According to multiple repots, the University of Southern California (USC) will name Pat Haden as its new athletic director (AD). Haden will reportedly replace Mike Garrett on August 3, and the old AD will take a retirement package from the school.
Garrett has been USC’s AD for 17 years, but despite having a lot of success with both the football and basketball programs, his job was considered in jeopardy after the school was hit with numerous NCAA violations this past June.
Among the penalties handed down by the college sports governing body were: a two-year bowl ban, a reduction of scholarships and a forfeiture of wins. The punishment came as a result of allegations that former football star, Reggie Bush, received improper benefits. On top of that, the men’s basketball program announced a self-imposed postseason ban this past year after investigations involving rule violations relating to O.J. Mayo.
During his time as a star quarterback for USC Garrett was a Heisman Trophy winner. Haden’s resume, however, isn’t too shabby either. While attending the school from 1972-74 he was a Rhodes Scholar and a two-time academic All-American. He has also been a member of the USC Board of Trustees.
Haden later spent time as quarterback of the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams from 1976-81.
The official announcement on Garret’s departure and replacement is expected to come Tuesday.
Thanks to our friends at Chargers Odds
