The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is set to bring some serious fireworks to Camping World Stadium in Orlando, where Texas and Michigan are gearing up for a high-stakes showdown. Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns touched down in Orlando six days ahead of the game, giving themselves plenty of time to acclimate, prep, and stay locked in for what promises to be a physical, high-energy clash.
Sarkisian didn’t make the trip alone. His wife, Loreal Sarkisian-already well-known among fans for her sharp sense of style-was right there with him, along with their baby.
And true to form, Loreal made sure the youngest member of the Sarkisian family traveled in style. She gave fans a peek at the baby’s game-day wardrobe, which included pieces from luxury fashion house Balmain Paris.
We’re talking denim with matching pants, crisp white and black tees, and a few other standout pieces that made it clear: fashion doesn’t take a backseat, even during bowl season.
The family’s presence in Orlando adds a personal touch to what’s shaping up to be a pivotal game for Texas. Sarkisian has been building something in Austin, and this bowl game is another chance to show how far the program has come under his leadership.
On the other side, Michigan’s coaching situation has added an unexpected twist. Initially, it looked like interim coach Biff Poggi would be calling the shots in the Citrus Bowl. But with the Wolverines bringing in Kyle Whittingham as their new head coach, there’s a bit of uncertainty about who will actually be on the sidelines for this one.
Whittingham’s arrival is a major move for Michigan. He brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for building tough, disciplined teams. The big question now: will he take the reins immediately and coach the Citrus Bowl, or will Poggi handle the game while Whittingham observes and starts laying the groundwork for the future?
Either way, Whittingham’s hiring adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling matchup. If he does coach, all eyes will be on how he manages the roster, what kind of game plan he installs on short notice, and whether he can lead Michigan to a statement win in his debut.
Texas, meanwhile, will be looking to cap off their season with a strong performance under Sarkisian, who’s had this team trending upward. With the program’s trajectory pointing toward national relevance, a win here could serve as a springboard heading into next season.
So whether it's about who’s calling the shots for Michigan or how Texas handles the moment under Sarkisian, the Citrus Bowl isn’t short on storylines. And with both programs bringing plenty of talent and ambition to Orlando, this one has all the ingredients for a memorable postseason clash.