Sarkisian Voted Finalist for Bear Bryant Coach of the Year: A Season of Triumph and Transformation

Steve Sarkisian’s journey to becoming a finalist for the prestigious Bear Bryant Coach of the Year award has been nothing short of remarkable. As the head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns, Sarkisian has not only led his team to an impressive season but has also helped reshape the culture and expectations around the program. This recognition as one of the top coaches in college football is the culmination of a well-planned and executed strategy that has been built over years of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth.

A Long Road to Recognition

Before becoming the face of the Texas Longhorns, Sarkisian’s career path was anything but conventional. His coaching journey started in the early 2000s when he began his career as an assistant at various universities. Sarkisian’s early coaching stints were with the likes of USC, Washington, and Alabama, where he honed his craft under some of the most respected minds in the game.

However, it was his time at Washington, where he turned a downtrodden program into a consistent Pac-12 contender, that began to raise his profile in the football world. After a stint as the offensive coordinator at Alabama under Nick Saban, Sarkisian was hired as the head coach of Texas in 2021, a program in dire need of direction.

The expectations placed upon him were high, given Texas’ historical status and the enormous potential of its recruiting base. But Sarkisian knew that rebuilding Texas was about more than simply coaching talent—it was about instilling a winning mindset, re-establishing a culture of discipline, and executing a vision that would resonate with both players and fans alike.

Sarkisian’s 2024 Campaign: Excellence in Execution

Sarkisian’s work in 2024 represents the apex of his leadership and the success of his vision for the Texas football program. The Longhorns, who finished the regular season with a 12-1 record, have been a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball. But it’s not just the wins that stand out; it’s the manner in which Sarkisian’s team has been able to execute.

Offensive Efficiency

Texas has one of the most potent offenses in the nation under Sarkisian’s stewardship. Known for his offensive creativity and ability to develop quarterbacks, Sarkisian has turned Texas into a juggernaut in the Big 12. His offensive play calling has been diverse and unpredictable, blending spread concepts with power running games, creating mismatches for opposing defenses.

The offense has been powered by an explosive combination of veteran players and rising stars, most notably Quinn Ewers, who has emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation under Sarkisian’s tutelage. Ewers, a highly touted recruit, had a breakthrough season in 2024, showcasing his strong arm and ability to make throws all over the field. His development under Sarkisian’s guidance was a major factor in Texas’ success, with the Longhorns consistently scoring at a high clip.

Additionally, Sarkisian’s use of running back Bijan Robinson, who had been with the team during the 2023 season, was a masterstroke in the offensive scheme. Robinson’s ability to move the ball both on the ground and as a receiving threat in the passing game made him a dual threat, drawing attention from opposing defenses and opening up the field for other weapons.

Sarkisian’s commitment to offensive balance has made Texas one of the hardest teams to defend against in the country. Whether it’s through dynamic aerial strikes or grinding out tough yards on the ground, his team has found ways to keep defenses guessing, putting up impressive numbers across the board.

Defensive Resilience

While much of the attention is often placed on Texas’ high-powered offense, it is their defense that has become a true strength of the team under Sarkisian. Many people had questions about Texas’ defense when he first arrived, as it had been inconsistent in the years prior. But Sarkisian has worked to establish a defense that plays with physicality, intelligence, and discipline.

A key component to Texas’ defensive success has been the development of their defensive line, which has been dominant throughout the season. The Longhorns have one of the best pass rushes in the nation, with a line that can disrupt quarterbacks and stop the run. Led by standout players like junior linebacker Jalen Ford and defensive end Alfred Collins, Texas has been able to pressure opposing quarterbacks and force critical turnovers at pivotal moments.

Additionally, the defensive backfield has been one of the strongest units in college football, led by star cornerback Ryan Watts. The secondary has allowed Texas to play aggressive, man-to-man coverage while also being versatile enough to adapt to different offensive schemes. The team’s defensive coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, has been able to mix in multiple fronts and schemes, keeping offenses on their heels and forcing mistakes.

Special Teams and Discipline

Another hallmark of Sarkisian’s Texas teams has been their attention to detail in all three phases of the game. His special teams unit has been exemplary, often providing crucial field position advantages. Whether it’s a key punt return or a long field goal, the special teams have been a catalyst for momentum shifts.

Sarkisian has also instilled a culture of discipline on the team, which has translated into fewer penalties and fewer mental lapses compared to previous Texas teams. This discipline on the field has allowed the Longhorns to play their brand of football—aggressive, efficient, and mistake-free.

Turning Point: The Alabama Win

For many, the defining moment of Sarkisian’s season came in a dramatic victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide in one of the most anticipated non-conference matchups in college football history. Texas traveled to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for a Week 2 showdown with the defending national champions, and the game proved to be a monumental test for Sarkisian’s team.

In front of a hostile crowd, Texas delivered a performance that was a statement on both sides of the ball. Ewers threw for over 300 yards, showcasing his development under Sarkisian’s system, and the Longhorns defense managed to stifle Alabama’s high-powered offense, especially in the second half. The 31-24 victory sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, signaling that Texas was not just back but capable of competing with the best.

This win over Alabama helped propel Texas into the College Football Playoff conversation, as they cruised through the Big 12 and finished the regular season with just one loss. It also solidified Sarkisian’s reputation as one of the top coaches in the country, showing that his leadership and game plan could be successful against any opponent, no matter the stakes.

The Culture of Accountability and Player Development

At the heart of Sarkisian’s success has been his ability to develop players and cultivate a culture of accountability. In interviews, Sarkisian has frequently emphasized that his approach is not just about Xs and Os—it’s about building relationships with his players, creating a family environment where everyone is held to the same high standards.

His coaching staff, many of whom have been with him for several years, share this philosophy, and it has permeated throughout the entire program. Players are expected to be leaders not only on the field but in their everyday lives. Sarkisian’s mentorship has helped several players flourish, whether it’s underclassmen stepping into major roles or seniors finishing their careers with an unforgettable season.

Furthermore, Sarkisian has shown a keen ability to adapt and make adjustments in the heat of competition. In many of the Longhorns’ biggest games, he has demonstrated an uncanny knack for making the right call at the right time. Whether it’s a bold fourth-down conversion attempt or a last-minute defensive shift, Sarkisian’s strategic moves have proven to be a game-changer.

Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright

While the recognition of being a finalist for the Bear Bryant Coach of the Year is a well-deserved accolade, Sarkisian knows that this is just the beginning for him and the Texas football program. With the Longhorns on the verge of entering the SEC, the competition is only going to get tougher, but Sarkisian’s leadership and vision have the team well-positioned to compete at the highest levels for years to come.

His success in 2024 has rejuvenated the Texas football program and ignited excitement among Longhorns fans who have been waiting for a return to national prominence. The Longhorns are now contenders, and Sarkisian has shown that he is the coach who can take them there.

As a finalist for the Bear Bryant Coach of the Year award, Sarkisian has received the recognition he deserves for his outstanding work in transforming Texas into a national powerhouse. With a promising future ahead, Sarkisian is poised to continue his legacy as one of the brightest minds in college football.