Steve Sarkisian Faces Criticism After Ohio State Loss

The highly anticipated college football season opener between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes on August 30, 2025, delivered drama both on and off the field. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, already under pressure following last season’s disappointing playoff exit at the hands of Ohio State, found himself at the center of controversy once again. His play-calling, particularly in high-stakes red zone situations, drew sharp criticism from fans and analysts alike.

High Expectations and Familiar Struggles

Heading into the game, much of the spotlight was on Arch Manning, the highly touted quarterback making his debut as Texas’s full-time starter. Analysts had pegged Manning as a potential top pick in the upcoming NFL draft, and Texas fans were hopeful that his leadership would mark a turning point for the team. However, the Longhorns’ performance fell short of expectations, especially in critical moments.

Early in the game, Sarkisian’s decision-making came under fire. On their opening drive, Texas faced two fourth-down situations. While Manning managed to convert a quarterback sneak on the first attempt, the second gamble—a run up the middle by CJ Baxter—was stopped short by Ohio State’s defense, led by linebacker Arvell Reese. According to The Spun, this defensive stand set the tone for the game and amplified scrutiny of Sarkisian’s aggressive play-calling.

Red Zone Woes Resurface

The third quarter proved to be a turning point, as Texas once again faltered in the red zone—a recurring issue that harkened back to their playoff loss against Ohio State earlier this year. With the Longhorns trailing 7-0, they reached a first-and-goal situation at the Buckeyes’ nine-yard line. What followed was a sequence of four conservative run plays, culminating in a failed quarterback sneak by Manning on fourth-and-goal. Ohio State’s defense held firm, and the Buckeyes regained possession.

Criticism of Sarkisian’s play-calling came swiftly. Saturday Down South highlighted fan reactions on social media, with many questioning why Sarkisian, often lauded as an offensive mastermind, seemed incapable of devising effective red zone strategies. One fan remarked, “How is Steve Sarkisian such a wizard play-caller, yet his teams always stink in the red zone?” Another called him “the most overrated offensive coordinator.”

Missed Opportunities and Mounting Pressure

Texas’s offensive struggles were not limited to the red zone. By the end of the third quarter, Manning had managed just 38 passing yards and 34 rushing yards, a lackluster performance for a quarterback of his caliber. The Longhorns’ running game also underperformed, with only 85 combined rushing yards from Quintrevion Wisner and CJ Baxter. Sports Illustrated reported that these inefficiencies compounded the pressure on Sarkisian, whose conservative approach in critical moments frustrated fans and analysts alike.

The situation deteriorated further when Manning threw an interception on Texas’s next drive, leading to another Ohio State touchdown. By then, the Buckeyes had extended their lead to 14-0, and the Longhorns’ chances of a comeback appeared slim. Sarkisian’s inability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities left many questioning his leadership and game management.

What Lies Ahead for Sarkisian and the Longhorns

As the dust settles on this disappointing season opener, the Texas Longhorns and their head coach face a challenging road ahead. Sarkisian’s reputation as an offensive guru is under scrutiny, and his decisions in high-pressure situations will undoubtedly be analyzed in the weeks to come. For Manning, the young quarterback must quickly rebound and prove that he can lead Texas to success, despite the setbacks.

The Longhorns’ next game will provide an opportunity to regroup and address their shortcomings. Whether they can rise to the occasion and fulfill the high expectations placed upon them remains to be seen. For now, the echoes of their struggles against Ohio State serve as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead.

In the world of college football, redemption often comes swiftly—but only for those who are willing to learn from their mistakes and adapt. For Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns, the clock is ticking.