The Texas Longhorns are starting about where they should in the first USA TODAY Coaches Poll of the 2023 season. The team moves into the No. 12 slot to start the year.
The ranking seems reasonable considering what the team returns. Based on the roster, if Texas had a track record of proven on-field play they would probably rank higher. The most logical designation would put the Longhorns around the No. 11 or 12 spot.
Other notable rankings included several scheduled opponents for the team. The list of Coaches Poll ranked foes includes No. 3 Alabama, No. 16 TCU, No. 17 Kansas State, No. 19 Oklahoma and No. 24 Texas Tech.
The above rankings show greater respect for the Big 12 than in recent seasons. With Texas, the league has four Top 20 teams with Texas Tech not far behind.
Here’s a look at our thoughts on the rankings.