Photos provided by Texas
Texas
2024 Results: 13-3, 7-1(SEC)
2025 Projection: 10-2, 7-1 (SEC)
Overview:
Manning Madness is upon us. The name, the look, the number, it gets people talking and Arch has waited patiently to be the man in Austin. The Horns have been close to greatness with two straight CFP appearances and while they replace 14 starters from last year’s squad, they have recruited elite talent to reload instead of rebuilding. They open the season at the Horseshoe in a marquee matchup against defending champion, Ohio State, so we won’t have to wait long to see what they are made of. Is Arch going to live up to the hype? It’s time to find out.
Offense:
Manning is the starter after two years of studying behind Quinn Ewers. His skill set is more in tune with his grandfather, Archie, than his uncles, Peyton and Eli, as he is a legit dual-threat quarterback that can run the RPO system Steve Sarkisian implements for this Longhorns attack. He has established a repour with his offensive line and running backs and the receiver room is stacked with talent, so Manning will have what he needs to make this team special in 2025.
Defense:
Anthony Hill JR. May be the best linebacker in the country, and he will lead this defense into battle against the SEC’s finest. The secondary is strong with depth at corner and safety , while the pass rush will be bolstered by edge rusher Colin Simmons, so the Horns will aim to be a wrecking crew again on this side of the ball.
Special Teams:
There isn’t much to note on special teams, but the portal provides, and Texas will trot out former Utah punter Jack Bouwmeester and UTSA placekicker Mason Shipley to handle the kicking duties in 2025.
Final Thoughts:
If Arch is as advertised, lookout for the Horns in 2025. We won’t have to wait long to find out thanks to the showdown with Texas week 1, but trips to Gainesville and Athens should keep things interesting too. I will say it’s hard to imagine a 12-team playoff that doesn’t include Texas.
