Steve Sarkisian Explains Texas’s “Come-To-Jesus” Gathering Before CFP
Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, recently talked about a crucial team meeting that was held prior to the forthcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) game. He referred to the meeting as the team’s “come-to-Jesus” moment, which is a phrase frequently used to denote an open, honest discussion that clarifies matters for all parties. At a critical juncture in the season, this open discussion was intended to address some of the issues and worries the squad had been dealing with. The severity and intensity of Texas’ playoff run, as well as the significance of having such an open dialogue, are clarified by Sarkisian’s account of the meeting.
The expression “come-to-Jesus” usually connotes a period of introspection and responsibility, frequently in reaction to challenges in one’s personal or professional life. The purpose of this meeting for Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns was to address the team’s shortcomings and make sure that everyone was in agreement going forward. It was a crucial measure to make sure the squad stayed focused and united in their pursuit of a national championship, especially with the College Football Playoffs and the stakes so high.
Addressing Challenges and Setting Expectations
For Sarkisian, the meeting was an opportunity to be upfront with his players and coaches about the challenges the team had been facing. It wasn’t just about addressing on-field performance issues but also about ensuring that the players were mentally prepared for the pressures of the College Football Playoff. Sarkisian has always been known for his strategic approach to coaching, but this meeting was more about fostering mental toughness, focus, and accountability within the squad.
In particular, Sarkisian noted that some players had become complacent, and others were not meeting the high standards that the team had set for itself. While the Longhorns had experienced a successful season, the path to the CFP required them to raise their game even further. This meeting allowed the coaching staff and the players to look themselves in the mirror, acknowledging the areas where improvement was needed, both individually and as a unit.
Sarkisian made it clear that, for Texas to compete at the highest level in the CFP, they would need to be more than just talented—they would need to be disciplined, focused, and fully committed to the team’s goals. This conversation wasn’t just about motivating players; it was about setting realistic expectations for what it would take to succeed in the playoff environment. Sarkisian emphasized that everyone, from the coaches to the players, had to be all-in for the Longhorns to make a serious run at the national championship.
Building Team Unity
One of the key themes that emerged from Sarkisian’s explanation of the “come-to-Jesus” meeting was the importance of team unity. The meeting was designed to address any internal issues that may have been affecting the team’s cohesion. As is often the case in high-level sports, successful teams rely on more than just talent—they require strong chemistry, mutual trust, and a shared vision of success. This gathering was intended to ensure that all players understood their roles and how their individual efforts contributed to the overall success of the team.
Sarkisian pointed out that some players had begun to drift away from the team’s collective objectives, and this disconnection needed to be addressed before it became a larger issue. In a high-stakes situation like the College Football Playoff, any friction within the team can be detrimental, especially when the competition is fierce. Therefore, this meeting was a way for Sarkisian to ensure that everyone on the roster was moving forward together, with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the cause.
The coach emphasized that, while the meeting was intense, it was ultimately about bringing the team closer together. It was a chance for players to air grievances, ask questions, and voice any concerns they might have had. This type of open dialogue fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility among the team members, helping them understand that their individual actions impact the group as a whole.
Facing the Pressure of the College Football Playoff
The College Football Playoff represents the pinnacle of college football, and for many players, it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete for a national championship. Sarkisian acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with the territory. The playoff is a high-stakes environment, and mistakes or lapses in focus can be costly. This pressure adds another layer of complexity to the already difficult task of preparing for an elite opponent.
Sarkisian recognized that, in such a pressure-filled situation, mental preparation is just as important—if not more important—than physical preparation. The “come-to-Jesus” meeting was a way to ensure that the players were mentally prepared for the grind ahead. Sarkisian wanted to make sure that the team wasn’t distracted by external factors like the hype around the playoff or the potential media attention. Instead, the focus needed to be solely on executing their game plan and playing as a cohesive unit.
To that end, Sarkisian reminded the team that success in the CFP wouldn’t come from individual heroics but rather from collective effort. He emphasized that, while each player was important, the team as a whole needed to function as a well-oiled machine. Everyone had to buy into the process and commit to playing for each other, rather than focusing on personal achievements or accolades.
The Role of Leadership
Sarkisian also stressed the importance of leadership in the meeting. Leadership is often what separates successful teams from those that falter under pressure. Sarkisian pointed out that strong leadership, both on the field and in the locker room, would be crucial for Texas to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. This responsibility didn’t just fall on the shoulders of the team captains but on all players who were willing to take on a leadership role, regardless of their position.
The “come-to-Jesus” gathering allowed the coaching staff to evaluate who could step up and provide the necessary leadership during the playoff. Sarkisian wanted to ensure that players weren’t just going through the motions but actively taking ownership of their actions and setting a positive example for the rest of the team. Leadership, in this context, means holding teammates accountable, pushing them to be better, and encouraging them when things get tough.
Sarkisian also highlighted that leadership isn’t just about motivating others—it’s about being able to execute under pressure. Leaders on the team would need to step up during crucial moments of the game, particularly in tight situations when the stakes are high. The coaches would be relying on the leadership of their players to help maintain composure and stay focused during the intense environment of the CFP.
Turning a Moment of Reflection Into Action
While the “come-to-Jesus” meeting was an important moment of reflection for the Texas Longhorns, Sarkisian made it clear that the meeting was not just about talking; it was about translating those discussions into action. The players were given the chance to assess where they stood, but now it was time for them to take those insights and apply them on the field. The meeting was a wake-up call, but it was also a call to action.
In the days following the meeting, Sarkisian and the coaching staff worked to ensure that the players were putting the lessons learned into practice. The team focused on improving their mental toughness, increasing their preparation, and making sure everyone was aligned in their goals. The meeting wasn’t just a way to address current issues but also a springboard for the team’s growth as they headed into the most important games of their season.
Looking Forward to the CFP
It is impossible to overestimate the significance of that “come-to-Jesus” moment as the Longhorns advance into the College Football Playoffs. Even though the meeting was tough, Sarkisian thinks it was essential for the team to perform at its best. Texas is prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead. On the largest platform in college football, the Longhorns will want to leave their mark with a fresh sense of unity, accountability, and focus.
