In a recent press conference, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian made headlines with a comment that many fans took as a veiled jab at Ohio State. While discussing the Longhorns' spring practice schedule, Sarkisian highlighted the academic demands placed on his players.
"Our players have to go to school at the University of Texas. They have to go in person," Sarkisian remarked. "You know, we don’t get to go online every day and do it maybe like some other folks get to do it."
Though Sarkisian didn’t directly mention Ohio State, the timing was intriguing. Former Buckeyes receiver Mylan Graham, who transferred to Notre Dame, recently commented on adjusting to in-person classes in South Bend.
"Not too different," Graham noted about his transition. "Just have to actually go in person, just stuff like that. And at Notre Dame, obviously, everybody knows how it is with academics, so just being able to lock in with stuff like that."
Sarkisian’s comments quickly spread across social media, with fans speculating about a possible critique of Ohio State's academic practices. This adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming season, especially considering last year’s tight 14-7 victory by Ohio State over Texas at Ohio Stadium-a game that played a role in keeping the Longhorns out of the College Football Playoff.
As the teams prepare to meet again this fall at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, Sarkisian’s words are likely to linger in the minds of Buckeyes fans and players alike.