Steve Sarkisian maintained his firm support in the No. 1 Texas Longhorns despite suffering a stunning 27-24 loss to the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday night.
Texas performed very well in the first half, outscoring Oklahoma 17-7 in the opening 30 minutes of regulation. Manning performed solid throughout that frame, but he regressed in a major way in the last 30 minutes.
The Sooners took full advantage, outscoring the Longhorns 20-7 in the second half. They used a pick-6 interception and a game-winning field goal in the dying seconds to stun the top-ranked squad in the country.
Sarkisian reflected on the loss after the game, via Inside Texas. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, he said the locker room atmosphere remained competitive as they have determination to get back on the right track.
“What gives me confidence is the competitive spirit in that locker room.” Sarkisian said about the confidence in his team going forward. “They're obviously disappointed. They're frustrated. They wanted to win today more than anybody, believe me.”
How Steve Sarkisian, Texas performed against Oklahoma
Article Continues BelowSteve Sarkisian and No. 1 Texas will have to take a hard look at themselves for losing the game to Oklahoma in the way they did. The loss will certainly have them drop significantly in the next AP Top 25 poll, showing the stakes a national contender has of being one of the top teams in the country.
Cam Coleman led all receivers with five catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Ryan Wingo and Jermaine Bishop Jr. caught the remaining touchdown passes.
The No. 1 Longhorns will look to bounce back in their next matchup, being at home. They host the No. 16 Florida Gators in Week 7 as kickoff commences on Oct. 17 at 12 p.m. ET.