The Texas Longhorns are riding high this season, showcasing the benefits of being a premier program in college football. With a top-notch offense led by star quarterback Quinn Ewers and a formidable defense, the Longhorns are competing fiercely for a spot in the College Football Playoffs and eyeing a potential SEC championship. However, this success comes with its own set of pressures, as the team faces scrutiny week after week.
Every weekend, fans are treated to thrilling performances, but it’s essential to remember the journey that brought Texas to this point. Head coach Steve Sarkisian took the helm in January 2021, and since then, the program has made remarkable strides. The Longhorns reached the College Football Playoffs for the first time in 2023, marking a significant turnaround from the struggles of the previous decade.
Reflecting on the past, Sarkisian delivered a powerful message to both the fanbase and his players, urging them to appreciate the current success. “We’re 9-1 for the second year in a row,” he emphasized. “Don’t forget what the last decade looked like. Let’s just remember how good we’ve got it right now and appreciate this team and how good they’re playing.” This reminder is crucial as fans can sometimes lose sight of the progress made amid the excitement of a winning season.
Before Sarkisian’s arrival, the Longhorns were often characterized by inconsistency. The team seemed to flip a coin each season, resulting in a mix of winning and losing records. From 2014 to 2020, the Longhorns struggled to find their footing, with records like 5-7 and 6-7, which left fans yearning for a return to glory.
A decade of ups and downs
The last decade has been a rollercoaster for Texas football. Here’s a quick look at their year-by-year records since 2014:
- 2014: 6-7 (loss in bowl game)
- 2015: 5-7
- 2016: 5-7
- 2017: 7-6 (win in bowl game)
- 2018: 10-4 (win in bowl game)
- 2019: 8-5 (win in bowl game)
- 2020: 7-3 (win in bowl game)
- 2021: 5-7
- 2022: 8-5 (loss in bowl game)
- 2023: 12-2 (won BIG 12 title, loss in CFP semifinal)
This history underscores the importance of the current success. The Longhorns have transformed from a team searching for its identity to a powerhouse with championship aspirations.
Sarkisian’s message to Ewers
In this pivotal moment, Sarkisian is keenly aware of the pressures on his star quarterback, Quinn Ewers. As Ewers approaches what could be his final games in the NCAA, Sarkisian has taken the opportunity to impart valuable lessons. “My hope is that he’s enjoying this experience because this stuff is once in a lifetime,” he shared. “I’m hopeful that he’s enjoying it, that he’s learning some real-life lessons about how to deal with adversity.”
This sentiment is not just about football; it’s about life. The experiences that Ewers and his teammates are going through now will shape them long after they leave the field. The camaraderie built during this time, the challenges faced, and the victories celebrated are all part of the journey that defines a player’s career.
The Longhorns’ rise to prominence is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the program. Fans have witnessed a transformation that has reignited their passion for Texas football. As the team continues to push toward their goals, the focus remains on enjoying the journey and cherishing the moments that come with it.
The excitement surrounding the Longhorns is palpable, and it’s clear that the program is on an upward trajectory. With each game, they are not just competing for titles; they are building a legacy. The pressure is high, but so are the rewards. As the Longhorns look ahead, they are determined to make the most of every opportunity, and with leaders like Sarkisian and Ewers at the helm, the future looks bright for Texas football.
In the world of college football, it’s easy to get swept up in the moment and forget the hard work that goes into achieving success. The Longhorns, however, are a reminder that every victory is built on the foundation of perseverance, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. As they continue their quest for greatness, one thing is certain: the Longhorns are back, and they’re here to stay.
