AUSTIN, Texas – The University of Texas at Austin has named Steve Sarkisian, currently offensive coordinator for the Alabama Crimson Tide, head coach of the Longhorn football team. He replaces Tom Herman, who was released earlier today.
Sarkisian has a strong record as both an attacking coordinator and head coach in Division I’s college football and the NFL. He also offers extensive coaching experience to the Longhorn football program in conference and national championship games and the development of top talent, including three finalists of the Heisman Trophy.
“On January 4, 2006, I was the USC quarterback coach when we played Texas in the famous national championship game. There has always been something special about Longhorn football, its history and traditions – not just on that day – and I could never suggested to me that I join the Longhorns 15 years later as their head coach, ‘said Sarkisian. “This is a unique and compelling opportunity to take this in-depth program to the next level, and to take part in the best in college football. “
Sarkisian has just been named the Broyles Awards winner this week, awarded to the top football coach for university football for helping lead the Crimson Tide to compete for the 2020 national championships.
“We are excited that Steve Sarkisian is joining us and leading the next chapter of our football program,” said Kevin Eltife, Chairman of the UT System Board of Regents. “The University of Texas football has a long and proud history of competing at the highest levels within our conference and nationally, and it brings together the coaching caliber and championship experience to restore this kind of excellence in our program.”
President Jay Hartzell said: “The appointment of Steve Sarkisian is an important investment in the future of our football program, not only for our student-athletes, but also for the entire Longhorn Nation. Our entire community benefits from a healthy and successful athletics program, and the appointment of Steve as our coach gives our football program the necessary guidance and expertise to promote further success. ‘
Prior to joining Alabama in 2019, Sarkisian served two years as offensive coordinator with the Atlanta Falcons, four years as assistant and two as head coach at the University of Southern California, and five years as head coach at the University of Washington. His head coaching record is 46-35 and 2-2 overall in bowling.
“Steve Sarkisian is one of the best offensive minds in the football game, which he has proven over and over again during his time with USC, Atlanta, and most recently, Alabama,” said Chris Del Conte, vice president and athletics director of The University of Texas and Austin. “We are confident that our players and coaches will thrive under his guidance and in response to his energy and passion for the game.”