding this from me or any member of our program.”
It remains unclear whether Baxter will opt to transfer from USC or if, once his academic house is in order, he would be welcomed back to the Trojans football family.
In one-plus season at the school, Baxter has 68 carries for 281 and a lone touchdown. This season, it’s just nine carries for 29 yards.