The 2024 Texas football team is on the cusp of greatness, with four wins separating them from an unprecedented achievement. Their journey begins with a home game against Clemson on December 21, followed by a potential showdown with Arizona State in the Peach Bowl on January
Case For: Quinn Ewers’ Resurgence and Dominant Defense
Quinn Ewers, the Longhorns’ quarterback, has faced a tumultuous season marred by injuries, inefficiency, and turnovers. However, he has shown signs of rebounding, with improved performances against formidable Georgia and Texas A&M defenses. Ewers’ resurgence could be the catalyst for a deep playoff run.
Texas boasts one of the nation’s most dominant and balanced defenses. The Longhorns’ defensive unit is stacked with elite talent, including:
Alfred Collins, the nation’s third-highest-graded nose tackle
Anthony Hill Jr., the SEC leader in tackles for loss
Jahdae Barron, a finalist for the Thorpe Award
The numbers support the talent, with Texas surrendering the fewest yards per play (4.0) and the second-fewest points per game (12.5) in college football.
Case Against: Turnover Issues and Vulnerability
Despite their impressive defense, Texas’ turnover issues make them vulnerable. The Longhorns have struggled with giveaways, which could prove costly against Clemson and Arizona State. While Texas has excelled at taking the ball away, their own turnover woes could undermine their championship aspirations.
In conclusion, the Texas Longhorns have a legitimate shot at immortality, with a dominant defense and a resurgent Quinn Ewers leading the charge. However, their turnover issues and vulnerability against top-tier opponents cannot be ignored. As the Longhorns embark on their playoff journey, they must address these concerns to achieve their championship goals.