USC Trojans Athletic Director Pat Haden leaving College Football Playoff committee for health reasons

Pursuant to the advice of his doctors, USC Trojans Athletic Director Pat Haden is no longer on the College Football Playoff Committee. The Executive Director of the College Football Playoff, Bill Hancock, announced the news today.

Here is the full release from Pat Haden:

"I am reluctant to step down, but my doctors advised me to reduce my traveling," said Haden, director of athletics at the University of Southern California. "With the weekly CFP meetings about to start and the travel commitment involved, I had to make this difficult decision. I feel it is in the best interest of the CFP and also of USC, with our current football coaching change and our upcoming Coliseum renovation."

"It was an honor to serve on the College Football Playoff Selection Committee. I have such high regard for the CFP process and for the committee members, who devote such time and energy to the great sport of college football. It was a pleasure to serve alongside them. I want to thank the committee members, as well as CFP executive director Bill Hancock and his staff. They all do wonderful work."

It has been an eventful time for Pat Haden with the firing of Steve Sarkisian, the critical search for a new head football coach, and his recent health problems. No word yet on whether Haden will also relinquish other responsibilities as the USC Athletic Director.

The College Football Playoff Committee will work shorthanded for the rest of the season releasing their first rankings on November 3rd.