Sarkisian Confident Texas Has Reclaimed Its Playoff Ambitions After Win Over Vanderbilt

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian sees renewed purpose and belief within his team following a crucial Week 10 victory over Vanderbilt. The Longhorns, who entered the matchup ranked No. 20 and fighting to remain relevant in the playoff race, delivered one of their most complete performances of the season in front of a home crowd at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. The 34–20 win over the ninth-ranked Commodores not only extended Texas’ win streak but also restored confidence in a program once thought to be out of contention.

For Sarkisian, the performance signaled a turning point. After a rocky start that saw the Longhorns tumble from preseason No. 1 to unranked in early October, the head coach now believes his team has reconnected with the discipline and focus needed to compete for championships. “I think we’re very hungry,” Sarkisian told On3 Sports. “This team has grown very close together… It was probably the best thing for us, this group to really grow together, lock arms, battle, compete, and fight for one another with a common goal.”

The win also marked a significant homecoming. Week 10 was Texas’ first home game since September 20, breaking a 42-day stretch spent traveling for three road games and a neutral-site matchup against Oklahoma. The time away, Sarkisian said, helped the team mature and strengthen its identity.

Now sitting at 7–2 overall, Texas has forced its way back into the playoff conversation, with the potential to climb several spots in the next CFP rankings. For a team once dismissed after back-to-back early losses, the turnaround underscores just how resilient the Longhorns have become under Sarkisian’s leadership.

1. Road Lessons Shape a Stronger Team

Texas’ transformation began during that challenging month-long road stretch. The Longhorns faced adversity at nearly every turn — tough road environments, key injuries, and mounting external criticism — but the shared struggle helped solidify the team’s chemistry. Sarkisian admitted he initially disliked the extended time away from Austin but later acknowledged it became a defining stretch for his squad. Players bonded through those weeks, responding to close games and hostile crowds with improved poise and unity. That maturity has translated into consistent performances on both sides of the ball, particularly in clutch moments. Quarterback Arch Manning’s return from injury has stabilized the offense, while the defense, led by linebacker Anthony Hill Jr., has regained its edge, forcing turnovers and limiting explosive plays. Since the disappointing Week 6 upset loss to Florida, the Longhorns have reeled off four straight wins, including two over top-10 opponents. Though not all of them have been dominant showings, Texas has rediscovered its ability to win tough, physical games — a trait that had eluded it in early-season losses. As a result, Sarkisian’s group now carries renewed belief heading into the final stretch of the season. “They know the work’s not done,” Sarkisian said. “We’ve got to keep building on what’s ahead of us.”

2. Longhorns Back in SEC and Playoff Race

The resurgence has not only restored confidence within the program but also reshaped the SEC title race. At 4–1 in conference play, Texas sits tied for third place, trailing only Ole Miss and Georgia depending on Week 10 results. Crucially, the Longhorns now own tiebreakers over both Vanderbilt and Oklahoma — a potential difference-maker as the postseason picture tightens. The SEC Championship Game race remains wide open, but Texas has put itself back in the conversation. Their strong November schedule — matchups against Georgia, Arkansas, and Tennessee following a Week 11 bye — gives them opportunities to further bolster their résumé. Winning out could place them squarely in contention for a playoff berth. Even amid injuries, the team’s depth has begun to show. Backup defenders and reserves on offense have stepped up in recent weeks, allowing Texas to maintain balance on both sides of the ball. Players such as running back Jaydon Blue and safety Larry Turner-Gooden have made timely contributions, helping the Longhorns stay competitive against ranked opponents. The turnaround underscores Sarkisian’s broader message of resilience and long-term vision. Once written off after a disappointing start, the Longhorns have regained control of their destiny, reminding the college football world that their preseason expectations were not misplaced.

3. Texas Poised for Defining Stretch

As Texas enters its bye week, Sarkisian and his staff face the challenge of sustaining momentum through the season’s final month. With the playoff picture tightening, every game will carry heightened stakes, and the Longhorns can ill afford a setback. Still, after weeks of rebuilding confidence and cohesion, the team appears primed for a strong finish. The final three games will test Texas’ playoff legitimacy. A win over Georgia would likely vault the Longhorns back into the top ten, while victories over Arkansas and Tennessee would solidify their conference standing. More importantly, the team’s recent improvement has revived a belief — both internally and among fans — that Texas football is back to competing at a national level. For Sarkisian, this moment represents the culmination of steady progress since taking over in Austin. His emphasis on culture, discipline, and player development is finally translating into consistent on-field success. The next month will determine whether that progress leads to a spot in the College Football Playoff or simply sets the stage for 2026. Regardless of how the season concludes, Texas’ Week 10 performance marked a statement: the Longhorns are not just back in the hunt — they’re determined to finish what they started.