LOS ANGELES — John Morton, Southern California's passing coordinator, was hired as the offensive coordinator for the Trojans on Friday.

Morton replaces Steve Sarkisian, who was hired this month as head coach for the Washington Huskies.

The 39-year-old Morton joined USC two seasons ago as wide receivers coach after spending 2006 as an assistant coach for the New Orleans Saints.

He also spent eight seasons in several capacities with the Oakland Raiders before becoming passing game and wide receivers coach at the University of San Diego in 2005.

"We brought in John a few years ago for exactly this opportunity," USC coach Pete Carroll said.

Morton will still serve as wide receivers coach. Carroll said Morton's responsibilities as offensive coordinator — including whether he calls plays — will be determined in the offseason.