The 2025 TV upfront presentations in New York highlighted how traditional media companies are adjusting to major shifts in how people consume content. Entertainment giants like Netflix and Disney were part of the annual event, with the latter focusing heavily on sports.
But one of the event’s biggest surprises came when Texas Longhorns HC Steve Sarkisian took center stage alongside ESPN’s Laura Rutledge.
Steve Sarkisian Steps Into the Spotlight With ESPN Star
The Disney Upfront 2025 turned heads with a heavy focus on live sports programming, reinforcing ESPN’s strong hold on college football coverage.
One of their biggest competitors in the media and streaming space, Netflix, also made headlines with its upcoming content. While Netflix kept its event intimate, hosting around 500 people at the Perelman Performing Arts Center, Disney leaned heavily into live sports, particularly college football.
This focus on college sports is why Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas Longhorns, was invited on stage alongside Laura Rutledge from ESPN. Not to mention, this wasn’t just a big moment for the college football community; it was also a major milestone for the Longhorns themselves.
They didn’t wait long to share the proud moment following the event, posting a photo of their head coach with Laura Rutledge on their Instagram account.
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In the caption, they wrote, “Center stage at #DisneyUpfront 🤘,” and it felt like a celebration for the Longhorns community.
Before joining Texas, Steve Sarkisian coached at Washington, USC, and Alabama, where he served as offensive coordinator for Nick Saban’s championship-winning team.
Now entering his fifth year as the Longhorns’ head coach, Sarkisian has already proven his potential by building a championship-caliber roster, leading Texas to a 13-3 record last season.
This year, things might be a little different. We’re not only in the Sarkisian era but also about to enter the Arch Manning era in Texas. The young quarterback is stepping into the starting role, and many believe he could be a Heisman contender.
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With excitement running high, the team’s presence at major events like the 2025 Disney Upfront is further proof that Texas has not only solidified itself as a football powerhouse but has also gained momentum both on and off the field. Now, all that’s left is the wait for a national championship.
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