Tommie Robinson returns to USC staff as running backs coach

USC’s coaching staff continues to take on a 2013 feel.

Tommie Robinson, the Trojans’ running backs coach in 2013, is returning to the staff as running backs coach and run-game coordinator, Coach Clay Helton announced Tuesday.

Robinson, 52, coached running backs at Texas the last two seasons.

“We are thrilled to welcome back Tommie Robinson to the Trojan Family,” Helton said in a statement. “He is one of the most respected running back coaches in our profession. ... I have had the good fortune to work with Tommie on two different occasions, at USC and at Memphis, and have seen firsthand how he develops young men both on and off the field. He is a true professional and a terrific recruiter.”

Helton also announced that Johnny Nansen, USC’s running backs coach the last two seasons, will coach linebackers and also serve as recruiting coordinator. Nansen played linebacker at Washington State and coached the position group at Idaho from 2004 to 2006.

Tyson Helton, who was hired earlier this month as the running backs coach and pass-game coordinator, will coach quarterbacks.

John Baxter, hired as special teams coordinator, also will coach tight ends.

Helton has yet to hire a defensive line coach.

Robinson was hired by former Trojans coach Lane Kiffin before the 2013 season. He helped Javorius Allen emerge as a star that season, when USC overcame the midseason firing of Kiffin and played well under interim coach Ed Orgeron and then Helton.

Robinson was not retained after Steve Sarkisian was hired as USC’s head coach.

Robinson coached running backs for the Arizona Cardinals before his first stint at USC. He also has coached at the University of Miami, Memphis, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma State, Utah State, Texas Christian and Arkansas and in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys.

Robinson, who played safety at Troy State, is one of several members of the 2013 Trojans staff who have returned to USC, including defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast and Baxter.

Follow Gary Klein on Twitter @LATimesKlein