The Texas Longhorns are set to start their season with a game against Ohio State on Aug. 30. They are starting the season as the number one-ranked team for the first time in franchise history. Mack Brown, who coached the Longhorns for 15 years, has faith in the team’s roster.
With Arch Manning taking over the starting quarterback duties, the Longhorns aren’t just the fan favorites; they’re being talked about the most in the media as well.
However, there’s more to the Longhorns this season than just the headline-worthy names. Brown believes that Colin Simmons, who boasts an NIL valuation of $1.5 million, can be the difference maker, especially against Ohio State.
The Buckeyes are the third-ranked team for the season. They are also among the favorites, but Ryan Day’s team will face a huge roadblock from Simmons, one that Brown believes they must be prepared for. On an episode of The Stampede, he said that Ohio State is a strong team.
“We’ve lost games because we knocked the first one out or they took him out cuz he was struggling, and then somebody else comes in, we didn’t think about much, and then here we are, relaxing and cool, thinking the game is over.” (40:55)
As for their biggest roadblock, Brown is excited about Colin Simmons’ approach this season.
“Colin Simmons said that. He said, ‘I don’t care who plays.’ And really, he shouldn’t. And he doesn’t. He’s gonna tackle them all anyway.” (41:32)
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Texas’ HC Steve Sarkisian on No.1 ranking ahead of Ohio State matchup
The Texas Longhorns have been on a dry spell in terms of national championships for the past two decades. Their last national championship victory was 20 years ago, in 2005. Since then, they have made some commendable efforts, but nothing has resulted in another trophy.
Since 1983, they’ve been the national finalists only twice, in 2005 and 2009. But it all could change this season, considering their strong roster and the number one ranking they’re starting with. However, it doesn’t carry much value in the eyes of Steve Sarkisian. As per AP News, he said:
“It’s irrelevant to the way the season is going to go. It’s irrelevant to the way we’re going to play. It’s irrelevant to how our opponents are going to play. Maybe it puts a little bigger bullseye on us for our opponents. But the reality is, we have to go do it.”
The highlight of the season for the Longhorns is going to be Arch Manning at the starting quarterback position. The newest football star from the celebrated Manning family is set to make his mark in the sport. If he leads his team to a trophy this year, that’ll solidify his place as one of the best players in the country.
Read More:
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