Former Texas AD Steve Patterson says "I have agreed to step aside" in statement

"I have agreed to step aside effective today," former Texas athletic director Steve Patterson said in a statement addressing his "resignation" late Tuesday.

Former Texas AD Steve Patterson released a statement on his "resignation" pic.twitter.com/6nucXfEAH7

— Max Olson (@max_olson) September 15, 2015

The full text:

After considerable discussion, The University of Texas at Austin President, Gregory Fenves, and I have agreed that our great university will be best served by a new men's athletic director. Accordingly, I have agreed to step aside effective today. Change is never easy, but I have every confidence that UT Athletics will continue to thrive as it embraces the future. I want to thank President Fenves for the graciousness he has displayed throughout this process.

I am very proud of what we have accomplished in a relatively short period of time, including the historic addition of coaches in football and basketball, improvements to ticketing operations, facilities and other initiatives that will greatly benefit our Longhorn student-athletes and the many fans who care deeply about them. As a Longhorn myself, a graduate of the University and its law school, I want nothing but the best for my alma mater, and I wish President Fenves and everyone at UT-Austin well as we continue the journey. I leave behind a motivated and dedicated team committed to the world-class standards that all Longhorns expect.

I thank this team, our student athletes and the entire Longhorn family for having given me this opportunity to serve.

Hook 'em!

Sure sounds like a guy saving face, doesn't it?