University of Southern California head football coach Steve Sarkisian has been fired according to multiple reports. Assistant coach Clay Helton will step in as interim head coach for the Trojans.
Athletic Director Pat Haden released a statement on Monday about the decision.
"After careful consideration of what is in the best interest of the university and our student-athletes, I have made the decision to terminate Steve Sarkisian, effective immediately," Haden’s statement read.
"I want to thank Clay Helton for stepping into the interim head coach role, and I want to add how proud I am of our coaching staff and players and the way they are responding to this difficult situation.
"Through all of this we remain concerned for Steve and hope that it will give him the opportunity to focus on his personal well being."
Sarkisian was put on an indefinite leave of absence after showing up visibly hungover to a team meeting Sunday morning.
Earlier this year, Sarkisian was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and painkillers at a charity benefit. He later apologized and agreed to get treatment, but was later suspected of being under the influence of alcohol during the Trojans’ game against Arizona State on Sept. 26.
The 41-year-old is currently going through a divorce and the situation could have something to do with the coach's recent behavior.
The 3-2 Trojans face a brutal stretch against three ranked teams to close out the month of October.