Following a 5-7 season followed by an 8-5 one, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian, speaking on Ryan Clarkâs The Pivot podcast last April, expressed a different sentiment about his team in 2023.
He remarked, “The team now embodies what I envision. The players’ demeanor, conduct, physicality, and practice intensity all align with my vision of how we should operate.”
Sarkisian’s confidence wasn’t unfounded; he has experience with championship-caliber teams, having been part of USC’s 2003 national title-winning coaching staff and coordinating Alabama’s offense during their 2021 championship run.
With impressive recruiting classes in 2022 and 2023, Sarkisian overhauled the Longhorns roster to mirror the elite teams he’d been part of before.
The results were evident as Texas boasted a 12-1 regular-season record, clinched the Big 12 title, and secured their first-ever College Football Playoff berth.
As they transition to the SEC, Sarkisian maintains optimism about the 2024 team’s makeup.
He noted, “Our team looks formidable. We’ve undergone significant roster turnover, with only a handful of players remaining from the previous regime.”
Sarkisian highlighted the team’s physical attributes, emphasizing length, speed, and versatility across positions. Notable mentions include Jaydon Blue’s exceptional speed at running back and the addition of speedy wide receiver Isaiah Bond.
The team’s depth and physicality are evident, with players like Derek Williams and Xavier Filsaime showcasing impressive physical attributes in the secondary.
Quarterback depth is a strength, with experienced Quinn Ewers leading alongside promising talents like Arch Manning and Trey Owens.
In the linebacker corps, Anthony Hill Jr. stands out for his versatility and pass-rushing prowess.
Sarkisian’s approach prioritizes long-term solutions over short-term fixes, focusing on high school recruits rather than relying heavily on the transfer portal.
He emphasized the intentional construction of the team over multiple years, aiming for consistency and sustainability rather than quick fixes.
As they hit the practice field, the Longhorns appear to embody Sarkisian’s vision physically and mentally. Now, they must translate that potential into on-field success and uphold the standards set by the 2023 team.
