Steve Sarkisian Updates Texas’ Health Ahead of College Football Playoff
The Texas Longhorns are back in the national spotlight after being selected for the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the first time in program history. Riding the momentum of an 12-1 season and a Big 12 Championship victory, the Longhorns will enter the CFP with high expectations. However, as they prepare to face some of the nation’s toughest competition, the health of the team has become a key point of focus.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the media shortly after the selection, providing updates on the Longhorns’ injury situation and the overall status of the team heading into the postseason. Sarkisian expressed optimism about the state of his roster while acknowledging the importance of managing player recovery during this crucial stretch.
Injuries are an inevitable part of football, particularly late in the season when the physical toll is at its peak. Sarkisian was quick to reassure fans that most of the team’s key contributors are trending in the right direction health-wise.
The most pressing question surrounded the status of standout quarterback Quinn Ewers, who missed time earlier in the season with a shoulder injury but returned to lead Texas to a dominant Big 12 title game win. Sarkisian confirmed that Ewers is fully healthy and ready to go.
“Quinn’s in a great spot,” Sarkisian said. “He’s been playing some of his best football down the stretch, and he’s as close to 100% as we could hope for at this point in the season.”
Ewers’ health is critical for Texas’ playoff hopes, as the junior quarterback has been the engine of the Longhorns’ offense. His ability to stretch the field with deep throws and manage the game effectively has been a key factor in the team’s success.
Sarkisian also provided updates on key offensive playmakers, including wide receiver Xavier Worthy and running back Jonathon Brooks, who had been dealing with minor ailments late in the season. Both players are expected to be at full strength for the CFP, giving Texas a potent arsenal of weapons.
“We’ve been smart about how we’ve managed guys like X (Worthy) and Jonathon,” Sarkisian noted. “The time off between the conference championship and the playoff gives us a chance to fine-tune things and make sure everyone is as fresh as possible.”
On the defensive side, Texas has benefited from depth across the board, which has allowed them to withstand injuries without a significant drop-off in production. Defensive lineman T’Vondre Sweat, who has been a disruptive force all year, dealt with some wear and tear late in the season but is expected to play a major role in the playoff.
“Our defense has been outstanding all year, and a big part of that is the depth we’ve developed,” Sarkisian said. “We’ve got a few guys banged up, but nothing that should hold anyone out. T’Vondre and the rest of our front seven are ready for the challenge.”
Sarkisian emphasized the importance of using the time between the Big 12 Championship and the CFP semifinals wisely. The Longhorns have focused on balancing recovery with preparation to ensure that players are both physically and mentally sharp.
“It’s a unique stretch,” Sarkisian explained. “You don’t want to lose the edge you’ve built throughout the season, but at the same time, you have to prioritize recovery. We’ve worked hard to put together a plan that allows us to do both.”
The team’s medical staff and strength coaches have played a critical role in ensuring that players are recovering properly while staying game-ready. Sarkisian credited their efforts, saying, “Our training staff has done a phenomenal job all year. I trust them completely to get our guys ready.”
With the health of key players trending in the right direction, Sarkisian and the Longhorns can fully focus on preparing for their CFP semifinal opponent. Texas enters the playoff as one of the most balanced teams in the field, with an offense capable of scoring at will and a defense that has proven it can hold its own against elite competition.
“Our goal has always been to compete for a national championship, and now we have the opportunity to do that,” Sarkisian said. “We’re excited about the challenge, and we’re confident in the team we’re putting on the field.”
As Texas gears up for its playoff run, fans can take comfort in Sarkisian’s optimism about the team’s health. With Ewers, Worthy, Brooks, and Sweat all ready to contribute, the Longhorns are poised to make a strong push for their first national title since 2005.
In a season filled with milestones and redemption, the Longhorns’ focus remains unshaken. For Sarkisian, the message to his team is clear: “Stay healthy, stay focused, and let’s finish what we started.”