The Texas Longhorns’ 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal loss to the Washington Huskies has served as a significant motivator for the team throughout the 2025 season.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian emphasized that the defeat has been a driving force, stating, “We don’t forget.”
2024 CFP Semifinal Setback
In the 2024 CFP semifinal, Texas faced Washington and suffered a 37-31 loss, ending their season just short of the national championship game. This narrow defeat highlighted areas for improvement and fueled the team’s determination for the following season.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, the Longhorns were poised to build on their previous success. They commenced the season with a strong performance, defeating Clemson 38-24 in the first round of the expanded 12-team playoff format. This victory marked Texas’ first in the playoff era and was a testament to their growth and resilience.
Coaching Perspective
Coach Sarkisian has been instrumental in channeling the previous year’s loss into motivation. He noted that the team has been focused on the lessons learned from the semifinal defeat, using it as fuel to drive their success in the current season.
Looking Ahead
As the Longhorns advance in the 2025 playoff, the memory of their 2024 loss continues to serve as a powerful motivator. The team’s ability to transform past setbacks into future success underscores their resilience and commitment to excellence.
