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IT Q&A: Steve Sarkisian's future at Texas, transfer priorities, pass defense issues, and more

Eric Nahlinby: Eric Nahlin4 hours ago

Texas fans have questions about everything from Sark’s future rumors to the wide receiver plan in the transfer portal. We break it all down and dive into what’s really going wrong with PK’s struggling pass defense in this week’s IT Q&A.

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The video presents a nuanced view of the Texas football program’s current situation, emphasizing that while the season has been disappointing, the problems are not insurmountable. Steve Sarkisian’s future is a focal point, with Eric Nahlin suggesting he likely returns but must address offseason shortcomings decisively. The offseason is framed as a pivotal moment for Texas, where strategic recruiting—especially in the offensive line and running back positions—will determine the trajectory of the program.

The conversation also highlights the complexity of coaching roles, particularly around play-calling. Sarkisian’s dual role as head coach and play-caller is under scrutiny, with multiple potential solutions discussed that balance continuity and fresh perspectives. This reflects broader trends in college football where specialization and delegation are becoming more common to optimize game-day performance.

Defensively, the secondary’s decline is linked to coaching structure and talent turnover. The reliance on assistants to call coverage, a practice carried over from previous coaching staffs, may not be effective at Texas given the current talent and performance issues. The emphasis on using the transfer portal to bring in experienced defensive backs is notable, as it reflects the increasing importance of transfers in modern college football roster building.

Despite these challenges, there are clear signs of progress—most notably with Arch Manning’s development, which is seen as a cornerstone for future offensive success. The video suggests that improvement in the offensive line would amplify Manning’s effectiveness, which in turn would elevate the entire offense and overall team performance.

Finally, the discussion touches on the psychological dimension of the team’s current struggles. The ability of the players to maintain effort and focus amid negative media and uncertainty will be critical in finishing the season strong and setting a positive tone for the offseason.

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