Texas Coach Steve Sarkisian’s Unconventional Approach to the College Football Playoffs
As the college football world gears up for the highly anticipated College Football Playoffs, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian is taking an unconventional approach to prepare his team for the challenges ahead. With three potential games left in the season, Sarkisian has made the bold decision to give his players a Christmas break, releasing them to spend time with their families until December 26.
This move may raise eyebrows, especially considering the high stakes of the College Football Playoffs. However, Sarkisian’s reasoning is rooted in his trust in his players and his commitment to their well-being. “If I can’t trust them now, then when can I trust them?” Sarkisian asked rhetorically. “There are eight teams left, and we’re one of the eight. If I can’t trust our guys for a couple days to go home and drink eggnog with their mom, then when am I going to trust them?”
Sarkisian’s approach is not without precedent. Earlier in the season, he gave his players multiple days off during a bye week, and the team responded with a resounding 38-24 victory over Clemson in the first round of the playoffs. “We felt like the formula worked pretty good,” Sarkisian said. “We felt fast. We felt physical. I thought the guys had a good grasp of the game plan.”
This break will undoubtedly provide the players with a much-needed respite from the physical and mental demands of the season. The Texas Longhorns have been on a grueling schedule since training camp began in late July, and the playoffs have only added to the intensity. By giving his players a chance to recharge and spend time with their loved ones, Sarkisian is prioritizing their well-being and setting them up for success in the games to come.
When the team returns from their Christmas break, they will dive headfirst into preparations for their Peach Bowl matchup against Arizona State on New Year’s Day. The winner of that game will advance to the Cotton Bowl to face the winner of the Ohio State-Oregon matchup in the College Football Playoffs semifinals.
As Sarkisian noted, this is the second consecutive year that Texas has made it to the College Football Playoffs, a testament to the program’s growth and resilience. With his unconventional approach, Sarkisian is proving that he is willing to think outside the box to give his team the best chance at success. As the Longhorns embark on this critical stretch of the season, they will be fueled by a renewed sense of focus, energy, and holiday cheer.
