College Football

Steve Sarkisian isn’t considering changes at offensive play caller, special teams coordinator

October 11, 2026

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian reaffirmed his confidence in his offensive play-calling role and special teams coordinator Jeff Banks following a disappointing 27-24 loss to Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry. The defeat dropped Texas from the top of both major polls, and the team’s offense struggled to find consistency, with quarterback Arch Manning throwing two interceptions—including one returned for a touchdown—and the running game averaging just 8.2 yards per carry through five games.

Freshman Derek Cooper led the rushing attack with 41 yards in the loss, while senior kicker Gianni Spetic missed a 53-yard field goal in the final minutes, compounding special teams miscues that included a blocked punt recovered for a Sooners touchdown and a kickoff out of bounds. Despite mounting criticism over his dual role as head coach and offensive play caller—a setup that has produced only one national champion since 1997—Sarkisian dismissed any potential changes, insisting his offensive expertise remains a strength.

Banks also retained his special teams duties despite a series of costly turnovers.