Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the media ahead of the highly anticipated SEC Championship Game, where the Longhorns will face the defending champion Georgia Bulldogs. Sarkisian touched on a variety of topics, including the significance of the game, the state of his team, and the recent player suspensions that have drawn headlines. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything he shared during the press conference.
Sarkisian opened by emphasizing the magnitude of the SEC Championship Game and the challenge that awaits his team against Georgia, a powerhouse program with a storied history of success.
> “This is what you dream about when you play in the SEC. It’s the best of the best. To compete on this stage against a team like Georgia is a testament to the work we’ve put in as a program,” Sarkisian said. “They’re incredibly well-coached, physical on both sides of the ball, and have depth at every position. We know we’ll have to be at our absolute best.”
Sarkisian highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and discipline, particularly when facing a team as fundamentally sound as Georgia.
> “They don’t beat themselves. That’s one of the things that stands out on film. For us, it’s about execution and not making the kind of mistakes that can turn a game like this.”
Sarkisian reflected on Texas’ journey to its first SEC Championship appearance since joining the conference. The Longhorns, who finished the regular season with an impressive 11-1 record, have exceeded expectations in their inaugural SEC campaign.
> “When we moved to the SEC, there were a lot of questions about how we’d adapt. I think our guys have done an incredible job embracing the challenge,” Sarkisian said. “This season has been a testament to their hard work, resilience, and belief in what we’re building.”
He also credited his coaching staff for their role in navigating a tough schedule and preparing the team each week.
> “I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: I have one of the best staffs in college football. The way they’ve prepared these guys every week is a big reason we’re here today.”
When asked about the suspension of two players due to misconduct, Sarkisian did not shy away from addressing the issue.
> “This is never an easy decision, especially with so much on the line, but our program has a standard that everyone must meet,” he said. “We talk all the time about accountability and representing the University of Texas the right way. When those standards aren’t met, there are consequences.”
Sarkisian declined to go into specifics about the incident but emphasized that the focus remains on the players who will take the field.
> “We have a strong locker room, and our leadership is as good as it’s ever been. I trust our guys to rise to the occasion.”
Sarkisian praised quarterback Quinn Ewers for his growth throughout the season, calling him the “heartbeat” of the offense.
> “Quinn’s leadership has been phenomenal. His preparation, his poise, and his ability to deliver in big moments have been critical for us all year,” Sarkisian said.
He also highlighted the importance of winning the battle in the trenches against Georgia’s dominant defensive front.
> “It starts up front. Their defensive line is as good as any in the country, and our offensive line will have to be up to the challenge. That’s where this game will be won or lost.”
Sarkisian closed by reflecting on what an SEC Championship would mean for Texas as a program.
> “This game is a chance to prove that we belong at the top of college football. It’s about more than just a trophy—it’s about showing the country what Texas football is all about,” Sarkisian said. “Our fans have waited a long time for this, and we want to make them proud.”
As the Longhorns gear up for their showdown with Georgia, Sarkisian’s comments reflect a sense of confidence and determination. He made it clear that while the stakes are high, his team is ready to embrace the challenge and leave everything on the field.
The SEC Championship will not only test Texas’ mettle against one of the sport’s premier programs but also serve as a defining moment for Sarkisian and the Longhorns as they seek to cement their place among college football’s elite.