I think it is now clear that the NFL style program that Sark has sought to implement is a massive failure. NFL players are grown men who have made it through the college ranks as elite players, and with small roster sizes most players have to scratch and claw to obtain and maintain their roster spot. They have the maturity and professionalism to handle a professional mindset.
Sark has said to anyone who will listen that Texas was going to pace themselves to prepare for a 16 game season. Implicit in that is that Texas will, naturally of course - by virtue of how highly ranked and outlandishly talented the players are - make the playoff. The regular season is for preparing to peak in the post season. They ditched the spring game. They eased up on fall camp. They've been less physical in practice. Sark openly talks about wanting to avoid running the team down, wanting to avoid injuries. There is some wisdom in that, but wherever the ideal balance is, Texas is far away from that.
That works in the NFL with professionals. We're learning that doesn't work with college players. It creates a soft culture. Players who aren't finished products but act like they are.
There were a handful of players who left it all on the field Saturday. The majority were largely indifferent. Attitude reflects leadership. This is a self inflicted lost year. I hope adjustments are made and the program gets back to acting like wins are earned and not assumed.