Steve Sarkisian explains why Texas is built for big moment in Sugar Bowl

Texas has not been in this type of moment in a long time. For the first time since the 2009 season, the Longhorns are competing for a national championship. Steve Sarkisian has gone from a losing record in Year 1 to a College Football Playoff just a couple of seasons later.

Coming a long way, Sarkisian was asked why his team is ready for the moment. He has confidence after some of the big-time matchups Texas has played in the past. Why would anything be different in the Sugar Bowl against Washington?

“I just think we’re built for this moment,” Sarkisian said during his pregame interview with ESPN. “Our guys have worked to get to this point. We’ve played a couple of really big ball games. We’ve always performed well in the moment. I expect nothing else out of them tonight.”

Texas has certainly shown up in big games, even if they have resulted in losses. Heading into the game, Sarkisian mentioned how the Alabama game in 2022 was a turning point for the program, giving the players belief. And then there was the rematch this season, going into Tuscaloosa and getting a defining win.

All three of the Oklahoma matchups have been ginormous moments for Texas too since Sarkisian arrived. The spotlight has certainly not shied away from the 40 Acres.

Monday night will be the biggest stage of them all, though. Not too many people wearing burnt orange have been involved in a College Football Playoff before. The moment now awaits them.

Steve Sarkisian feels like his team is ready to play after time off

Another part of playing in a College Football Playoff semifinal is having some time off. Texas last played on Dec. 2 against Oklahoma State in the Big 12 Championship game. Getting off to a fast start is key and Sarkisian has a plan to do so.

“We got to practice really well, which I think we did,” Sarkisian said. “And we got to call some things to find some rhythm early in the ball game.”

Getting in rhythm is key for Sarkisian’s offense, especially with Quinn Ewers running the show. Getting quick and easy chunk plays will only grow his confidence before eventually testing the Washington defense down the field.

Starting out rusty is not really an option either, especially if Washington is able to come out firing. Sarkisian’s interview showed some confidence and he should get to show what he’s got right away.