Steve Sarkisian and Texas Football Took a Risk with One Hire That’s Now Very Apparent
When Steve Sarkisian was brought on as the head coach of Texas football in 2021, he promised to restore the Longhorns to national prominence. To achieve this, he needed not only elite talent on the field but also a strong coaching staff capable of executing his vision. While most of his hires were met with approval, one decision stood out as a gamble: the hiring of Paul Chryst as an offensive analyst ahead of the 2024 season.
Months into Chryst’s tenure, the results of this unconventional move are becoming increasingly clear.
Paul Chryst, a seasoned coach with a proven track record, spent seven years as the head coach at Wisconsin, where he compiled a 67-26 record and won multiple Big Ten West titles. Known for his conservative, run-heavy offensive philosophy, Chryst’s style stood in stark contrast to Sarkisian’s more dynamic and modern offensive approach.
After being dismissed by Wisconsin in 2022, Chryst largely faded from the coaching spotlight. His addition to Texas’s staff in 2024 raised eyebrows, as analysts questioned how his traditional mindset would fit within Sarkisian’s innovative, quarterback-centric system.
Chryst was not hired as a coordinator or position coach but as an offensive analyst, a role designed to offer strategic input without direct play-calling responsibilities. While this allowed Sarkisian to maintain control of the offense, it also meant integrating a coach with a vastly different offensive background into a staff already built around Sarkisian’s philosophy.
The biggest concern with Chryst’s hire was whether his approach would align with the explosive offense Sarkisian had built at Texas. Under Sarkisian, the Longhorns relied on up-tempo schemes, pre-snap motion, and a pass-heavy attack that emphasized quarterback play. Chryst, by contrast, built his reputation at Wisconsin with power running games, tight-end-heavy formations, and clock management strategies.
The question wasn’t Chryst’s competence—his success at Wisconsin spoke for itself—but whether his presence would create friction within a coaching staff that thrived on creativity and adaptability
As the 2024 season unfolded, Chryst’s impact became more noticeable. His influence was most evident in Texas’s renewed commitment to balancing their offense. While Sarkisian’s play-calling remained the cornerstone of the team’s identity, Chryst’s insights into situational football, particularly in short-yardage and red-zone scenarios, have paid dividends.
Texas’s rushing attack, which had been inconsistent in previous seasons, saw significant improvement. Behind standout running back Jonathon Brooks and an improved offensive line, the Longhorns developed a more physical running game that complemented their high-octane passing attack. Chryst’s emphasis on discipline and fundamentals added a new layer to Texas’s offense, allowing them to control games against tough opponents.
However, there have also been growing pains. In a midseason loss to Oklahoma, critics pointed to a lack of aggressiveness in late-game play-calling, which some attributed to the influence of Chryst’s more conservative tendencies. While Sarkisian remained the primary play-caller, the integration of Chryst’s ideas occasionally appeared to slow down the offense’s rhythm.
Despite some initial challenges, the gamble to bring in Chryst seems to be paying off. His ability to offer a fresh perspective has enhanced Sarkisian’s offense, making it more versatile and less predictable. The Longhorns have shown they can adapt their approach depending on the opponent, a critical factor in their push for a College Football Playoff berth.
Chryst’s presence has also had a positive impact off the field. Players and coaches have praised his attention to detail and his ability to mentor younger staff members, contributing to a more cohesive coaching unit. His experience as a former head coach has proven invaluable in helping Sarkisian navigate high-pressure situations.
Steve Sarkisian’s decision to hire Paul Chryst was undoubtedly a risk, but it’s one that has added depth and adaptability to the Longhorns’ offense. While Chryst’s conservative tendencies initially raised concerns, his expertise has helped Texas develop a more balanced and physical identity, making them a more complete team.
As the Longhorns continue their pursuit of a national championship, the partnership between Sarkisian and Chryst will be a storyline to watch. If Texas can capitalize on the strengths of both coaches’ philosophies, they may well be on their way to reclaiming their place among college football’s elite.
For now, it’s clear that Sarkisian’s gamble is yielding results, proving that sometimes, taking a calculated risk is necessary to achieve greatness.