Sarkisian Named to Dodd Trophy Midseason Watch List
The Texas head coach joins the midseason list for the award that tracks on-field performance and integrity.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Football
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Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has been named to the 2026 Dodd Trophy midseason watch list. The recognition follows a strong start to the season for the team, which currently holds a 4-1 record.
Why it matters
The Dodd Trophy honors college football coaches who balance athletic success with high standards of scholarship, leadership, and integrity. This midseason placement highlights the coach's impact as the team navigates its schedule in the SEC.
The Longhorns currently boast a No. 7 national ranking and a 12-game home winning streak, supported by a scoring defense that allows an average of 16.0 points. The final recipient of the award, which evaluates both field performance and personal integrity, remains to be seen.
The players
Steve Sarkisian
He is the head coach of the University of Texas football team.
The Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation
This organization oversees the annual presentation of The Dodd Trophy.
The details
The selection committee evaluates candidates based on gridiron success and the personal characteristics of leadership and integrity. Texas reached this level of recognition following key victories against AP Top 15 opponents Ohio State and Tennessee. The team will look to extend its 12-game home winning streak when it hosts Florida at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: The Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation announced the midseason watch list.
October 17, 2026: Texas is scheduled to host the Florida game.
The Texas Context
This midseason recognition reflects the program's current rise relative to historical benchmarks like the 1977 season, when the team held the No. 1 ranking for five weeks. The inclusion of Sarkisian on the list aligns the 2026 squad with the high standards expected of Longhorns football.
Fans heading to DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium for the October 17 game against Florida should plan for standard game-day traffic and arrival times. The team's active home winning streak remains a key point of interest for supporters attending upcoming matches this season.
The takeaway
The Dodd Trophy midseason list emphasizes the importance of balancing competitive success with academic and personal integrity. Keep an eye on the upcoming home game against Florida as the team works to maintain its 12-game home winning streak.
Further reading
Stay updated on the latest team developments and coaching milestones in our Football section.
Live Poll
Should college football coaches be evaluated based on team integrity as much as game wins?
