Steve Sarkisian, the head football coach of Texas, has issued a warning about the things that need to be rectified if the Longhorns are to win the CFP title.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian is cautiously optimistic as the Texas Longhorns advance to the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the 2024 season, but he is also well aware of the obstacles his team must overcome in order to win a national championship. Sarkisian delivered a stark warning after a season filled with great performances and high expectations: if Texas is to win its first CFP championship, there are serious issues that must be resolved.

Even though Sarkisian has guided the Longhorns to significant success, the coach is realistic enough to admit that winning the national championship demands a high level of performance in every area of the game. His frank evaluation offers a guide for the squad and supporters to comprehend the obstacles that remain in the way of Texas winning a historic championship.

A Good Season, However, Not Without Problems

For Texas, the 2024 season has been a great one. The Longhorns are now among the top divisions of college football because to outstanding performances from players like linebacker Jaylan Ford and quarterback Quinn Ewers. Although they have a strong enough resume to qualify for the CFP, Sarkisian pointed out that the path to the national title is not without its challenges.

Despite having a strong defense and a powerful attack, the Longhorns have occasionally displayed weakness. Sarkisian’s caution serves as a reminder that teams vying for the national championship must possess these qualities: discipline, versatility, and the capacity to perform effectively under duress.

Offensive Inconsistencies: A Key Area of Focus

One of the main points Sarkisian has highlighted is the inconsistency on offense. While Texas has demonstrated explosive potential, particularly through Ewers’ arm and the talent of running back Jonathon Brooks, the offense has also had periods of stagnation throughout the season. Against some of the more formidable defenses they faced in the regular season, the Longhorns struggled to maintain balance and execution.

Sarkisian has emphasized the need for a more consistent passing game, particularly in critical moments when the game is on the line. Ewers, though talented, has faced challenges in terms of accuracy and decision-making under pressure, something that could be a liability in the high-stakes environment of the CFP.

Moreover, Texas’ offensive line, while solid, has not been flawless in protecting Ewers and opening up running lanes. Against teams like Alabama and Kansas State, the offensive line showed lapses in protection, especially in third-and-long situations. These breakdowns have forced the Longhorns into unfavorable field positions, stalling drives and potentially costing them key moments in close games.

To win the CFP title, Sarkisian believes Texas needs to find a way to execute offensively without relying too heavily on individual talent. The offensive line must play with more consistency, and Ewers must prove capable of making quicker, more accurate decisions. Sarkisian’s strategy to address these issues will involve retooling the playbook and refining the timing between his quarterback and receivers, which will be critical for big plays in the postseason.

Defensive Execution: A Need for Discipline

Another crucial area Sarkisian has pointed out is the need for better discipline on defense. Texas boasts a physical defense, led by Ford and defensive backs like Ryan Watts, but the team has struggled with lapses in coverage and penalties. In high-pressure games like the ones they will face in the CFP, these mental errors can be disastrous.

Sarkisian has stressed that defensive mistakes—whether it’s missed tackles, blown coverages, or unnecessary penalties—cannot be tolerated in the CFP. The level of competition in the playoff will be the highest it has been all season, and teams like Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State will capitalize on any weaknesses. The defensive coaching staff will need to instill a greater sense of discipline, emphasizing preparation, focus, and execution at the highest level.

Texas has had some of its best defensive performances this season, but in games where the competition was stiff, they showed a tendency to give up big plays or allow opponents to convert on third downs when they should have gotten off the field. Against teams with potent offenses, such as the ones they’ll face in the CFP, the Longhorns can’t afford to make these same mistakes.

Another issue has been Texas’ ability to stop the run at times. While their pass defense is one of the best in the nation, the Longhorns have occasionally struggled with tackling in the open field and preventing big runs. If they are to win the CFP, controlling the line of scrimmage and limiting the opposing team’s ability to run the ball will be vital. Sarkisian knows that championship-caliber defenses don’t just rely on pass defense—they excel in every facet of the game, including stopping the run and controlling the trenches.

Special Teams: A Hidden Threat

A less talked-about, but equally important, area of concern for Sarkisian is the special teams unit. While Texas has some great specialists, such as punter Ryan Sanborn and kicker Bert Auburn, special teams errors can be the difference in tight postseason games. Sarkisian has pointed out that the Longhorns cannot afford lapses in execution on kickoffs, punts, or field goals, as even a single mistake can change the course of a high-stakes playoff game.

In the 2024 season, Texas has had some inconsistency in their return game, which could become a critical factor in the CFP. Giving up long returns or not capitalizing on special teams opportunities can swing momentum, and Sarkisian is well aware of the need for flawless execution in this area.

Mental Toughness: Preparing for the Big Stage

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Sarkisian has emphasized the importance of mental toughness. Texas has certainly shown flashes of brilliance, but to win a national championship, they will need to bring their best in the face of adversity. The mental aspect of the game—being able to stay calm under pressure, rebound from mistakes, and maintain composure in tight moments—could be what separates them from the other elite teams in the playoff.

Sarkisian’s experience in big games, both as a player and a coach, has shown him that talent alone isn’t enough to win a national title. His warning about the need for mental fortitude resonates because the Longhorns will face challenges that test their resilience. If Texas can stay focused, avoid distractions, and rise to the occasion, they will be in a strong position to compete for the championship.

Sarkisian’s Leadership: Setting the Tone

Steve Sarkisian has become a strong leader for the Texas program, and his ability to lead the team through adversity will be crucial. He’s instilled a culture of excellence and accountability, but now, he will need to ensure that every player on the roster buys into the idea that the road to a CFP title is paved with consistency, discipline, and a relentless drive to improve.

With the right adjustments, Texas has the talent to compete for a national championship, but Sarkisian’s warning underscores the hard truth: there is work to be done. To win the title, Texas needs to address its offensive inconsistencies, tighten up its defense, clean up special teams, and ensure that the team is mentally prepared for the pressure of the College Football Playoff. If they can fix these issues, they will be one of the most dangerous teams in the field.