With the start of the college football season less than a month away, analysts nationwide have started making their playoff predictions. That includes ESPN analyst Greg McElroy, who chose the Longhorns as one of his five locks to be in the College Football Playoff.
On August 7, McElroy said a team needs to go 10-2 to be in the big dance. The teams from the SEC that he thinks will accomplish that are Georgia, Texas, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M. While a lot can change as the regular season plays out, getting five teams in would be a significant accomplishment for the SEC.
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As the Longhorns look to prove McElroy right, they have a roster full of talent ready to build on a 12-win season. They will be led by quarterback Quinn Ewers and running back Jaydon Blue. Their list of offensive weapons includes Johntay Cook, Matthew Golden, Ryan Wingo, and Amari Niblack.
Although they will be in a tougher conference, it is a challenge the Longhorns are ready for. A new playoff format will also benefit Texas, giving them and teams nationwide a better shot at playing for a national championship.
On August 31, the Longhorns will open their season against Colorado State, giving them their first opportunity to show why they are a playoff team.