Texas football is making a significant change to its defense, with Head Coach Steve Sarkisian deciding to overhaul the coaching staff. The Texas Football Defense will look different under new leadership following the firing of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski and passing game coordinator Duane Akina. This move comes after the team’s 9-3 regular season finish and their subsequent miss of the College Football Playoff, signaling a decisive step in Sarkisian’s plan for the Longhorns. This is major Texas news and a key development in college football coaching.
Longhorns Defense Shakeup Announced
Sarkisian announced the changes on December 18, 2025. Kwiatkowski had led the defense for five seasons, and Akina had been on staff for one year. The Longhorns’ defense showed struggles late in the season, a performance that likely prompted the decision to seek new defensive leadership. The team surrendered 30 points or more in four straight games, a defensive backslide that was a key concern despite high expectations for the unit. This marks a significant moment for the Texas Football Defense.
Will Muschamp Returns to Austin for Texas Football Defense
Replacing Kwiatkowski is Will Muschamp, a familiar face to Longhorns fans and a coach with extensive experience leading the Texas Football Defense. Muschamp previously served as Texas’s defensive coordinator from 2008 to 2010, even being named the “head coach in waiting” during that tenure. Muschamp later became a head coach himself, leading Florida and South Carolina, and has extensive SEC experience. Most recently, Muschamp worked at Georgia, serving as a defensive analyst and holding co-defensive coordinator roles, where the team achieved great success, including two national championships. Muschamp is known for his intense defensive style and aims for relentless play, a philosophy he will now bring back to the Texas Football Defense.
Reasons for the Texas Football Defense Change
The Texas defense faced significant scrutiny late in the 2025 season. The team missed crucial opportunities and failed to secure a College Football Playoff spot. Pass defense was identified as a particular weakness. In one late stretch, they allowed over 30 points frequently, a trend that proved detrimental. The defense struggled to consistently stop opponents, impacting their overall standing. Consequently, Sarkisian sought new leadership to elevate the Texas Football Defense.
Sarkisian’s Vision for the Texas Football Defense
Sarkisian expressed his confidence in Muschamp, calling him a “tremendous defensive coach” and noting his “relentless” defenses. “We just felt it was best for our program to move in a different direction,” Sarkisian stated. He believes Muschamp provides the needed leadership and aims to take the Texas Football Defense “to another level.” Muschamp’s return signals an aggressive approach and is seen by top analysts as a move for higher ambitions, potentially impacting the 2026 season significantly. This strategic shift is central to the evolution of the Steve Sarkisian defense.
Kwiatkowski’s Tenure and Departure from Texas Football Defense
Pete Kwiatkowski joined Texas in January 2021, spending five seasons coordinating the defense. During his tenure, the Longhorns saw some defensive improvements, and Kwiatkowski was even a Broyles Award finalist. However, late-season defensive collapses marked his final year, leading to his unexpected dismissal. This move highlights Sarkisian’s focus on results for the Texas Football Defense.
A New Era for the Texas Football Defense
This coaching change marks a new chapter for the Texas Football Defense. Will Muschamp brings a wealth of experience, and his history with Texas football is deep. He led strong defenses in his first stint, even reaching the BCS National Championship game. Sarkisian is betting on Muschamp’s expertise to bring renewed defensive dominance to the Texas Football Defense. This is a critical trending news item for the program as the Longhorns aim for continued success and prepare for the upcoming season. This move signals a strong intent and is a significant decision for Texas football, with the focus remaining on reaching elite status. Fans will watch for the impact of these defensive coordinator news and the overall Steve Sarkisian defense.
Coaching Staff Realignment and the Texas Football Defense
Duane Akina also departed the staff, having returned for the 2025 season as passing game coordinator. Sarkisian thanked both coaches for their efforts and contributions to the program, but emphasized the need for a new direction. Muschamp’s return is a homecoming, and his past success at Texas is well-documented. The team is eager to integrate his philosophy, which could redefine the Longhorns’ defense and the overall Texas Football Defense. It’s a bold step for Sarkisian’s program as the Texas program looks to rebuild its defensive identity.
Looking Ahead for the Texas Football Defense
The hiring of Will Muschamp is a major event, signaling a shift in defensive strategy for the Texas Football Defense. Texas aims to contend for championships, and Muschamp’s proven track record with intense defenses is key. Sarkisian believes this is the right move to address recent performance issues. The trending news surrounding this change is significant as the team prepares for the next season. This could be a pivotal moment for the Longhorns seeking peak performance. This coaching move is a major storyline and a top development in college football, reflecting Texas’s high expectations. The coaching staff is now set, and the future of the Texas Football Defense is in Muschamp’s hands. This is crucial news for the program, as he brings SEC-tested leadership. The Texas Football Defense aims for a strong rebound, making it a top priority. This trending news captures attention and highlights the importance of the Longhorns defense changes.
