ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit picks Texas for College Football Playoff after Big Ten return

Kirk Herbstreit still predicts Texas to appear in the College Football Playoff after the Big Ten officially joined the fold.

One particular ESPN College GameDay analyst has high expectations for Texas’ football program this season.

Kirk Herbstreit predicted what the College Football Playoff may look like after the Big Ten officially chose to return for the fall season. Texas, Ohio State, Clemson and Alabama were the four teams that Herbstreit believes will fight for the National Championship.

Before the Big Ten decided to move forward, Herbstreit’s original four selections were Alabama, Florida, Texas and Clemson.

Herbstreit does not have faith that the Longhorns would be able to get past Ohio State. However, t’s still telling that he views Texas as favorites to win the Big 12 over the highly ranked Oklahoma Sooners.

Texas dominated the UTEP Miners in their season opener by a score of 59-3. It was exactly what they should have done on paper, but it was still impressive nonetheless considering the lack offseason preparation due to COVID-19.

Quarterback Sam Ehlinger had a record-breaking first half by throwing for 426 yards and five touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich was able to spread the ball around at ease and Chris Ash’s new defensive scheme successfully put pressure on the opposing quarterback.

If Texas can remain consistent and defeat Oklahoma and Oklahoma State in conference play, there’s no doubt that the College Football Playoff committee would be calling their name.