USC Coach Clay Helton apologizes for ‘not being glitzy’

Acknowledging that he was not a glitzy candidate, Clay Helton was formally introduced as USC’s permanent head coach on Monday during a news conference at the McKay Center.

“I totally understand the high bar of excellence and expectations that come with the job,” said Helton, who has guided the Trojans to a 5-2 record since taking over for the fired Steve Sarkisian.

The Trojans, who defeated UCLA last week, play Stanford in the Pac-12 Conference title game on Saturday at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

Athletic Director Pat Haden said Helton received a five-year contract. Terms were not disclosed.

Haden described Helton as a leader, teacher and mentor.

“We have a man with undisputed integrity,” Haden said.

Helton said he understood that some fans wanted a bigger-name coach for the Trojans.

“Sometimes the right choice is not always the easy choice,” he said. “I understand I’m not a flashy name.”

He later added: “I apologize for not being glitzy, but I believe that blue-collar toughness is what wins championships.”

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After the news conference, Haden said he interviewed several potential candidates, but he declined to name them. Asked if he had interviewed Philadelphia Eagles Coach Chip Kelly, he said no.

Haden said he conducted a four-hour interview with Helton several weeks ago and then again on Sunday.

“We needed a reboot,” Haden said. “He’s really changed the culture in his seven weeks.”

Twitter: @LATimesklein

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