Texas has seemingly reshaped their entire coaching staff this offseason. According to athletic director Chris Del Conte, it’s head coach Tom Herman’s one chance to do so.
Herman must produce results this season in order to remain at Texas for the foreseeable future. Player development has been a primary issue over the last few years, even with highly-ranked recruiting classes.
There are high hopes surrounding the upcoming college football season with experienced quarterback Sam Ehlinger and new offensive and defensive coordinators.
Those who were often irritated with the conservative play-calling in the past should rejoice with the Mike Yurcich hire. The duo of Ehlinger and Yurcich should present an aggressive, air-raid offense that won’t take their foot off the gas pedal.
On the flip side, Chris Ash’s new defensive scheme should finally provide a chance for the Longhorns to disrupt the opposing quarterback. Joseph Ossai provided Texas fans with a glimpse of the future, sacking Utah quarterback Tyler Huntley three times in the Valero Alamo Bowl.
The changes in Austin have provided enough optimism for CBS Sports to put Texas in their preseason Top 25 poll. While the Longhorns are listed at No. 17, they’re still behind conference rival Oklahoma.
Though CBS reiterates the key departures of receivers Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson, fresh faces such as transfer receiver Tarik Black and the nation’s No. 1 running back Bijan Robinson will be joining the fold.
Wide receiver Brennan Eagles and linebacker Joseph Ossai could realistically have breakout seasons in 2020. Eagles is expected to take on a much larger role in the offense, while Ossai will finally be at the line of scrimmage rushing the passer.
The 12-20 range is realistic in terms of rankings for what this Texas team is capable of coming into the season, but it’s College Football Playoff or bust if you ask Longhorn Nation.