Breaking news: Steve Sarkisian Fired as Texas Longhorns Head Coach….
In a surprising turn of events, the University of Texas has officially parted ways with head football coach Steve Sarkisian. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from fans and boosters following inconsistent performances during his tenure with the Longhorns.
Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte announced the decision in a statement, thanking Sarkisian for his contributions but emphasizing the need for the program to move in a different direction:
“We are grateful to Steve for his hard work and dedication over the past three seasons. However, as we continue to strive for excellence and meet the high standards of Texas football, we believe it is time for a change. We wish him and his family all the best moving forward.”
Sarkisian’s Tenure at Texas
Sarkisian was hired in January 2021 with the hopes of revitalizing a program that had struggled to reclaim its place among college football’s elite. Coming off a successful stint as offensive coordinator for Alabama, where he helped lead the Crimson Tide to a national championship, Sarkisian was seen as a coach who could bring explosive offense and discipline to the Longhorns.
However, his time in Austin was marked by uneven results. In three seasons, Sarkisian compiled a 19-16 record, including a few signature wins but also several frustrating losses. The team struggled to consistently compete at the highest level, failing to secure a Big 12 Championship appearance or a College Football Playoff berth under his leadership.
While there were flashes of promise—such as a thrilling victory over Alabama early this season—the inconsistency ultimately proved to be Sarkisian’s downfall. Losses to key conference rivals, late-game collapses, and difficulty maintaining momentum in recruiting led to growing dissatisfaction among the Longhorn faithful.
What’s Next for Texas?
The focus now turns to finding a replacement who can restore Texas to national prominence as the program prepares to transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2025. The move to the SEC will bring increased competition, and the Longhorns are determined to find a coach capable of navigating that challenge.
Potential candidates include high-profile names such as Dan Lanning (Oregon), Mike Elko (Duke), and Deion Sanders (Colorado), as well as experienced coordinators looking to step into a marquee head coaching role.
For now, interim coach Jeff Banks, Texas’s special teams coordinator, will lead the team through the remainder of the season. Banks, known for his fiery coaching style and strong rapport with players, will aim to keep the team focused and competitive during the transition.
Sarkisian’s Legacy
Though his tenure ended prematurely, Sarkisian leaves behind a program that still holds immense potential. He played a role in improving facilities and maintaining high recruiting standards, setting the stage for the next head coach to build upon his foundation.
As Sarkisian exits, questions remain about his future in coaching. Given his experience and offensive acumen, he’s likely to remain a sought-after name in the football world, whether at the collegiate or professional level.
The Longhorns, meanwhile, will move forward with renewed determination, knowing that their loyal fanbase demands nothing less than championship contention.
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