Ex-UW coach Steve Sarkisian joins Alabama staff as analyst

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Former University of Washington and University of Southern California head coach Steve Sarkisian is joining No. 1 Alabama's staff as an analyst.

Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban confirmed the hiring on Monday, saying that Sarkisian"understands the consequences that he deals with professionally if he has any issues or problems," though he didn't specify what Sarkisian's role will be.

Sarkisian arrived after Alabama's season-opening win over USC.

USC fired Sarkisian last October after he showed up in school in no condition to lead practice following an embarrassing public display earlier at a pep rally where he appeared to be intoxicated while giving a speech.

He later sought treatment for alcoholism and has sued USC alleging the school breached his contract and discriminated against him on the basis of a disability.

Sarkisian served as the head coach at UW from 2009-13, where he led the team to eight wins in his final season.