Steve Sarkisian reacts to Texas' win over Arkansas: 'They were going to make us earn it'

In the third quarter of Saturday’s game between Texas and Arkansas, things got interesting. The Razorbacks got a touchdown from Ja’Quinden Jackson and a field goal to cut the Longhorns’ lead to 13-10 as they searched for an upset.

But Steve Sarkisian’s group answered with a quick touchdown drive. It was a strong response, and Sarkisian knew the Longhorns would have to earn a victory.

After Arkansas made it 13-10, Texas took 3:39 to go 75 yards on a drive capped by an impressive touchdown pass from Matthew Golden from Quinn Ewers. Texas used five run plays and three pass plays, including the 1-yard touchdown connection, to regain control. Sarkisian praised that response and said it was the type of drive he expected against a tough Arkansas defense.

“It was just one of those days they were going to make us earn it,” Sarkisian told ABC’s Katie George after the 20-10 victory. “We weren’t going to get many chunk plays, so we had to be really efficient. I thought that was a really efficient drive on the ground, hitting a couple passes. Great catch by Golden for the touchdown.”

Texas’ offense was impressive, led by a balanced attack. Ewers completed 20 of 32 passes for 176 yards and two touchdowns while Jaydon Blue led the Longhorns with 83 rushing yards. But the defense was also in control, holding Arkansas to 231 yards – including 149 passing yards from Taylen Green.

Steve Sarkisian praised the defensive performance against Arkansas’ offense, which can make some big plays. To do it on the road, he said, was especially impressive.

“Our defense played fantastic,” Sarkisian said. “I thought Jahdae Barron had a great game, as well. Alfred Collins, another a great day. That’s a really explosive offense. To hold these guys to 10 points at home, that’s a heck of a job.”

Texas will now return home to take on Kentucky as the race to the SEC Championship heats up. Kickoff is set for Nov. 23 at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.