USC’s Clay Helton gets emotional over departure of senior Cody Kessler
USC quarterback Cody Kessler is hugged by then-interim Coach Clay Helton following a 41-31 loss to Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., on Oct. 17.
USC Coach Clay Helton says he’s not an emotional man but he admits he’s been a bit choked up recently because of the pending departure of fifth-year senior Cody Kessler.
“I’ve already cried about three times,” Helton said Tuesday, with a chuckle. “You’re talking about a member of my family.”
Helton spent two years recruiting Kessler at Bakersfield Centennial High before becoming Kessler’s quarterback coach for five seasons.
Since his freshman season in 2011, Kessler has been through five coaching changes and has helped to manage several other off-field distractions, most notably former coach Steve Sarkisian’s incident after Salute to Troy in August.
Wednesday’s game against Wisconsin in the Holiday Bowl will provide an opportunity for Kessler to win a third bowl game as the Trojans’ starter.
“All the ups and down and roller-coaster rides and to see the type of player he has become, but even more importantly the type of man he has become, is very rewarding,” Helton said.
Kessler has thrown 28 touchdowns with six interceptions this season.
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