In a surprising development, the University of Texas has announced the termination of Steve Sarkisian as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team. This decision comes on the heels of several significant events that have unfolded over the past months, culminating in the university’s choice to seek new leadership for its storied football program.
Steve Sarkisian, who took the helm in January 2021, led the Longhorns through a period of both challenges and notable achievements. Under his guidance, the team secured back-to-back appearances in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals, a testament to the program’s resurgence on the national stage. However, these accomplishments were overshadowed by critical moments that raised concerns among university leadership and the Longhorns’ passionate fan base.
A pivotal incident occurred during the recent Cotton Bowl, where Texas faced Ohio State. With the game hanging in the balance, the Longhorns advanced to the Buckeyes’ 1-yard line, poised to tie the score. Controversially, Sarkisian called for a lateral play that resulted in a significant loss of yardage. Subsequent plays failed to recover the momentum, leading to a turnover that Ohio State capitalized on, ultimately sealing the game in their favor. This sequence not only cost Texas the game but also ignited widespread criticism of Sarkisian’s decision-making under pressure.
Additionally, the offseason witnessed a notable exodus of key coaching staff. Terry Joseph, the secondary coach, departed for a position with the New Orleans Saints, following the earlier exits of Tashard Choice to the Detroit Lions and Blake Gideon to Georgia Tech. Such turnover within the coaching ranks raised questions about internal dynamics and the program’s stability under Sarkisian’s leadership.
Financial considerations also played a role in the university’s decision. Sarkisian’s contract extension, approved in February 2024, included a substantial salary increase, making any potential buyout a significant financial undertaking. However, the university’s commitment to maintaining the football program’s prestige necessitated decisive action, despite the financial implications.
The search for Sarkisian’s successor is expected to be swift and comprehensive. Athletic Director Chris Del Conte is reportedly evaluating potential candidates, aiming to bring in leadership that can build upon the team’s recent successes while addressing the shortcomings that led to this decision. The university remains committed to its student-athletes and supporters, striving to restore confidence and chart a new course for Texas Longhorns football.
As this story develops, further updates will shed light on the university’s plans and the future direction of the Longhorns’ football program.
