Texas football is making a bold play this season, and all eyes are on the newly appointed defensive coordinator, Will Muschamp, to help steer the team to glory. With a history at Texas from 2008 to 2010, Muschamp returns with a mission: to elevate the Longhorns to the pinnacle of college football.
The decision to part ways with former defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski was a significant one for head coach Steve Sarkisian, but it was a move he deemed essential. "When you get a chance to really evaluate your program and where you’re at and also where you’re headed and what you’re trying to accomplish, sometimes change is needed," Sarkisian explained back in December. Bringing in coaches like Jabbar Juluke and Muschamp was an opportunity Sarkisian couldn't pass up.
Muschamp's reputation for aggressive defensive schemes and dynamic play-calling made him the ideal candidate to join Texas from Georgia. Yet, it’s not just his tactical acumen that has impressed Sarkisian. Muschamp's prowess in recruiting has been a pleasant surprise, drawing top-tier high school and Transfer Portal talent to the program.
"Adding Will to the mix is another added bonus. He's a relentless recruiter," Sarkisian noted on Monday.
"It's something that's probably exceeded my expectations. I knew him as a playcaller, motivator, the guy putting together the defense.
It's been a real added bonus, something that has caught my attention."
A key part of Muschamp's role involves working with established players on the Longhorns' defense, including last year's Southeastern Conference sack leader, Colin Simmons. While Muschamp’s defenses emphasize aggression, there are questions about whether players like Simmons will have to adapt to new roles, such as dropping into coverage more often.
Sarkisian addressed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the potential of star players like Simmons. "We're always going to try to put our best players in the position to have success because they're game-changing players," he said.
"I think Colin has really embraced the new defense. I think there's really good rapport with Colin Simmons and Will Muschamp."
Known for his high-energy coaching style, Muschamp brings passion and intensity to every aspect of his role. One memorable moment from his previous stint at Texas was when he famously smashed a whiteboard during a halftime speech-a testament to his fiery approach.
Sarkisian appreciates this intensity, stating, "I see the video of him hitting the board and I love that stuff quite frankly. But his relationships that he has forged in our building already have been awesome... that's another aspect of him that I think he's exceeded some of those expectations."
With the 2026 season on the horizon, the stakes are high for the Longhorns. Hiring Muschamp is a calculated risk, but Sarkisian is confident that Muschamp is the coach Texas needs to pursue a National Championship.