A big part of Texas' historic comeback win over Ohio State was two key fourth down conversions. When asked about the decision after the game, Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian gave a defiant answer.
Late in the third quarter, as the Longhorns were driving for their first touchdown, Sarkisian was faced with a big decision. On their own 42 yard line and facing a 4th and 9, Texas went for it. Many coaches would have punted that early in the game and hope their defense could get the ball back.
On the next drive, the Horns were similarly faced with 4th and 6 from their own 32. Again, Sark went for it. He was asked about the decision in the postgame press conference. He said he never thought about punting.
"Nah, that's how losers think," Sarkisian said.
"Winners win, baby. You gotta go for it. Keep it close? They didn't hire me to keep it close. They hired me to win."
This win may have unlocked a new level of Steve Sarkisian swagger pic.twitter.com/KPPn8Ezg2g
— Will Thomas (@willthomascfb) September 13, 2026
Sarkisian's career has certainly had its ups and downs. Sark is aggressive, and sometimes it has backfired. But, especially in modern football, you can't play scared. Especially, when you're already down by 20 points. Sark made two bold calls on 4th down and it paid off spectacularly.
Longhorns Big 4th & Long Convert. Need to Score Fast pic.twitter.com/AV6bNhcvKL
— Surf TrekTonics (@trektonics) September 13, 2026
Texas another Clutch 4th Down Convert pic.twitter.com/iF7W7jmoca
— Surf TrekTonics (@trektonics) September 13, 2026
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Sark: 'They didn't hire me to keep it close. They hired me to win.'
