Texas HC Steve Sarkisian Responds to Rose Bowl Evacuation Warning Amid Los Angeles Fires: “I Personally Can’t Stand to Lose”
The college football world was shaken on Thursday as wildfires spreading across Los Angeles prompted an evacuation warning for the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. The developing crisis comes as Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and his Longhorns prepare to play in the historic venue, adding an unexpected layer of tension to the high-stakes matchup. Sarkisian’s heartfelt response to the unfolding situation—”I personally can’t stand to lose”—has captured attention, showcasing the emotional weight he carries for his team and the challenges posed by the natural disaster.
This article explores the circumstances surrounding the evacuation warning, Sarkisian’s emotional statement, and the broader implications for the Rose Bowl and the Texas program.
Southern California is no stranger to wildfire seasons, but the recent outbreak has escalated rapidly due to dry conditions and high winds. The fires, which started earlier this week, have consumed thousands of acres and forced residents in nearby communities to flee their homes.
On Thursday morning, the Pasadena Fire Department issued an evacuation warning for areas surrounding the Rose Bowl, citing concerns about air quality, accessibility, and potential danger to visitors and residents. While the stadium itself has not yet been directly impacted, the warning has prompted widespread concern about the safety of hosting a major event in the area.
Steve Sarkisian, a former USC head coach with deep ties to Southern California, did not shy away from expressing his personal connection to the situation. During a press conference addressing the ongoing crisis, Sarkisian acknowledged the severity of the fires while emphasizing his focus on leading his team through the uncertainty.
“I have so much love for this region, and seeing it affected like this is heartbreaking,” Sarkisian said. “But at the same time, I personally can’t stand to lose—not just on the field, but in terms of overcoming adversity. We’ve prepared for this game, and we’re going to face whatever challenges come our way.”
Sarkisian’s comment reflects not only his competitive spirit but also his determination to guide his team through unforeseen obstacles. The Longhorns are no strangers to adversity, having navigated a grueling season filled with injuries, tough matchups, and high expectations.
The Rose Bowl is more than just a stadium—it’s a symbol of college football tradition and excellence. Hosting the “Granddaddy of Them All” each year, the venue has been the site of countless historic moments in the sport’s history.
However, the evacuation warning raises questions about the feasibility of holding major events in areas increasingly impacted by climate-related disasters. If the fires worsen, it could force officials to relocate or postpone the game, a scenario that would have significant logistical and emotional ramifications for both teams and fans.
For Texas, the Rose Bowl represents a chance to solidify its resurgence under Sarkisian, who has revitalized the program since taking over in 2021. A win in this storied venue would be a major milestone for the Longhorns and their quest to return to college football’s elite.
The situation in Los Angeles is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters to the sports world. From wildfire smoke impacting outdoor games to hurricanes disrupting schedules, teams and leagues are increasingly forced to adapt to unpredictable circumstances.
In recent years, the NCAA and professional sports leagues have developed contingency plans to address such challenges, but the human toll of these events remains a pressing concern. Sarkisian’s comments highlight the intersection of sports, community, and resilience in the face of adversity.
As the fires continue to spread, officials are closely monitoring the situation to determine whether the Rose Bowl can safely host upcoming events. For Texas, the uncertainty only adds to the stakes of an already pivotal game.
Sarkisian’s statement—equal parts defiant and empathetic—captures the essence of what it means to lead in difficult times. “We’re here to play football, but we’re also here to represent something bigger than ourselves,” he said. “Whether it’s on the field or off, we’re going to give it everything we’ve got.”
The coming days will reveal whether the Rose Bowl game can proceed as planned, but one thing is certain: the Texas Longhorns, under Sarkisian’s leadership, are prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead with determination and heart.