BREAKING NEWS: Steve Sarkisian Wins Associated Press College Football Coach of the Year Award…

In a landmark achievement, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has been named the Associated Press College Football Coach of the Year for 2024. The prestigious honor comes after Sarkisian orchestrated a remarkable season that saw Texas return to national prominence, finishing with a dominant record and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff for the first time in school history.

Sarkisian, in his third season at the helm in Austin, has been the architect of a cultural and competitive transformation for the Longhorns. After arriving at Texas in 2021, Sarkisian faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding one of college football’s most storied programs, which had struggled to regain relevance on the national stage for over a decade. This season, he succeeded beyond expectations, guiding the team to an impressive 12-1 record, securing the Big 12 Championship, and restoring Texas’s mantra of being “back.”

Under Sarkisian’s leadership, the Longhorns thrived on both sides of the ball. Known for his offensive ingenuity, Sarkisian built one of the most explosive offenses in the country, led by star quarterback Quinn Ewers and a talented supporting cast of playmakers. Texas consistently put up big numbers, ranking among the top teams in total offense and scoring. However, it wasn’t just the offense that shone this season. Sarkisian’s emphasis on physicality and discipline also reinvigorated the Longhorns’ defense, which proved crucial in pivotal games, including their statement win against Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

Sarkisian’s success this year is also a testament to his resilience and journey in the coaching world. After overcoming personal struggles earlier in his career, Sarkisian rebuilt his reputation as one of the game’s brightest offensive minds during his stint as offensive coordinator at Alabama, where he won the Broyles Award in 2020. His time with the Crimson Tide not only honed his skills but also prepared him for the high-pressure environment in Austin.

The AP Coach of the Year honor is voted on by a panel of media members across the country and recognizes the head coach who has made the most significant impact on the field during the season. Sarkisian’s win is particularly notable given the high expectations and scrutiny surrounding the Texas program. His ability to unite the locker room, manage high-profile talent, and deliver consistent results has cemented his place as one of college football’s elite coaches.

This award also serves as a crowning achievement in a season filled with milestones for Texas. Sarkisian’s recognition not only reflects his coaching acumen but also underscores the program’s bright future as it prepares to transition to the Southeastern Conference in 2024. With recruiting momentum, a revitalized fanbase, and a newfound swagger, the Longhorns are poised to remain contenders on the national stage.

Sarkisian joins an illustrious group of past winners and becomes the first Texas coach to receive the award since Mack Brown in 2005, further solidifying his place in the program’s storied history. As the Longhorns gear up for their playoff run, Sarkisian’s award is a fitting tribute to a season that has reignited hope and pride in Burnt Orange Nation.