Key Takeaways from Sarkisian’s 9/19 Press Conference

Photo: Ryan Swantkowski

Right out of the gate Texas HC Steve Sarkisian talked about the energy and performance in the first half of Saturday’s game against UTSA, saying it was “not up to standard”. He added that he was proud of the way the team rebounded in the second half and made the adjustments needed to win the game, but that the team has their “work cut out” for them come Saturday in Lubbock. The biggest takeaway from Saturday’s win may just be that, according to Sarkisian, “nobody blinked. Nobody said here we go again…” when the Longhorns were down 17-7 in the first half. As Longhorn fans are aware, games like this in the past have ended quite differently. There seemed to be a different mentality this time around. 

Throughout the presser, Sarkisian was asked about the Texas Tech environment, if he’s ever been to Lubbock and if he has received any advice from former Texas Tech staff like UT basketball Head Coach Chris Beard. He said he’s never been to Lubbock and that Coach Beard has reached out somewhat but is aware of the college football environment there… and he’s looking forward to it. “There’s a lot of places you go and the opposing fans aren’t very happy we show up… we are the University of Texas. Nobody likes us. That’s okay. We embrace the hate and we will be ready to rock and roll Saturday at 2:30”. Sarkisian continued to mention how much he loves the college football atmosphere and is excited to have their first away game of the 2022 season. 

Last but definitely not least, an injury/player update. Sarkisian was asked about the health of all the Quarterbacks and said that they “all practiced today which is a positive… that to me is a really good sign”. This includes Quinn Ewers, Maalik Murphy and obviously last week’s starter, Hudson Card. He was also asked about LB DeMarvion Overshown, who was ejected in the 2nd half of the UTSA game for a targeting call after hitting QB Frank Harris in the helmet area, and said they have sent in their appeal to have his potential suspension for the first half of the Texas Tech game lifted. 

“This is when you really have to lean on one another” says Sarkisian, and quoting his phrase from earlier in the week, “preseason is over”. Conference play is now just around the corner for the Longhorns as they go into Lubbock to take on the Red Raiders on Saturday at 2:30 CT.