Texas Makes Unpopular Decision for Week 1 Game Against Ohio State

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cami Griffin | Last updated May 23, 2025 1:28 AM ET

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian appears to approach each decision with thoughtful consideration and acknowledge its potential impact.

On Thursday, Horns247 reported that Sarkisian had the primary say on when the kickoff time would be for the season opener against Ohio State in Columbus. It's no doubt the biggest game of the week and reports indicate that the Buckeyes suggested moving the kickoff to primetime and/or to a later date during Labor Day weekend.

Sarkisian declined those suggestions.

The Week 1 matchup will kick off at 12 p.m. ET on FOX. Last year, Texas benefited from an early season road game against a top-10 team. The Longhorns traveled to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and defeated the Wolverines 31-12. The start time for that matchup was also 12 p.m. ET.

It's unclear the reasoning behind Sarkisian's decision, but it was likely done under careful consideration. Perhaps it limits distractions for several new starters in key positions this season, particularly quarterback Arch Manning.

Many are looking forward to tuning in to the rematch of the College Football Playoff semifinal last season and tensions will be high among players on both sides. The Buckeyes got the best of the Longhorns, 28-14, and ultimately ended up winning the national championship.

Texas will have a chance to shock the reigning national champions on their home turf. While the Longhorns lost over a dozen impactful players from last season, the team returns several of the nation's top players in linebacker Anthony Hill, pass rusher Colin Simmons, safety Michael Taaffe and wide receiver Ryan Wingo among others.

Sarkisian and his staff also dipped into the transfer portal this offseason and landed several immediate impact players. Arguably the biggest of the group is former California tight end Jack Endris, who is ranked one of the top tight ends in the nation heading into the 2025 season. Texas desperately needed depth at the position following the departure of Gunnar Helm to the NFL.

We'll see if Texas can live up to the hype on Aug. 31.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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