Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte released a statement of support for embattled head football coach Steve Sarkisian, blaming injuries and illness for the Longhorns' disappointing season.
Texas (4-6) suffered a 57-56 overtime loss to Kansas last weekend, the Longhorns' fifth straight loss. It was an embarrassing defeat for a team ranked No. 21 when the season began. The Jayhawks had lost 56 straight Big 12 road games dating back to 2008. Texas had not lost five straight games since 1956 or lost to Kansas at home in the history of the program.
“Coach Sark knew when he took the job that it's not always going to be smooth sailing, that there would be bumps in the road and — at times — choppy waters that he has to navigate through,” Del Conte wrote in the university’s Forty Acres Insider. “None of us expected what we're up against now, but that's why we hired him and a tremendous staff to allow us to build a foundation for long-term success. Our Longhorns need to continue to learn and grow from these challenging times.”
Questions about Sarkisian’s job security have been a topic of conversation despite this being his first season as head coach. Del Conte made it clear he still supports his coach and asked Texas fans to have patience. Sarkisian is in the first year of a six-year guaranteed contract that's worth about $34 million.
Del Conte pointed to injuries and illness as the primary reasons for the Longhorns' struggles. Texas lost tailback Bijan Robinson and defensive back Josh Thompson to season-ending injuries. Del Conte also pointed out 25 guys missed practice last week due to a flu bug and virus while three others were out due to COVID-19 protocols. He also said that 52% of the 2018 signing class and 46% of the 2019 class are no longer here. Overall, Del Conte said,Texas since 2018 has lost 33% of the last four classes.
"This isn't to cast any blame or make excuses. It's just factual that we have some real depth issues," Del Conte wrote. "As injuries mount, it's even more glaring."
The athletic director, who hired Sarkisian, insisted the new coach is building a winning culture.
“He has a tremendous group of coaches with him, and we are providing every ounce of support we can muster to help them redirect our program,” Del Conte wrote. “We have a group of coaches who are proven and have a wealth of experience. They have all succeeded at the highest level. They will help us do that here, too.”
Texas’ five-game losing streak is the longest since the 1-9 season in 1956. The 'Horns need to defeat West Virginia and Kanas State in their final two games to become eligible for a bowl game.
“I know we're all really disappointed, and there's a lot being said, but this is not a time to splinter or pull apart in any way,” Del Conte wrote. “We need to stay positive and remain united as a Longhorn family. We know there are better days ahead, and I know y'all will continue to be the wind beneath our wings to help lead us there."