Texas Longhorns’ Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Defends Decision-Making in Cotton Bowl Loss

Texas Longhorns’ Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Defends Decision-Making in Cotton Bowl Loss

 

Austin, TX – Texas Longhorns’ head coach Steve Sarkisian has been under fire for his decision-making in the team’s recent loss to Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. Sarkisian has attempted to explain his thought process behind the crucial goal-line play call that many believe cost the Longhorns the game.

 

With first-and-goal at the 1-yard line, Sarkisian called a toss sweep to running back Quintrevion Wisner to the short side of the field. The play was met with confusion and criticism, as it seemed to play right into the hands of Ohio State’s defense. The Buckeyes’ secondary jumped all over the play, and Wisner was stopped for a significant loss, turning a potential tying score into a 3rd-and-8 situation.

 

Sarkisian defended his decision, stating that the play was designed to get Wisner outside and into the end zone. However, he acknowledged that the execution was poor, and the play ultimately didn’t work out as planned.

 

“We didn’t execute it right, and we lost quite a bit of yardage,” Sarkisian said. “That’s one of those plays, if you block it all right, you get into the end zone.”

 

The loss was a devastating blow to the Longhorns, who had been riding a wave of momentum heading into the Cotton Bowl. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who is expected to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, was left to ponder what could have been.

 

Ewers had a solid game, completing 20 of 30 passes for 322 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. However, it was the final play of the game that will be remembered, as Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer strip-sacked Ewers and returned it 83 yards for a touchdown, sealing the win for the Buckeyes.

 

Sarkisian’s decision-making has been under scrutiny all season, and this latest incident has only added fuel to the fire. However, the coach remains committed to his approach, and is already looking ahead to next season.

 

“I’m proud of our team and the way they fought all season,” Sarkisian said. “We came up short in the Cotton Bowl, but we’ll learn from our mistakes and come back stronger next year.”

 

As for Ewers, his time at Texas has come to an end, but his legacy will live on. Despite the disappointing finish to the season, Ewers is proud of what the team accomplished, and is grateful for the experience.

 

“Playing for the University of Texas has been an incredible honor,” Ewers said. “I’m proud of what we accomplished this season, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played with such a talented group of players.”

 

The Longhorns will look to regroup and recharge in the offseason, with a renewed focus on making a deeper run in the playoffs next year. As for Sarkisian, he’ll continue to face scrutiny and criticism, but he remains committed to his vision for the team.

 

“I’m excited about the future of Texas football,” Sarkisian said. “We’ve got a talented young core of players, and I’m confident that we’ll be back competing for championships soon.”

 

The college football world will be watching with interest as the Longhorns look to bounce back from a disappointing end to the season. One thing is certain: Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns will be back, and they’ll be hungry for success.

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