Steve Sarkisian says no to Texas Longhorns spring football game…
In a significant shift from tradition, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has announced the cancellation of the annual Orange-White spring football game for 2025. This decision reflects broader changes in college football and addresses specific challenges faced by the team.
Reasons for Cancellation
1.Player Wear and Tear: Over the past two seasons, the Longhorns have played an extensive schedule, participating in 14 games during the 2023-24 season and 16 games in the 2024-25 season, including deep runs into the College Football Playoffs. This demanding schedule has raised concerns about player fatigue and the potential for injuries. Sarkisian emphasized the importance of managing player health, stating, “I don’t know if rolling the ball out and playing the game when we only get 15 (spring) practices is the best for us.”
2.Development of Young Players: The Longhorns have seen a significant turnover in their roster, with 25 players invited to the NFL Combine over the past two years. This exodus has opened opportunities for younger athletes, including 21 early enrollees from high school. Sarkisian highlighted the need for focused development, noting, “The development that’s needed to get these guys ready for the fall is a little bit different than it used to be.”
Adopting an NFL-Style Approach
In lieu of the traditional spring game, Sarkisian plans to implement a more NFL-oriented offseason program. This approach will focus on Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and controlled scrimmages, allowing for skill development without the heightened injury risks associated with full-contact games. Sarkisian explained, “Our approach is going to be a little more NFL-driven.”
Trend Across College Football
The Longhorns are not alone in this shift. Other prominent programs, such as USC and Nebraska, have also canceled their spring games. Nebraska’s head coach, Matt Rhule, expressed concerns about player poaching during the spring transfer window, suggesting that traditional spring games might inadvertently showcase talent to competing programs.
Implications for Fans and the Program
While the cancellation of the spring game may disappoint some fans, the decision underscores a commitment to player welfare and long-term success. By prioritizing health and development, the Longhorns aim to maintain peak performance during the regular season. This strategic move reflects an evolving landscape in college football, where adaptability and proactive management are essential for sustained competitiveness.
In summary, the Texas Longhorns’ decision to forgo the 2025 spring football game is a calculated response to the demands of modern college football. By adopting an NFL-style offseason regimen and focusing on player development, the program seeks to enhance its readiness for the challenges of the upcoming season.
