Introduction
Steve Sarkisian is a household name among football lovers, especially those who follow the American football game passionately. Graduating from Brigham Young University (BYU), he has established a sterling coaching career that has spanned over two decades and multiple teams. Constantly showcasing a knack for molding talented players and executing winning play strategies, he has made a remarkable impression on every team he has worked with over the years. His journey, from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected coaches in American college football, is inspiring.
Early Life and College Career
Stephen Ambrose “Steve” Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974, in Torrance, California. He nurtured his love for sports from a young age, which saw him excel in baseball and football in high school. After a fruitful year at El Camino College, he transferred to Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, where he made his mark in the school’s football program. Despite facing stiff competition within the team, Sarkisian stood out, finishing second in the nation in passing efficiency during his senior season. His exceptional performance as a college quarterback prepared the foundation for his future career as a professional football coach.
Professional Coaching Career
Sarkisian started his coaching career as a quarterbacks coach at El Camino College before spending time as a USC assistant under Coach Pete Carroll. He then moved up the ranks to become the offensive coordinator. His competence as an offensive strategist caught the attention of the University of Washington, which appointed him as their head coach in 2008. Sarkisian revived the Huskies football program, leading them to multiple bowl appearances.
In 2014, Sarkisian returned to USC as the head coach but got dismissed midway through his second season following issues related to his personal life. Despite scaling several hurdles during this period of professional and personal turbulence, Sarkisian pressed on, moving to University of Alabama as an offensive coordinator. His tenure with Alabama was marked by numerous successes, culminating in a national championship victory in 2020.
In 2021, Sarkisian’s coaching journey took him to the University of Texas, where he was named the Longhorns’ head coach. With a wealth of experience and a track record of cultivating winning teams, Sarkisian is expected to transform Texas University’s football program.
Impact and Contributions to American Football
Beyond his coaching successes, Sarkisian’s contribution to American football is significant. Many players he groomed have gone on to have successful careers in the National Football League (NFL). Sarkisian’s football philosophy emphasizes rigorous fundamentals, aggression, and adaptability, which have become the hallmark of the teams he coaches.
Under Sarkisian’s leadership, his offensive schemes have often been touted as elaborate and unpredictable, giving his teams an edge. Sarkisian’s offense is recognized for its balance between rushing and passing attack, a model that several other coaches follow.
Notes
Image Description
The image for this article is a portrait of Steve Sarkisian wearing a burnt orange University of Texas polo shirt with the Longhorn logo visible on the right. He is smiling, looking directly at the camera, with a Blue NCAA Football field as the backdrop.