For the first time since 2018, it might be accurate to say that Texas football is back after its win over the Alabama in Tuscaloosa on Saturday night. The Longhorns handed Nick Saban his first-ever home loss by double digits as a college football coach with the 34-24 victory. Steve Sarkisian became just the third former Saban assistant to knock off the greatest of all-time.
It is worth some skepticism, because the Crimson Tide did not look like the Crimson Tide of old, but a statement was made. Texas looked pretty legit!
Quinn Ewers was the star, completing 24-of-38 passes for 349 yards and three touchdowns to silence any questions about whether Arch Manning is the better choice at quarterback. Three Longhorns receivers went for more than 75 yards on the evening with former Georgia pass-catcher A.D. Mitchell scoring twice.
Another player to grace the stat sheet, though not in a significant capacity, was running back Keilan Robinson. He had three carries and a catch.
The former three-star recruit began his career at Alabama and later transferred to Texas just over two years ago. As soon as the game came to an end, Robinson made a statement.
Saturday’s game was played in the Yellowhammer State. It was one of the most-anticipated games of the season.
Saban and his staff had a large number of high-profile recruits in town to watch the top-15 matchup. They were seated in the far end zone.
Moments after the clock hit zero, Robinson — who has spent time at both schools — ran over to the Crimson Tide recruits and sent a very clear message. He told them to rethink their decision and play for the Longhorns instead. A few other players, including five-star Johntay Cook who chose Texas over Bama, joined Robinson to echo his pitch.
Alabama fans were quick to point at the stat sheet and Robinson’s performance. It doesn’t matter.
The Longhorns took the opportunity to not only troll the Tide, but actively recruit their players on their home field after a historic win. Brutal for the home team.