Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has demonstrated strategic acumen throughout his career as an offensive mastermind in college football, renowned for his ability to generate yards and points. However, even the most skilled coaches have moments they regret, which have shaped their coaching philosophy and approach.
During a recent episode of Big Noon Conversation, hosted by Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt, Sarkisian reflected on one of his pivotal coaching decisions. Klatt asked Sarkisian about his most regrettable play call, to which Sarkisian recalled a critical moment in the 2006 Rose Bowl between USC and Texas.
“I know exactly what it was: Fourth-and-2, USC playing Texas in the national championship game,” Sarkisian recounted.
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In that game, Sarkisian served as USC’s quarterbacks coach. With USC holding a narrow 38-33 lead and just over two minutes remaining, they faced a crucial fourth-and-2 situation at Texas’ 44-yard line. Rather than relying on Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush, Sarkisian opted to give the ball to running back LenDale White. Unfortunately, White was stopped short of the first-down marker by Texas’ defense, a decision Sarkisian later reflected on as a pivotal moment.
As Fox Sports elaborates, “That same call would ultimately lead to the greatest play in Texas football history.”
Today in 2006, the Texas Longhorns claims their fourth national championship and caps off a perfect 13-0 season with a 41-38 victory over the top-ranked USC Trojans in the Rose Bowl. pic.twitter.com/A2OGvk8X8M
— Texas Sports History (@TXSportsHistory) January 4, 2023
This moment serves as a reminder of the fine margins and tough decisions that shape coaching legacies in college football.
