The Texas Longhorns football program, one of the most storied and scrutinized in college football, finds itself at a pivotal crossroads as speculation mounts regarding the future of head coach Steve Sarkisian. Hired in 2021 with the expectation of restoring Texas to national prominence, Sarkisian has struggled to meet the lofty goals set by the program’s leadership and fanbase. Now, as pressure builds, rumors swirl that the Longhorns are already gearing up for a potential coaching change even before Sarkisian’s formal dismissal.
### Sarkisian’s Tenure: Promising Start, Rocky Road
Sarkisian, a former offensive coordinator for powerhouse programs like Alabama, entered Austin with high hopes. Known for his offensive acumen and ability to develop quarterbacks, he was seen as the right person to bring Texas back into the upper echelon of college football. His first season in 2021 was a mixed bag, finishing with a disappointing 5-7 record. However, his recruiting prowess and efforts to establish a winning culture offered glimpses of optimism.
Fast forward to the present, and the Longhorns have struggled to reclaim the consistent success that defined the program in the 2000s under Mack Brown. While there have been notable victories and improved play on the offensive side, inconsistency, especially in high-pressure games, has been Sarkisian’s Achilles heel. The 2023 season was seen as a pivotal year for his tenure, with expectations that Texas would compete for a Big 12 title and make a deep run in the College Football Playoff.
However, the team’s performance has fallen short of these expectations, leading to mounting frustration from the fanbase and whispers of discontent from boosters. As a result, the program is allegedly exploring its options for a new head coach behind the scenes, even as Sarkisian remains at the helm.
### Candidates on the Radar
If Texas does decide to part ways with Sarkisian, the Longhorns will not lack options for his replacement. The program’s resources, tradition, and impending move to the SEC in 2024 make it an attractive destination for top-tier coaching talent. Several high-profile candidates have already been floated in discussions among insiders.
One of the names frequently mentioned is **Dan Lanning**, the head coach at Oregon. Lanning, a former defensive coordinator at Georgia, has quickly earned a reputation as one of the brightest young minds in college football. His defensive prowess and recruiting success have elevated Oregon into a perennial Pac-12 contender, making him an appealing option for Texas as it prepares for the SEC gauntlet.
Another possibility is **Mike Elko**, the head coach at Duke. Elko has performed miracles with the Blue Devils, turning them into a competitive ACC program in a short period. His defensive expertise and ability to elevate a traditionally underperforming team have impressed many in the industry, positioning him as a viable candidate for Texas, particularly given the Longhorns’ struggles on defense.
### Timing and Strategy
While there is no official word on Sarkisian’s departure, it is clear that the Longhorns’ leadership is not content with mediocrity. The program’s desire to secure a high-profile coach before its move to the SEC is driving these behind-the-scenes discussions. Texas will need a leader capable of navigating the fierce competition of the SEC, where programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU reign supreme.
The timing of any potential coaching change will be critical. Texas will not want to make a midseason move unless absolutely necessary, as this could further disrupt the team’s momentum. However, if Sarkisian fails to meet performance benchmarks by season’s end, the Longhorns could move swiftly in their pursuit of a replacement, potentially announcing a new hire as early as December to allow time for recruiting and preparation.
### The Stakes
For Texas, the stakes could not be higher. The Longhorns’ upcoming move to the SEC is set to reshape the landscape of college football. To compete at the highest level, Texas needs a head coach who can attract elite talent, develop players, and outmaneuver some of the game’s best minds. With millions of dollars on the line and a fanbase hungry for success, the program cannot afford another misstep in its coaching search.