Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian shared a promising injury update for wide receiver Isaiah Bond ahead of the highly anticipated clash with No. 5 Georgia. Speaking to the media on Thursday, Sarkisian expressed optimism regarding Bond’s availability, suggesting that the speedy receiver would likely be upgraded from questionable to probable. “I would imagine tonight, we’ll upgrade Isaiah to probable for the game,” Sarkisian stated.
Bond had been listed as questionable following an ankle injury sustained during last Saturday’s victory over Oklahoma, where he was tackled awkwardly in the Cotton Bowl. However, reassurance came from Bond’s agent, who took to social media to confirm that the injury was not significant. Bond has been a crucial component of Texas’s offense, tied for the team lead with 21 receptions for 369 yards and three touchdowns. His speed and big-play ability make him a key target for quarterback Quinn Ewers, who will need all available weapons against a tough Georgia defense.
On the special teams front, Sarkisian also provided a positive outlook for freshman punter Michael Kern, who is expected to resume his duties against the Bulldogs. Kern sat out last week’s game, which saw backup punter Ian Ratliff step in and perform admirably, averaging 44.3 yards per punt across three attempts despite some early protection issues. “I thought he did a heck of a job first time out,” Sarkisian said, adding that the experience Ratliff gained was valuable. “We’re fortunate that Ian actually got some experience and feel good about where Michael’s at as well.”
As game day approaches, Sarkisian also took the opportunity to energize the Longhorns’ fan base, emphasizing the need for a raucous atmosphere at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. He highlighted the crucial role that the home crowd can play in making life difficult for the visiting Bulldogs. “In my time here, through four years, DKR has created an environment that has become intimidating, that has become loud,” Sarkisian said. “Our students do a fantastic job. But I think in this game, especially, we need more than our students. We need everybody in this ball game. It should be a rocking environment. We need to make it as difficult as we can on Georgia, and I think our fans can do that.”
Reflecting on past electric atmospheres, Sarkisian pointed to games like the 2022 showdown against Alabama and last season’s Kansas State clash as examples of the noise level that Texas needs to replicate. “My goal is that it’s that loud for four quarters Saturday night,” he emphasized, rallying the Longhorn faithful for a complete game of unwavering support.
With the stakes sky-high in a top-five matchup, Bond’s likely return and Kern’s anticipated comeback could provide the Longhorns with a much-needed lift. The atmosphere in Austin is set to play a pivotal role as Texas looks to capitalize on home-field advantage and make a statement against one of the nation’s elite teams.
