Texas is not back, but it certainly has the best returning roster in the Big 12 from top to bottom. While starting quarterback Quinn Ewers is unproven, and could certainly nullify the roster advantage the Longhorns have, the team has a decided advantage in proven returning players.
Last season, the starting lineup for the Longhorns was among the least experienced in the league with several freshmen and sophomore players taking on significant roles. With veteran laden teams from last season losing NFL talent, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian returns the majority of his biggest contributors from last season.
If we were to rank the Top 10 players from last year’s team, Jaylan Ford, Kelvin Banks, Ja’Tavion Sanders, Xavier Worthy, Jahdae Barron, Ryan Watts, Jerrin Thompson, Barryn Sorrell, Christian Jones and Jordan Whittington would certainly be worth consideration with many in the group earning recognition.
The loss of NFL talent at TCU and at key positions at Kansas State and Oklahoma leave voids for all three teams to fill. For that reason, we give the Longhorns an edge to win.
Let’s look at the case for all nine of our Big 12 title contenders.