Texas Football: Steve Sarkisian Criticizes Report on NFL Future
Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas Longhorns, recently reacted strongly to speculation regarding his future in the NFL. After a thrilling 45-38 overtime victory against the Mississippi State Bulldogs on October 25, 2025, in Starkville, Mississippi, Sarkisian addressed rumors suggesting he might consider an NFL role, specifically with the Tennessee Titans, who had recently fired their head coach.
Texas Longhorns Secures Major Win Amid Coaching Speculations
The Longhorns’ comeback against the Bulldogs marked a significant achievement, allowing them to keep their postseason hopes alive. This game saw Texas rally from a 31-14 deficit, representing their largest comeback since a similar feat in 2007. The win also extended their streak of consecutive overtime victories.
Sarkisian Defends His Position
In a passionate postgame interview, Sarkisian criticized a report from The Athletic that had suggested he might be open to taking an NFL position. This assertion incited a fierce response from Sarkisian, who claimed the story was “patently false” and “wildly inaccurate.”
He indicated that such reports could disrupt team morale, stating, “I had to put a statement out to protect my locker room and my team.” His agents, Jimmy Sexton and Ed Marynowitz, also released a statement disputing the claims made against him.
Key Player Performances
While the talk of Sarkisian’s potential exit dominated the narrative, it was the performances of Texas players that played a crucial role in this significant victory. Quarterback Arch Manning shone with 346 passing yards and four total touchdowns, showcasing his abilities in a crucial matchup.
- Ryan Niblett: His late 79-yard punt return helped force overtime.
- Matthew Caldwell: The backup quarterback delivered the decisive pass to Emmett Mosley V in overtime.
- Defensive Stand: Despite a challenging day, the defense remained resilient, preventing the Bulldogs from scoring on their final four possessions.
- Ryan Wingo: Contributed five catches for 184 yards.
Following this victory, the Longhorns now hold a 3-1 record in the league, tied for third place in the conference. Their upcoming match against Vanderbilt will be critical, especially considering they will play at home for the first time in 42 days.
Looking Ahead
If Texas can defeat Vanderbilt, they will strengthen their position in a competitive conference with several ranked teams, including Georgia and Texas A&M, still to face in November. As Sarkisian stated, the team must stay focused and continue building on their recent successes.
Despite the swirling rumors about his future, it appears Steve Sarkisian is dedicated to Texas football. The Longhorns aim to carry this momentum through the remainder of the season and compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
