Kevin Sherrington: The Texas Longhorns’ Path to a National Title Is Clear, Even Without First- Bye
For the first time in a decade, the Texas Longhorns are squarely in the national championship conversation. After securing a spot in the College Football Playoff, the Longhorns’ path to glory is clear—albeit more challenging—without the benefit of a first-round bye. But given what we’ve seen this season, Texas is well-positioned to seize its opportunity.
Texas capped its season with a statement victory in the Big 12 Championship, dismantling Oklahoma State 49-21. That performance reaffirmed what we’ve come to suspect: this Longhorns team has the talent, depth, and coaching acumen to compete with the best. It also avenged the program’s struggles in past years, where hype often outweighed results.
Steve Sarkisian’s squad enters the playoff as the No. 3 seed, narrowly missing out on a first-round bye. However, the Longhorns are no strangers to proving themselves. They’ve already shown they can win on the big stage, most notably with a road victory over Alabama in Tuscaloosa—a win that resonates even more now as the Crimson Tide also secured a playoff berth.
What sets Texas apart in this playoff field is its balance. Quarterback Quinn Ewers has matured into a reliable leader, boasting a strong arm and poise under pressure. With playmakers like Xavier Worthy and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders in the passing game, coupled with a steady ground attack led by Jonathon Brooks (when healthy) and CJ Baxter, the offense is explosive and versatile.
Defensively, Texas has consistently imposed its will. The defensive line, anchored by T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy II, is among the best in the country at stopping the run. The secondary, while occasionally tested, has risen to the occasion in key moments. It’s a complete team, one that doesn’t rely on any single player to carry the load.
Without a first-round bye, Texas faces an additional hurdle in its title pursuit. The Longhorns must play three games to win it all instead of two, starting with a semifinal matchup against the No. 2 seed. While this might seem like a disadvantage, it could also play to Texas’ benefit.
For one, Texas thrives under pressure. Their most impressive performances this season came in high-stakes games, whether it was toppling Alabama on the road or dominating the Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma. A semifinal showdown is just another opportunity for the Longhorns to prove they belong.
Additionally, the lack of a bye means Texas stays in rhythm. Extended breaks can sometimes disrupt a team’s momentum, particularly one firing on all cylinders like the Longhorns are now. A steady schedule could keep them sha
If Texas plays to its pote byntial, there’s no reason they can’t emerge as champions. The playoff field is formidable, featuring powerhouses like Michigan, Alabama, and Washington, but none of those teams are without flaws.
Michigan relies heavily on its run game and defense, which Texas can neutralize with its front seven. Washington boasts an explosive passing attack, but Texas has shown it can adapt against high-octane offenses. Alabama, while surging, already knows what it’s like to fall to this Longhorns team.
Sarkisian’s familiarity with the playoff format—thanks to his time at Alabama—also provides a crucial edge. He knows how to prepare a team for this stage and keep them focused amid the noise.
The Texas Longhorns haven’t won a national title since Vince Young’s heroics in the 2006 Rose Bowl. But for the first time since that iconic moment, the pieces are in place for another championship run.
Even without a first-round bye, the Longhorns have the talent, confidence, and determination to navigate their path to glory. All they need now is to keep doing what they’ve done all season: rise to the occasion.
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