The hype surrounding the Texas football program is oftentimes confusing.
They’re either projected to compete for a spot in the college football playoffs, or they’re expected to fall flat and lose at least four games. According to Sportline’s early simulations of the Top 25 teams, it’s the latter for the Longhorns.
When dissecting every nationally-ranked team’s projected win total, No. 14 Texas is listed at 8.1 wins in 2020, the same projection as the Auburn Tigers.
“Two teams capable of competing for conference titles in their respective leagues this season, the Longhorns and Tigers aren’t quite there yet according to Sportsline’s early simulations. Both face a Top 20 opponent in the non-conference and each team will have to play a Top 10 on the road this fall. The good news? Quarterback play could be stellar. Texas brings back multi-year starter and Heisman candidate Sam Ehlinger while the Tigers expect a breakout year from rising sophomore and former five-star Bo Nix.”
Although head coach Tom Herman hasn’t shown consistency the past several years, the talent on the roster is clearly evident. Texas losing at least four games this season seems quite unrealistic. However, they’ll be tested early on by traveling to Baton Rouge to face a tough LSU team.
It appears to be a four-team race for the Big 12 title this year with Oklahoma, Texas, Oklahoma State and Iowa State. If the Longhorns can squeak into the Big 12 Championship game, that likely means they’ve suffered just one or two losses.
Regardless, their goals are set much higher in reaching the college football playoffs. Senior quarterback Sam Ehlinger is expected to garner Heisman trophy hype, while the nation’s top rated running back joins the fold. If defensive coordinator Chris Ash’s new scheme can improve the lackluster defense, Texas should finally get over the hump this season.