Steve Sarkisian: 'High level' of respect for Alabama, 'but in the end, we're the University of Texas'

Steve Sarkisian has nothing but respect for Nick Saban and his old stomping grounds in Tuscaloosa. Still, it stings for the leader of the Texas Longhorns that his team was so close to defeating Alabama last season.

Ahead of another matchup in 2023, Sarkisian joined The Pivot to elaborated on why he has some much adulation for Saban’s Crimson Tide, but also how he believes the Longhorns had some chances to find victory last season.

“There’s definitely a high-level of respect, because I know the work that he puts in. I know the work that he has his staff put in. I know the way they practice, I know the way they prepare, but that’s what motivates you too,” explained Sarkisian. “You know, myself. I’ve been on that staff. I know what it looks like, and so you’re always trying to find that edge as a coach.

“Shoot, I felt like last year we had our chances. That we created some opportunities for ourselves. That’s what it‘s going to take. The key to a drill is when you get your opportunities, you’ve got to make them come to life.”

Moreover, Sarkisian recognizes that every college football program should strive to be like Saban’s Crimson Tide. While he holds Alabama in high regard, he doesn’t want people to forget that Texas is a pretty huge deal themselves, and they have a myriad of talent throughout their program.

“There’s definitely a great deal of respect for their program, the history and tradition of Alabama, Coach Saban. But in the end, we’re the University of Texas too, and we’ve got good players too, and we’ve got pretty good coaches too,” added Sarkisian. “In the end, you’ve got to go play the game, and who can make those plays. Who can call the right calls at the right time. Have your players prepared in the most critical moments. 

“That’s ultimately what football comes down to. There’s that 8-10 plays that ultimate define a game, can you make those plays in those moments.”

On Saturday Sept. 9, Sarkisian will have another shot to take down Saban, but this time it’ll come at Bryant-Denny Stadium, which will pose a huge challenge. Nevertheless, the Longhorns will be ready and hoping to prove they’re on the Crimson Tide’s level.

Steve Sarkisian is building Texas back to the program they want to be, but they still have a ways to go. A victory over Nick Saban and Alabama will go a long way to proving Texas is truly back, but it won’t be an easy feat.