As the Allstate Red River Rivalry game approaches, the pressure intensifies on Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian. Expectations for Texas were high heading into the season, but after two losses, the mood has shifted. Arch Manning, once a heralded newcomer, finds himself under scrutiny as Texas strives to regain momentum in the College Football Playoff race.
Texas Longhorns Under Pressure
What began as the preseason favorite, Texas now faces a challenging landscape. The Longhorns are seeking redemption in their matchup at the Cotton Bowl. The team’s struggles have shifted the focus onto Sarkisian’s coaching and Manning’s performance.
Criticism of Performance
Steve Sarkisian acknowledged the external noise surrounding the team’s performances. “We’ve got to focus on us,” he stated, indicating the internal address needs to overcome such distractions. Manning, in particular, must improve his play as he has fallen to 39th in the FBS passer rating.
- Touchdown-to-interception ratio: 8:2 against Group of 5 opponents.
- 3:3 ratio against Power 4 teams, including Ohio State.
Challenges with Team Composition
Texas faced significant issues in its offensive line after losing three starters to the NFL draft. The lack of depth was exacerbated by poor decisions not to utilize the transfer portal effectively. Regrettably, a top offensive lineman, Isaiah World, found success at Oregon after choosing not to join Texas.
Comparative Recruitment Strategies
Across the state, Texas Tech aggressively pursued talent to strengthen its roster. Their commitment contrasts sharply with Texas’s lack of recruitment for both offensive and defensive linemen, despite the resources available.
- Highlighted Texas Tech signings: Howard Sampson and Will Jados.
- Texas failed to secure receivers like Mario Craver and CJ Daniels.
Potential for Redemption
The upcoming game against Oklahoma represents an opportunity for Texas and Sarkisian to change narratives. Success could inspire fan support and rejuvenate the team’s prospects for the season ahead.
With Oklahoma’s defense yielding just over a touchdown per game, Texas must showcase progress on offense. A victory in this high-stakes rivalry could shift the focus from pressure to potential, signaling that hopes for the season remain alive.
As the season nears its midpoint, the Longhorns must address their shortcomings quickly. Failure to improve may intensify scrutiny on Sarkisian, highlighting the need for better coaching and player performance moving forward.
