USA TODAY Sports Names Texas’ Steve Sarkisian Most Likely to Win 1st National Title in ’25
In a bold prediction that has Texas Longhorns fans buzzing with excitement, USA TODAY Sports has named head coach Steve Sarkisian as the most likely to win his first national title in 2025. This recognition highlights not only the progress made under Sarkisian’s leadership but also the growing confidence that the Longhorns are on the brink of returning to national prominence after years of mediocrity.
With the 2025 college football season rapidly approaching, Sarkisian’s efforts to build a championship-caliber program at Texas are beginning to bear fruit, and the national media is taking notice. In a year where many elite programs are eyeing the College Football Playoff and national title contention, the Longhorns have emerged as one of the top contenders—and Sarkisian’s leadership is at the heart of their resurgence.
Steve Sarkisian’s Ascension to National Title Contender
When Steve Sarkisian took over the reins of Texas football in 2021, the program was in the midst of a rebuilding phase. Despite being one of the most storied programs in college football history, the Longhorns had struggled to consistently compete for championships in recent years. However, Sarkisian, known for his offensive acumen and leadership abilities, was brought in with a clear mandate: to restore Texas to its former glory and bring the program back to the top of college football.
The early stages of Sarkisian’s tenure were marked by growing pains, but there were signs of improvement. His ability to recruit top-tier talent, combined with a solid coaching staff, laid the foundation for what is quickly becoming a team capable of competing with the best in the nation. By 2025, the Longhorns’ roster is shaping up to be one of the most talented in the country, with high-profile recruits and established players ready to make a major impact.
Sarkisian’s offensive mind, particularly his work with quarterbacks and playcalling, has made a significant difference for Texas. Under his leadership, the Longhorns’ offense has taken a more dynamic approach, showcasing a balance between high-flying passing attacks and a powerful running game. This versatility has made Texas a formidable opponent for any defense, and it’s expected to be a major strength as they chase a national title.
Sarkisian’s Key Ingredients for Success
So, what makes Steve Sarkisian the coach most likely to win a national title in 2025? There are several factors at play that have positioned Texas as a serious contender, and all of them point to Sarkisian’s strategic leadership.
1. Elite Recruiting Class
Sarkisian’s ability to recruit has been a major asset in his quest to bring a national title to Texas. The Longhorns have consistently landed highly-ranked recruiting classes under his watch, and the 2025 cycle is shaping up to be one of their best yet. The addition of key players like Arch Manning (the highly-touted quarterback) and Tre Johnson (the 5-star offensive lineman) has provided Texas with the depth and talent necessary to compete at the highest level. These recruits, along with a mix of experienced veterans, give the Longhorns a complete roster capable of competing for a national championship.
2. Quarterback Development
A crucial component of any national title-contending team is strong quarterback play, and Sarkisian has proven he can develop quarterbacks at a high level. Whether it’s nurturing the talent of a young quarterback or refining the skills of an experienced one, Sarkisian has demonstrated a keen ability to make his signal-callers thrive. As Arch Manning settles in as the future face of Texas football, Sarkisian’s expertise will be critical in getting the most out of his potential. If Manning can live up to the hype and develop into the player many expect him to be, the Longhorns’ offense will become even more explosive.
3. Offensive Versatility
One of Sarkisian’s defining characteristics as a coach is his offensive versatility. His ability to adapt his offensive schemes to exploit opponents’ weaknesses has made Texas an unpredictable force on the field. Whether it’s incorporating a fast-paced passing game or establishing a dominant run game, Sarkisian has shown he can create a balanced attack that keeps defenses on their toes. This offensive flexibility is a key asset for any team aiming for a national title, as it allows for adjustments in any game scenario—especially in high-stakes moments.
4. Defensive Improvement
While Sarkisian is primarily known for his offensive prowess, he has also placed a significant emphasis on improving Texas’ defense. With Pete Kwiatkowski leading the defensive unit, the Longhorns have steadily improved on that side of the ball. A national championship-winning team requires balance, and a defense that can complement the offensive fireworks is crucial. With a strong defensive line and a secondary that is expected to be one of the best in the Big 12, Texas is positioned to handle high-powered offenses when it matters most.
5. Coaching Stability and Culture
One of the most important factors in Texas’ rise to national title contention is the stability that Sarkisian has brought to the program. In a landscape where coaching changes are often frequent and disruptive, Sarkisian has instilled a sense of continuity and a winning culture within the Longhorns. His leadership style has fostered an environment where players know what to expect and can focus on executing the game plan without the distraction of instability. This stability is critical as Texas aims for a College Football Playoff berth and, ultimately, a national championship.
Sarkisian’s Personal Motivation
For Sarkisian, the 2025 season represents more than just a chance to win a national title—it’s an opportunity to prove that his system works at the highest level. Sarkisian has been a part of high-profile coaching staffs at Washington, USC, and Alabama, but his tenure as a head coach has been somewhat overshadowed by questions about whether he could achieve success on his own. A national title would not only cement his legacy but also affirm that Texas made the right decision in hiring him.
Moreover, winning a national title with Texas would be a personal and professional triumph for Sarkisian, who has faced significant challenges throughout his career. From overcoming personal struggles to dealing with the pressure of being at the helm of a program as prestigious as Texas, a championship would validate all of his hard work and perseverance.
The Road Ahead: Can Sarkisian Deliver?
Despite the excitement surrounding Texas football, there are still hurdles to clear before the Longhorns can capture their first national title in over a decade. The Big 12 remains competitive, with teams like Oklahoma and Baylor consistently challenging for the top spots in the conference. Additionally, the College Football Playoff field has become more difficult to navigate, with several elite programs dominating the landscape.
However, with Sarkisian’s leadership, the Longhorns have the tools they need to succeed. The 2025 season will undoubtedly be a pivotal one for Texas football, and Sarkisian’s ability to keep the team focused, adaptable, and well-prepared will be the key to reaching the ultimate goal.