Texas, Oklahoma and Texas A&M could all be good at the same time according to one college football writer. 247Sports’ Raymond Lucas Jr. listed each team among his eight breakout candidates for the 2023 season.
It’s usually rare that all three teams would play quality football in the same season. When two succeed, the other is likely to have a down year. The 2023 season is a rare occasion in which it’s possible, if not likely, that each team reaches eight-or-more wins.
Texas has the most proven roster of the three as they return a particularly strong and high floor offensive line, tight end, receiver room and secondary. They also return one of the best linebackers in the country in Jaylan Ford.
Oklahoma retooled its roster significantly over the offseason with several impact additions. While the team is still lean at defensive tackle, cornerback, offensive line and wide receiver, they should be able to out-talent their schedule on a consistent basis. The Sooners will be especially dominant if their starters can stay healthy.
Texas A&M has perhaps the most impactful quarterback of the three in Conner Weigman. That he was able to excel in head coach Jimbo Fisher’s quarterback-unfriendly offense speaks to his impact for the team. The new offensive system should bring more success for Weigman in 2023.
Here’s a look at Lucas’ rationale for his breakout selections.