maturity will shape their legacy in the future.
In a season that has seen the University of Texas Longhorns return to national
prominence, head coach Steve Sarkisian’s comments about the team’s growth
offer a window into how far they’ve come, especially as they navigate the
intensity of the Big 12 Conference. Sarkisian, who took over the helm of the
Longhorns program in 2021, reflected on the maturation process of his
players, particularly in their approach to conference play.
“The players have really grown into this conference,” Sarkisian said during a
recent media briefing. “It wasn’t just about adjusting to the level of play but
also understanding what it takes to be successful in the Big 12. It’s about
physicality, consistency, and a mental toughness that comes from experience.”
For Texas, joining the ranks of the Big 12 presented a challenge that wasn’t
only about physical matchups on the field, but also about adapting to the
league’s culture. Historically, the Big 12 is known for its high-scoring games
and offensive fireworks, but it also demands grit and focus, especially as teams
fight for bowl eligibility and postseason contention each season. The
Longhorns, now in their final year of Big 12 play before they transition to the
SEC, have been learning to navigate these pressures while still pushing for a
College Football Playoff spot.
Sarkisian’s assessment of his team’s growth is both a reflection of individual
player development and a broader team evolution. Under his guidance, key
players have emerged as leaders who understand what it takes to win in the
Big 12, from the defensive line to the quarterback position. Quarterback Quinn
Ewers, for example, has made great strides since his arrival, showing a deeper
understanding of offensive schemes and decision-making that reflects his
maturity.
Sarkisian has also emphasized the importance of mental toughness throughout
the season. “This is a grind,” he noted. “The players have been through tough
situations and learned to not only withstand them but also to thrive under
pressure. That’s what you have to do in this conference. Every team is
competitive, and you can’t take anything for granted. You have to come ready
to fight every week.”
This mental and physical evolution is evident in the Longhorns’ recent
successes. Texas has become one of the most well-rounded teams in the Big 12,
with a potent offense led by Ewers and a defense that has learned to withstand
the pressure of high-scoring contests. Sarkisian’s balanced approach has also
been key to Texas’s success. His offensive scheme, which blends elements of
the West Coast offense with a deep commitment to the run game, has allowed
Texas to keep opponents on their toes while controlling the tempo of games.
On defense, players like defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat and safety Jahari
Rogers have established themselves as key disruptors, making life difficult for
opposing offenses.
However, it’s not just the tactical aspects of the game that have contributed to
Texas’s growth. Sarkisian has also focused on creating a cohesive team culture,
where players hold each other accountable and share the collective goal of
returning Texas football to its former glory. The leadership of veterans like
running back Bijan Robinson (who has since moved on to the NFL) and
linebacker Jaylan Ford, alongside younger stars, has provided the program
with the stability it needs to handle the highs and lows of a long season.
Looking ahead, Sarkisian’s belief in the team’s evolution is clear. As Texas
prepares to make its exit from the Big 12 and enter the SEC, the lessons
learned in the grind of this conference will prove invaluable. In his eyes, the
success of Texas football is no longer just about recruiting five-star talent or
individual accolades; it’s about the maturity and preparation required to be
successful in one of the most competitive environments in college football.
“Every game has a meaning,” Sarkisian concluded. “It’s not just about
winning; it’s about learning and growing, and these guys have done that.
They’ve really grown into this conference, and it’s exciting to see how that
growth is paying off.”
As the Longhorns close out their final Big 12 season, Sarkisian’s optimism
about the future of the program is rooted in the foundation his players have
laid. Their development, both on and off the field, marks the beginning of a
new era for Texas football, one where resilience, grit, and maturity will define
their legacy in the years to come.
