Steve Sarkisian Named to Dodd Trophy Watch List

The Texas head coach earned recognition for his leadership and success on the field this season.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Football

Steve Sarkisian Named to Dodd Trophy Watch List

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Should college football coaches be evaluated based on team integrity as much as game wins?

The Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation has added University of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian to the 2026 Dodd Trophy midseason watch list. The honor highlights coaches who demonstrate excellence on the gridiron alongside integrity, scholarship, and leadership off the field.

Why it matters

The Dodd Trophy recognizes head coaches who balance competitive success with high personal standards. Sarkisian earned this distinction following key victories against AP Top 15 opponents Ohio State and Tennessee.

Texas currently holds a 4-1 record and a 12-game home winning streak at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. The team is ranked No. 7 with a scoring defense averaging 16.0 points.

The players

Steve Sarkisian

He is the head coach for the University of Texas football team.

Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation

This organization oversees the presentation of The Dodd Trophy to college football coaches.

The details

The selection committee based its decision on Texas football's performance, including a defensive showing of 49 total takeaways and 200 points converted from those turnovers during their 26-game home stretch. The team also demonstrated offensive versatility, including a season-high 231 rushing yards against UTSA.

Oct 13, 2026: Announcement of Dodd Trophy midseason watch list.
Oct 17, 2026: Texas hosts Florida game.

Season Trajectory

This midseason recognition highlights Texas's successful transition into the SEC while keeping them in contention for post-season accolades. The performance marks a clear shift in competitive balance, with the team currently positioning itself as a challenger for higher national rankings.

The nomination reflects the ongoing success of the current 12-game home winning streak. With the upcoming game against Florida on October 17, fans can track whether the defense continues its streak of forcing a turnover in every home game since 1996.

The takeaway

Coaches who maintain both team discipline and on-field results are prioritized for this national award. Implementing consistent defensive pressure has served as a key strategy for the Texas program under Sarkisian's leadership.