Coming into the game, there were plenty of rumblings about Strong’s job. Many people were clamoring for a change immediately. Others said that the RRS was a must-win for Strong to keep his job. Other reports said that no matter what he did, Strong was a lame-duck coach on his way out when the season ended.
Strong responded by demoting defensive coordinator Vance Bedford and assuming defensive playcalling responsibilities. The Longhorns defense had been atrocious in back-to-back losses against Cal and Oklahoma State. So Strong stepping in take full control appeared to be a move in the right direction.