Hutchings talks change at USC
Michael Hutchings was disappointed to hear the news that assistant head coach Monte Kiffin planned to resign from the USC staff but said it would not influence his commitment at all.
The Concord (Calif.) De La Salle four-star outside linebacker is more focused on which coach will be hired and whether the defense will be changed.
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That seems to be more crucial to Hutchings, who said he's definitely sticking with the Trojans.
"It's not too big of a deal," Hutchings said. "The biggest thing for me is sticking with the 4-3, that's one main concern. If they bring in another great defensive line coach that might be an even bigger attraction to recruits, too.
"I love coach Monte. He was great, it is unfortunate but there's no immediate reaction until I see who they're bringing in or what defense they're going to be sticking, too.
"I would prefer them in the 4-3. It's not that big of a deal to me. I'll be going there for sure no matter the defense."
After a disappointing season, Monte Kiffin is the first assistant coach to resign amid calls for changes. But Hutchings said he likes how the linebackers have been utilized in the USC defense and he hopes there aren't drastic changes coming.
"I fit better with what they're doing right now, the outside 'backers, as speedy outside guys but it isn't really a big deal to me," Hutchings said.
Rivals.com rates Hutchings as the eighth-best outside linebacker and the No. 55 prospect in the 2013 class.
He's been committed to USC since July 1 and has never given any indication, even through a difficult season for the Trojans, that he was wavering on his pledge.