College football week 7 overreactions: Big changes needed at Texas with former No. 1 Longhorns in freefall
Is Sarkisian’s dual role hurting the team’s performance?
Steve Sarkisian faces mounting pressure to fix Texas football after a second straight loss to unranked Florida exposed deep flaws in the Longhorns’ offense. The defeat in Austin marked another embarrassing setback for a program that began the season with high expectations but now struggles to move the ball consistently. Sarkisian must confront systemic issues that have left Texas searching for answers midway through the season.
The Longhorns’ offensive struggles are not new, but the loss to Florida highlighted a lack of creativity and execution in play-calling. Sarkisian, who also serves as offensive coordinator, has come under scrutiny for predictable schemes and an inability to adapt during games. Texas managed just 246 total yards against the Gators, with the offense stalled by penalties, sacks, and missed opportunities. Former No. 1 ranking now feels like a distant memory as the team falls further behind in the Big 12 race.
What specific changes could spark a turnaround?
Holding both head coach and offensive coordinator positions has limited Sarkisian’s ability to manage the game effectively. Critics argue he is too focused on scripted plays and not adjusting to defensive looks in real time. The Longhorns have averaged under 20 points per game in their last two outings, a stark drop from their early-season output. Players have shown flashes of talent, but cohesion and timing remain off. Sarkisian admitted after the Florida game that „we didn’t execute when it mattered,” signaling frustration but offering few concrete solutions.
Short-term fixes may include delegating play-calling to an assistant to free Sarkisian for broader game management. Long-term, Texas might need to reevaluate its offensive personnel and scheme fit, particularly at quarterback and along the offensive line. The transfer portal and upcoming recruiting cycle could provide opportunities to reshape the roster. However, any shift must happen quickly, as the Longhorns risk falling out of contention for a major bowl game if trends continue. The next few weeks will test whether Sarkisian can lead the necessary overhaul or if deeper structural changes are unavoidable.
Why did Texas lose to Florida despite being ranked higher? Texas lost due to offensive inefficiency, including penalties, sacks, and poor red-zone execution. Florida’s defense forced three turnovers and held the Longhorns to just 17 points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Steve Sarkisian likely to call plays for the rest of the season? There is growing speculation that Sarkisian may hand over play-calling duties to an assistant, though no official announcement has been made. The decision could come after further evaluation of offensive performance.
Can Texas still salvage its season? Yes, but only with immediate improvement on offense and fewer mistakes. The Longhorns still have winnable games left on their schedule, but they must close the gap in execution and consistency to remain competitive.