Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian just threw a massive curveball into the college football conversation, dropping a statement that is sure to have everyone doing a double-take. Despite Texas being a heavy favorite for their opening week game against Texas State, Sarkisian isn’t writing off the Bobcats. He declared Wednesday on the Southeastern Conference coaches’ call that folks shouldn’t “be surprised at the end of November if they’re not in the talk of making the College Football Playoff.” Talk about a bold call!
Kinne’s Offensive Juggernaut
Sarkisian isn’t just blowing smoke here, either. He’s got his eyes on Texas State coach GJ Kinne, calling him “one of the best play-callers in the country.” And for good reason, too. Since his time at Incarnate Word, Kinne’s offenses have *never* put up fewer than 35 points per game. Think about that consistent firepower! This isn’t your typical mid-major squad just looking to make a splash, Sark said they’re “a really good team.”
The Bobcats’ offensive arsenal is legit. For the first time in his head coaching career, Kinne managed to retain his starting quarterback in 2026, Brad Jackson. Last season, Jackson finished an impressive sixth in the nation in total points accounted for. And who’s he throwing to? Only two returning 1,000-yard wide receivers, Chris Dawn Jr. and Beau Sparks. That’s a serious trio that could give any defense nightmares. You can bet that talent has Sarkisian’s staff and players giving Texas State their full attention.
Defensive Revamp and Playoff Aspirations
Now, the Texas State defense has been a bit of a weak spot during the Kinne era. But don’t sleep on them turning things around. The coaching staff got a complete revamp ahead of their Pac-12 debut. With an offense that can consistently light up the scoreboard for 35-plus points, the defense doesn’t need to be elite, it just needs to be average. And if they hit that mark, coupled with Kinne’s offensive genius, Sarkisian’s wild prediction starts to make a lot more sense.
Let’s be real, Sark isn’t saying Texas State is suddenly on par with SEC or Big 10 giants. Texas is still expected to “hand a beating” to their neighbors from San Marcos this Saturday. But this isn’t about that one game, it’s about the big picture. If the Bobcats manage to roll through the *rest* of their schedule, they could absolutely contend for that crucial Group of Six berth in the new 12-team playoff bracket.
So, while fans might be itching to look past Week 1 and straight to that marquee Week 2 clash against Ohio State, Sarkisian is locking in on Texas State. This Saturday’s game might look like a mismatch on paper, but if Kinne’s high-octane offense and revamped defense click, Texas State could be a major storyline unfolding by November. Keep your eyes peeled, because if the Bobcats start stacking wins, Sarkisian’s audacious claim could become a shocking reality in the College Football Playoff race.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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