USC is one of the most elite, revered, and storied programs in college football history. 11 National Championships, 7 Heisman winners, and has played in so many Rose Bowls- I don't want to count.

But aside from the Pete Carroll era, they haven't been great in a long time. They have *elite* talent, a huge market, lots of money, and tons of prestige... and yet, aside from Carroll, they have fired:

Sarkisian- 2014-2015
Kiffin- 2010-2013
Paul Hackett- 1998-2000
John Robinson- 1993-1997
Larry Smith- 1987-1992
Ted Tolner- 1983-1986

John Robinson's first tenure- (1976 to 1982)- when he chose to leave, to coach the LA Rams- was the last (aside from Carroll) coach who wasn't fired. He won the NC in 1978.

What is the problem? Why do they have such a hard time luring an elite coach to stay there, and develop the elite talent into NC contention?

In my opinion, one of their bigger problems- right now- is their AD. (Lynn Swann is a good guy, but a bad AD.) But he's only been there a few years.

Is it the proximity to Hollywood, and the distractions associated with that?

Is it that their fans just have super high expectations, and no patience?

It just baffles my mind.