Akers received criticism from those who believed he failed to match the standard set by previous head coach Darrell Royal. Twice in his tenure was the team undefeated and ranked in the top 2 of the AP Poll and twice they lost in the ensuing bowl game.
Akers faced criticism from those who felt he did not meet the standards set by his predecessor, Darrell Royal. Twice during his tenure, the team achieved an undefeated record and ranked in the top two of the AP Poll, but they lost in subsequent bowl games.