Texas Triumph: Steve Sarkisian’s Longhorns Dominate Florida, Shake Up College Football Playoff Race

Kevin Sherrington: Steve Sarkisian, Longhorns Don’t Blink, Easily Dismiss Florida to Climb Up CFP Rankings

In a game that was supposed to test the mettle of Texas coach Steve Sarkisian and his high-flying Longhorns, it became glaringly clear that Florida was nothing more than a stepping stone on Texas’ relentless march towards College Football Playoff glory. The Longhorns, unfazed and unimpressed, dismantled the Gators in a dominant display of power and precision, further fueling the argument that this Texas team may be the best in the nation.

What we witnessed Saturday was not just a victory—it was a statement, and it’s time the college football world starts paying attention. Steve Sarkisian’s squad strolled into the Swamp and humiliated Florida on their home turf, securing a 38-14 win that left no doubt about where this Texas team belongs in the College Football Playoff rankings.

But here’s the controversial question: Should Texas now be considered the favorite to win the national championship? After this latest display, it’s becoming harder to argue otherwise.

Sarkisian’s Team: Overrated or Undeniable?

Critics have argued that Texas hasn’t faced real adversity this season, citing their relatively manageable Big 12 schedule. But let’s not forget their early season victory over Alabama—a triumph that looked to be an upset at the time but now appears to be a harbinger of Texas’ dominance. Detractors may point to Florida’s struggles this season, questioning how much weight this victory carries. Still, Florida is no pushover, especially in the hostile confines of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This was supposed to be a test of Texas’ grit, but instead, it was a showcase of their growing superiority.

The victory has propelled Texas further up the CFP rankings, sparking controversy among pundits who argue that teams like Georgia and Michigan deserve higher spots based on their undefeated records. But let’s face it: Texas has the best win of any contender with their decisive victory in Tuscaloosa. Sarkisian’s squad has proven they can go toe-to-toe with the best, and Saturday’s game was just more evidence of their readiness to compete for a national title.

Quinn Ewers: The Real Heisman Contender?

For weeks, the Heisman Trophy discussion has been dominated by names like Caleb Williams and Michael Penix Jr., but maybe it’s time we give some serious consideration to Quinn Ewers. The Texas quarterback played like a man possessed, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns against Florida’s vaunted defense. While critics have been quick to dismiss Ewers as a “system quarterback,” there’s no denying his impact on the field.

Ewers has evolved from a mere game manager into a bona fide playmaker, leading his team with poise and precision. His performance on Saturday was yet another testament to his growth under Sarkisian’s tutelage. And if Texas continues this trajectory, don’t be surprised if Ewers finds himself in New York for the Heisman ceremony.

Florida’s Downfall: The End of the Billy Napier Era?

While the Longhorns are basking in the glow of victory, questions are swirling in Gainesville about the future of Florida’s head coach Billy Napier. This was supposed to be the game where the Gators could re-establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with, but instead, it has thrown the program into deeper turmoil.

Napier, now in his third season, has failed to deliver the kind of turnaround Florida fans were promised. The loss to Texas wasn’t just a defeat—it was an embarrassment, and the calls for his firing have grown louder in the aftermath. There’s a growing sentiment that Florida has regressed under Napier, and this latest debacle might be the nail in the coffin for his tenure.

The Controversy Surrounding Texas’ Playoff Hopes

As the Longhorns climb higher in the CFP rankings, there’s an air of controversy surrounding their candidacy. Some argue that Texas is benefitting from a weak Big 12 schedule, while others point out that the SEC bias is real, and the Longhorns are being unfairly penalized in comparison to teams like Georgia and Alabama.

But let’s be honest here—Texas has done everything asked of them. They’ve won the games they were supposed to win, often in dominant fashion. They’ve beaten the teams that were supposed to challenge them, and they’ve done it convincingly. At some point, we need to acknowledge that Texas belongs in the same conversation as the elite teams of college football.

If the College Football Playoff committee truly values strength of schedule and quality wins, then Texas should be a lock for the top four. Their victory over Alabama alone should carry more weight than anything Michigan or Georgia has accomplished this season.

What’s Next for Sarkisian and the Longhorns?

As the Longhorns continue their quest for a national championship, all eyes will be on Steve Sarkisian. The former Alabama offensive coordinator has had his share of critics, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to deny his impact on this Texas team. He’s brought a level of discipline and swagger that has been missing from the program for years.

Texas still has a few hurdles to clear before the season ends, but with the way they’re playing, it’s hard to see anyone standing in their way. The question is no longer if Texas can make the playoffs, but rather, can anyone stop them once they get there?

If Sarkisian can lead this team to a national championship, it will be one of the greatest turnarounds in recent college football history. For now, though, let’s just enjoy the ride—and watch as the Longhorns continue to prove their doubters wrong.