Texas AD defends program amid mounting pressure on Arch Manning, Steve Sarkisian
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Texas, ranked No. 19 with a 4-2 record, faces a critical College Football Playoff battle against No. 7 Ole Miss after back-to-back losses to unranked teams, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy.
- Despite external criticism, Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte described the program's state as "phenomenal," defending coach Steve Sarkisian and quarterback Arch Manning amid calls for evaluation following recent struggles.
- The Longhorns have struggled offensively, averaging just 22.7 points per game against SEC opponents, with Manning throwing five interceptions in six starts this season, raising questions about his performance and Sarkisian's play-calling.
- Texas' recent skid began with a loss to Oklahoma after a strong first half, followed by a disappointing defeat to Florida, where the offense faltered and Manning was sacked five times, including a critical strip-sack.
- Texas will also be without top defensive player Colin Simmons due to an ankle injury, further challenging their ability to compete against Ole Miss in a must-win game.
