Steve Sarkisian shares status of Texas' injury list ahead of Kansas State game
Early in his tenure, Steve Sarkisian has played in a few high-stakes games at Texas. Saturday against Kansas State feels a little different though, with a big opportunity ahead of both teams when it comes to the Big 12 Championship game. Whoever wins will have a great path to Arlington as just three games remain.
Heading into the matchup, Sarkisian was asked if there was any kind of change to the injury report. There was no update from the Texas head coach, whether it was positive or negative. Everything has been clean throughout the week of practice and the Longhorns are ready to play.
“I think we’re good with where we’re at,” Sarkisian said. “I really think we’re okay.”
There was a specific question about Ethan Burke, who did not play in last week’s game against BYU. Sarkisian did not have a specific injury update available but is happy with the progress Burke is making in practice.
“I’m very encouraged with where Ethan is at in practice,” Sarkisian said.
Burke has been a starter for Texas this season, playing for the hometown Longhorns. He has recorded three sacks and 4.5 tackles for a loss this season coming off the edge.
Of course, the biggest injury surrounding Texas at the moment is quarterback Quinn Ewers. He has continued to be dubbed “week-to-week” by Sarkisian. However, Maalik Murphy has been named the starter for the Kansas State game after a solid performance last week.
Texas to be without Jalen Catalon against Kansas State
Sarkisian did a crucial update regarding one of the most impactful players in the Longhorns secondary on Thursday.
After missing the last two games with an injury, Sarkisian shared that defensive back Jalen Catalon did return to practice for the Longhorns on Thursday and unfortunately will not be available to play this Saturday as Texas hosts No. 23 Kansas State.
“We need him down the stretch,” Sarkisian said.
Catalon joined the Longhorns this offseason through the transfer portal after spending the first four seasons of his collegiate career at Arkansas. He’s recorded 15 tackles and a forced fumble in his five game appearances for Texas this season.
Catalon suffered an injury to his leg in the second half of the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma that will now force him to miss his third straight game of the season. But unfortunately, he is no stranger to injuries limiting his playing time.