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With the USC Trojans granting head football coach Steve Sarkisian a leave of absence for health reasons, there have been more developments coming out regarding his history of heavy drinking.
According to a report from Scott Wolf of the Los Angeles Daily News, Sarkisian was drunk while coaching the Sept. 28 game at Arizona State.
BREAKING: Some #USC assistant coaches believed Steve Sarkisian was drunk during the Arizona State game on Sept. 26.
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
"His eyes didn't look right, he was too animated,'' said one #USC coach
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
BREAKING: #USC assistants pulled Steve Sarkisian out of player huddle on sideline during Arizona State game. Believed he was not sober
— InsideUSC (@InsideUSC) October 11, 2015
It would explain why Sarkisian seemed extra jovial during the Trojans' 42-14 blowout over the Sun Devils. Sarkisian was seen celebrating heavily with players during the game and was even assessed a sideline warning by officials in the second half for excessive celebration.
USC athletic director Pat Haden asked Sarkisian to take a leave of absence after Sarkisian reportedly arrived at team facilities Sunday morning drunk and in poor health, went missing from practice and then notified Haden of his condition through a phone call. Sarkisian will seek treatment for his condition.
Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Clay Helton will act as interim coach for the second time in two years.
This is a serious matter regarding Sarkisian's personal life, and we wish him nothing but the best of luck and a full recovery. Please save your jokes for another subject, guys.