Clay Helton's ability to keep USC on even keel has early beginnings

Clay Helton talks to his offensive linemen during the first half of a 42-24 victory over Utah on Oct. 24. (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press) Kim Helton experienced or saw just about everything during a 40-year coaching career that included a stint as head coach at the University of Houston and three decades as a college and pro assistant.

But he was never an interim head coach.

So when his son, Clay, took on that title at USC, Kim Helton offered no advice other than to be himself.

"The only thing I ever talk to Clay about is offensive line play and pass protections," Kim Helton said.

His father's influence — and those of coaches he grew up around, played for and coached with — has helped Clay…