Steve Sarkisian’s coaching career was in significant jeopardy after getting fired from USC back in 2015. Sarkisian dealt with struggles on and off the football field, most notably an alcohol issue that impacted his work life.
Looking to get back into the game of football, Sarkisian fielded little interest from any college or professional programs. Sarkisian was ready to take a job in TV before Nick Saban came calling.
The legendary Alabama head coach gave Sarkisian an opportunity in an analyst role. A low-paying analyst role was a major step down compared to his prestigious head coaching job at USC, but it was Sarkisian’s best chance to rebuild his career.
Sarkisian took the role with Alabama for the 2016 season, where he quickly earned the trust of Saban.
Former Alabama offensive coordinator and now Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin left the Tide for the FAU job ahead of the CFP national championship game. Saban chose to promote Sarkisian to call plays in the most important game of the year.
Sarkisian had a quick stint in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons before returning to Alabama as the offensive coordinator in 2020.
Alabama won the 2020 national title anchored by a historic offensive attack led by Sarkisian, leading to Texas hiring Sarkisian as its head coach following the season.
Sarkisian went into detail about his relationship with Saban on “The Pivot” podcast. He credits Saban with “saving his coaching career.”
“Nick Saban saved my career." – Steve Sarkisian
— Cruz Oxenreider (@TheRealCruzOx) April 11, 2023
[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbz52bnpekkafqb player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=]
Contact/Follow us @LonghornsWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas news, notes and opinions.