USC announced Thursday that John Baxter will return to the Trojans as the special team’s coach. Some expect Chris Partridge to be the Wolverines’ special teams coach next year.
Via the USC press release:
Head coach Clay Helton announced the return of John Baxter as special teams coach after two years away from the program, including last season at Michigan, leading the Wolverines to 12th nationally in ESPN’s special teams efficiency ranking. Baxter served the same post at USC from 2010-13, scheming the Trojans to 24 blocked kicks over that time, ranking Top 15 in the nation every season.
“We are very excited to welcome back John Baxter to our Trojan Family,” said Helton. “He is one of the most respected coaches in our profession at any position. His units have been near the top of the collegiate special team efficiency rankings almost every year. Having worked alongside him in the past, I know Coach Baxter as one of the best teachers and skill developers in football today. We look forward to our special teams rising to greater heights under him.”
Baxter has 34 years of coaching experience, developing a reputation as a special teams guru. He arrived at USC after 13 years at Fresno State and immediately turned the Trojans into an attacking force, blocking seven kicks in 2010 and seven more in 2011. USC was dynamic in the return game as well under Baxter, tying the NCAA record with three punt return touchdowns in one game (2013 vs. Cal).