As college football continues to grow in popularity, rivalries and matchups between powerhouse teams have become some of the most eagerly anticipated events in sports. One of the most exciting storylines in recent years has been the emergence of Steve Sarkisian as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns. With his strategic acumen, powerful recruiting, and ability to inspire his players, Sarkisian has brought new hope to the Texas program. This hope, however, has also led to much anticipation for one matchup that many fans are hoping will eventually come to fruition—the Texas Longhorns vs. Ohio State Buckeyes.
While this game hasn’t yet happened, the discussion surrounding the potential showdown between these two storied programs is growing more intense, particularly after recent comments from Sarkisian himself. Known for his candid nature and sharp football mind, Sarkisian recently made his feelings about the prospect of facing Ohio State clear—expressing both his admiration for the Buckeyes and his desire to test his Longhorns against one of the nation’s most successful programs.
Sarkisian’s Approach to Texas Football
When Steve Sarkisian took over the reins at Texas in 2021, he inherited a program that had seen mixed results in the years prior. The Longhorns had long been considered a sleeping giant in college football, with incredible resources, a rich history, and an endless pool of talent at their disposal. However, consistent success had eluded the program for years, and expectations were high for Sarkisian to be the coach who could return Texas to national prominence.
Sarkisian, a former offensive coordinator at both Alabama and USC, had already proven himself as one of the top minds in college football before arriving in Austin. His offensive schemes, particularly his ability to develop quarterbacks, became the bedrock of his reputation, and there was an immediate sense of optimism among Texas fans when he took over the program.
His tenure at Texas, however, began with some growing pains. In his first year, the Longhorns experienced a turbulent season, highlighted by key losses and inconsistencies on both sides of the ball. Despite these setbacks, Sarkisian’s ability to recruit top-tier talent remained evident, and many believed that he was laying the groundwork for future success.
The 2022 season saw a more competitive Texas team, with wins over top programs and significant development in key areas. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, a highly touted recruit, began to take strides under Sarkisian’s tutelage, while the Longhorns’ defense showed signs of improvement as well.
Now entering his third season at the helm, Sarkisian has made it clear that he has grand ambitions for the Longhorns. He has spoken frequently about his desire to make Texas a consistent national championship contender, and a key part of that vision involves taking on the best teams in the country. That’s where Ohio State comes in.
Steve Sarkisian’s Views on Ohio State
In a recent interview, Steve Sarkisian was asked about the possibility of facing Ohio State in a high-profile matchup. The Buckeyes, one of the most successful programs in recent college football history, are perennial playoff contenders and have produced some of the game’s top talent year after year. For Sarkisian, facing a team like Ohio State isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity.
Sarkisian spoke openly about his respect for Ohio State’s football program. He acknowledged the Buckeyes’ rich tradition, their dominance in the Big Ten, and their sustained success under head coach Ryan Day. Ohio State has been a staple in the College Football Playoff conversation for years, and the chance to go toe-to-toe with a team of that caliber would be a major moment in Sarkisian’s tenure at Texas.
“I respect what Ohio State has built,” Sarkisian said. “They’ve been one of the top programs in the country for a long time, and they continue to recruit at an elite level. Their coaching staff, their facilities, and their culture are all top-notch. It would be an incredible opportunity to play against them.”
While Sarkisian’s respect for Ohio State is clear, his competitive fire also came through in his comments. He emphasized that facing the best teams is not just about respecting their success, but about proving that Texas can hang with the elite programs in college football.
“The bottom line is that we want to compete with the best,” Sarkisian added. “If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. Ohio State is one of those programs that sets the standard. We’re working to get there, and we’d love to have the chance to show that Texas can be on that same level.”
This statement reflects the confidence that Sarkisian is instilling in his team. He is focused on raising the bar for Texas football, and playing against a program like Ohio State would be a clear indicator of how far the Longhorns have come under his leadership.
Texas and Ohio State: A Future Clash?
The question of whether Texas and Ohio State will meet on the field anytime soon remains to be seen. As of now, both teams are in different conferences—Texas is preparing to transition to the SEC, while Ohio State remains a cornerstone of the Big Ten. With the landscape of college football continuing to evolve, particularly with the expansion of the College Football Playoff and the shifting of conference affiliations, a matchup between these two teams seems increasingly likely, especially if both continue to perform at an elite level.
For the Longhorns, a game against Ohio State would not only provide a significant challenge but also serve as a major test of where they stand in the hierarchy of college football. For Sarkisian, it would be an opportunity to prove that his program is ready for the next step and that Texas can compete with the top programs in the nation.
The Bigger Picture for Sarkisian and Texas
Sarkisian’s focus on playing against Ohio State goes beyond just one game or one opponent. It’s a reflection of his broader vision for Texas football. He wants the Longhorns to be in the conversation with the likes of Ohio State, Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson—the programs that have dominated the national landscape in recent years.
To reach that level, Sarkisian understands that Texas must continue to build its recruiting class, develop its players, and execute its game plans at the highest level. This requires not only a competitive spirit but a willingness to embrace the challenge of facing off against the best programs in the country.
By making his feelings clear about Ohio State, Sarkisian is sending a message to his players, fans, and recruits alike: Texas is on a mission to return to national prominence, and they’re not afraid to take on the best to prove it.
Conclusion
While a Texas vs. Ohio State game may still be in the future, Steve Sarkisian’s comments highlight the ambitious goals he has set for the Longhorns. His respect for Ohio State’s success is evident, but he also sees the matchup as an opportunity for Texas to prove its place among the nation’s elite programs. As Sarkisian continues to build the Longhorns into a national contender, a game against Ohio State would be a significant step forward, showcasing both the growth of the program and the competitive spirit that drives Sarkisian and his team. For Texas fans, the hope is that this exciting showdown becomes a reality in the near future, giving the Longhorns a chance to measure themselves against one of the best programs in the country.
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