Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has made significant strides in building a program that is ready to compete at the highest level in college football. With the 2024 season fast approaching, Sarkisian’s focus is squarely on improving the depth and leadership across all positions, ensuring that the Texas Longhorns are poised for sustained success. The future of the program under his leadership looks bright, and his strategic emphasis on these two areas will be critical to achieving his goals of national prominence and eventual championship contention.
One of the primary focuses of Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy has been the development of depth across every position group. The importance of depth cannot be overstated, especially in the highly competitive environment of the Big 12 and with the looming transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Having a deep roster not only provides protection against injuries, but it also creates healthy competition within the team, which can lead to improved performance across the board.
Sarkisian’s commitment to building depth has been evident in his recruiting efforts. Since his arrival at Texas, he has secured top-tier talent at nearly every position. His ability to recruit high school stars as well as transfer portal players has allowed him to stack talent, ensuring that Texas no longer has significant drop-offs between starters and backups. This increased depth provides flexibility, especially in crucial moments during games, where fresh legs and rested players can make a difference.
Moreover, depth at every position is key to building a program that can compete in the SEC, where the level of physicality and competition is second to none. Whether it’s on the defensive line, at wide receiver, or in the secondary, Texas needs capable players ready to step up when called upon. Sarkisian’s philosophy is not just to recruit depth, but also to develop players so that they are prepared to contribute when needed. His staff emphasizes development through practice and in-game experience, ensuring that even the backup players are ready to perform at a high level when they take the field.
Alongside depth, Sarkisian is placing a major emphasis on cultivating leadership within the team. In a sport like football, having strong leadership both on and off the field is paramount. Leaders not only guide their teammates but also set the tone for the team’s overall mentality and culture. Sarkisian recognizes that leadership comes from both veterans and rising stars, and he has been diligent in creating an environment where these leaders can thrive.
The Texas Longhorns will need a strong leadership core to contend for championships, and Sarkisian has worked hard to build that foundation. He has encouraged upperclassmen to take on leadership roles and mentor the younger players, helping to foster a sense of unity and purpose within the locker room. At the same time, Sarkisian has placed trust in younger players, giving them opportunities to lead by example and take on key roles, even in their early years at Texas.
On the offensive side of the ball, Texas boasts dynamic players like quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has shown the potential to develop into a leader both on the field and in the locker room. The running back corps and wide receiver group, led by experienced seniors and talented sophomores, also have their own leadership figures, ensuring that the offense remains cohesive and focused on executing Sarkisian’s playbook.
On the defensive side, leaders like linebacker Jaylan Ford and defensive linemen have emerged as crucial figures. These players not only produce on the field but also rally the team and set a physical, competitive tone. Leadership on defense is just as critical, as players must communicate effectively and stay disciplined against high-powered offenses.
Looking to the future, Sarkisian’s ability to cultivate depth and leadership is paving the way for championship aspirations. Texas has all the pieces in place to become a perennial contender, but achieving that goal requires the right balance of talent, experience, and mentality. By focusing on both depth and leadership, Sarkisian is building a culture that will help Texas overcome any challenge.
As Texas prepares to make the jump to the SEC in 2024, the stakes are higher than ever. Sarkisian’s work in improving depth and developing leaders will be tested in an even more demanding environment. However, if his strategies prove successful, Texas could emerge as one of the premier programs in college football, with an eye on a national title. The future of Texas football is in capable hands, and the program’s trajectory under Sarkisian’s leadership looks promising.