The 2023 college football season is one that Texas fans are hoping will live up to expectations.
While this feels like a familiar song and dance, it isn’t just Texas fans that are high on the Longhorns. Texas was picked to win the Big 12, and there have been growing expectations that they can even make a playoff push. A goal that 247Sports‘ Brad Crawford believes will come down to their defense.
When updating the projected win totals for the top 25 teams in 2023, BetMGM kept the Longhorns at 9.5, citing that we need to see on-field proof before expecting anything beyond that mark. He also brought up the fact that he has concerns about their defense, but if they are able to deliver Texas can go far.
Feel outstanding about taking the over here if the Longhorns beat Alabama on the road in Week 2. That’s what’s called a “show us” game for Steve Sarkisian and this loaded roster. If Quinn Ewers takes the next step at quarterback, his numbers should help an offense that welcomes back a litany of playmakers. Those blocking for him are some of the most talented players in the Big 12. It’s the defense that could make or break Texas as a legitimate title contender.
Texas and the phrase “title contender” haven’t been said seriously since 2009, so to think that this could finally be the year Texas returns to that level would be huge for the program. Not only would it help boost their already elite brand, but it’d provide a tremendous boost of confidence as they head into the SEC.
Texas ranked as the No. 54 defense in the country this past season. The Longhorns are hoping that their transfer additions will help make up for some losses in the secondary and across the line.