Texas Football: Steve Sarkisian’s culture is trending up

Culture is a vague term often thrown out when describing the ills of Texas football of late.

The consensus among fans is Texas needed a culture change after moving on from Tom Herman. Prior to Steve Sarkisian, the Texas football program was never completely united. This offseason, it appears Sarkisian’s culture improves every day.

One can point to a few moves that have already improved the culture at Texas. Inarguably, Texas has weeded out some of the negative energy from past regimes. After losing to Iowa State, Bo Davis insisted Texas needed to fix its culture. Players took his impassioned speech to heart. Those who bought in to Sarkisian’s vision stayed. As a result the program is stronger.

Here’s what you can keep an eye on to measure subjective cultural improvements.

Watch the safeties

AP Photo/Orlin Wagner

This years group of Texas safeties appear to be hard-working, selfless players. Not every Texas safety has fit that description over the past decade. Last year, effort level from the safety position ranged from overzealous to apathetic. Some players were caught out of position. Others were caught jogging as they escorted opponents to the end zone. This year’s group figures to err toward playing with too much effort. Texas will take that over apathy any day.

Improved Leadership

Syndication: Austin American-Statesman

While it would be unwise to count Hudson Card out of the quarterback battle, players have taken an obvious liking to Ohio State transfer Quinn Ewers. He appears to one of Texas’ top receiver’s best buds.

Ewers has been seen with teammates virtually all offseason. The bond he and fellow teammates are making should pay dividends.

Increased respect for Xavier Worthy, Bijan Robinson, and Jahdae Barron after strong campaigns in 2021 should help the three be more vocal as well.

Unity

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

This year’s Texas team already appears tighter than past squads. Togetherness seemed to be a point of emphasis for Steve Sarkisian this offseason. While players certainly hang out with fellow teammates, Texas seems more eager to document it on social media this season.

While one can’t place too much weight in social media, what we see from Texas players and coaches is encouraging.

Youthful energy from coaching additions

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Brennan Marion and Tashard Choice are no doubt two of the top young coaches in college football. What they bring in football knowledge is only bolstered by their energy and connection with their players.

Last year’s Kansas loss was a culture loss. Three straight come from behind losses wore on the Texas squad. Young coaches like Choice and Marion could have the charisma necessary to speak life into the team when adversity strikes.

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