Three years ago, Jay Hartzell and Joe Harroz, Presidents of The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Oklahoma, respectively, made a bold and transformative decision by reaching out to Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey.
That pivotal moment marked the beginning of an ambitious journey, fueled by countless hours of meetings, phone calls, and meticulous planning. Their mission was clear: to elevate their student-athletes and demonstrate that their universities truly “mean more.”
Texas opened its chapter in the Big 12 with a championship legacy, and fittingly, they closed it in iconic Longhorn fashion—dominating the competition, claiming the Big 12 Championship, and securing a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff.
Had to get the hair right 💈😂
We're celebrating the @TexasLonghorns joining the @SEC tonight at 6 ET!@PeterBurnsESPN | @d_aavviidd pic.twitter.com/ohlvsZoIi6
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) June 30, 2024
As the Texas Longhorns approach the culmination of their inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), they find themselves at the forefront of the standings, defying early skepticism. Notably, former Alabama head coach Nick Saban remarked during SEC Media Days, “They aren’t gonna run the SEC.”
Nick Saban – “Texas ain’t gonna run the SEC.”
pic.twitter.com/dWMVPz6pxp— Dallas Texas TV (@DallasTexasTV) July 15, 2024
Despite such critiques, Texas has demonstrated resilience and excellence on the field. With two games remaining, the Longhorns are poised for another impressive 11-1 season. ESPN Analytics projects victories over six SEC opponents, with the sole projected loss to Georgia. Significantly, Texas secured a win against Alabama in 2023, when Saban was still at the helm.
Texas has had a successful transition into the SEC, challenging initial doubts and establishing themselves as title contenders in their new conference.
I’m a huge fan of analytics, I love them when they are right, and love them when they are wrong. The Texas Longhorns’ 30-15 loss to Georgia at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium was a pivotal moment in their season. Despite being favored by ESPN analytics, Texas faced a formidable Georgia defense that recorded seven sacks and forced four turnovers.
Head Coach Steve Sarkisian acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, “Unfortunately we didn’t play our best football tonight. But we were still competitive. Hopefully we get another crack at them.” This suggests that the loss served as a wake-up call, emphasizing the need for consistent focus and preparation. Quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning, along with the entire team, have likely to internalized this lesson. Recognizing that each game and opponent presents unique challenges. I think the team has humility and a commitment to improvement, Texas can use this experience to strengthen their resolve for the remainder of the season.
The Texas Longhorns welcome the Kentucky Wildcats to Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in what is expected to be a one-sided affair. ESPN Analytics projects a 94.7% chance of victory for the Longhorns, setting the stage for what could mirror their dominant performance against Florida earlier this season.
While Kentucky will likely come in motivated to challenge Texas, the Longhorns’ offensive and defensive lines are expected to control the game early. A decisive lead could see starting quarterback Quinn Ewers rested by the second or third quarter, paving the way for Arch Manning to take snaps and potentially giving third-string quarterback Trey Owens a chance to close out the game. The predicted final score hovers around 35-10, with the game likely decided by halftime.
Texas fans might see a rare blemish in the form of two interceptions from Ewers, with one potentially setting up a Kentucky scoring opportunity. Still, the Longhorns are positioned to handle the Wildcats with ease, continuing their march toward a successful season.
While many students at the University of Texas will head home for Thanksgiving Break, it’s all business for the Longhorns as they gear up for a critical rivalry matchup against Texas A&M at Kyle Field. With the stakes high and momentum on their side, Texas looks poised to make a statement.
My prediction? Texas wins out, including a decisive victory over the Aggies. The Longhorns have shown resilience throughout the season, learning from matchups against Arkansas, Kentucky, and even Georgia. Head coach Steve Sarkisian will likely treat this game with the same preparation intensity as last year’s road win at Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium, a similarly hostile and passionate environment.
Kyle Field promises to be electric, but Texas fans are expected to travel well, creating a sea of burnt orange that may exceed critics’ expectations. Both programs boast dedicated fan bases willing to spend top dollar for tickets, ensuring a loud and vibrant crowd.
Quarterback Quinn Ewers, aware of his NFL aspirations, will need to deliver a sharp performance despite the pressure. While I anticipate a few missteps—possibly one interception—Ewers should capitalize on opportunities and lead the offense effectively. On the other side, the Longhorn defensive line will likely shut down A&M’s ground game, forcing quarterback Conner Weigman into difficult situations. Under the pressure, Weigman may commit multiple turnovers as Texas’s defense dominates.
Final score? Texas 40, Texas A&M 14. While the game might stay competitive early, the Longhorns’ depth and momentum will ultimately overwhelm the Aggies.
When Steve Sarkisian accepted the head coaching position at Texas, he was well aware of the pivotal matchups that lay ahead. Victories over powerhouses like Alabama and Georgia have underscored the program’s resurgence. University President Jay Hartzell, Athletic Director Chris Del Conte, and Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife were deliberate in their selection of Sarkisian, aiming to restore the Longhorns to national prominence.
The Texas power trio, from left: AD Chris Del Conte, board of regents chair Kevin Eltife and president Jay Hartzell.
They are at a scholarship dinner for the Tyler-Smith County chapter of the Texas Exes. Eltife is receiving an award. pic.twitter.com/9nc7EUIbqr
— Sam Khan Jr. (@skhanjr) July 29, 2021
However, the upcoming rivalry game with Texas A&M carries a unique weight. The renewal of this storied rivalry, dormant since 2011, adds layers of significance beyond the typical high-stakes game. The anticipation surrounding this matchup is palpable, reflecting the deep-rooted history and passion that define the Lone Star Showdown.
It’s worth revisiting the wise words of Steve Sarkisian ahead of the Oklahoma game: pace yourselves. This advice rings true not just for the Longhorn faithful, but for Aggie fans as well.
Both programs will need their fans in full force—not just in the fourth quarter, but in the third, second, and even from the kickoff in the first. The energy and passion from the stands will set the tone for this historic rivalry, and every cheer, chant, and rally cry matters.
So, as we approach this monumental showdown, remember to bring your best—and save enough to keep the momentum going from start to finish. The players will give it everything they have, and they’ll need the 12th man and the Longhorn Nation to do the same. Pace yourselves.
As the Longhorns prepare to face the Aggies, the stakes are undeniably elevated. This game is more than a contest; it’s a rekindling of tradition and a testament to the program’s trajectory under Sarkisian’s leadership. In Texas, football is more than a sport—it embodies the spirit and pride of the state. This matchup exemplifies that sentiment, proving that, indeed, it Just Means More.
