Paul Finebaum projects the Longhorns to take one playoff route.
Over the last two years, the Texas Longhorns have been one of the most successful teams in college football. They have made the playoffs twice in that span and fell two wins short of a championship last year. While they lost many veteran pieces to the draft, they are expected to be in the mix for a championship in 2025.
They will be led by Arch Manning, who will take over as the starting quarterback. His offensive weapons will include Ryan Wingo and Jamie Ffrench. On defense, Texas will have talented veterans such as Colin Simmons and Michael Taffee to rely on. That is partly why analysts such as Paul Finebaum expect their playoff streak to continue.
Two teams may win nine games and still qualify for the playoffs, according to Paul Finebaum, who made this claim on Friday’s episode of the Paul Finebaum Show. Texas and Ohio State were the two teams.
“Take Ohio State or Texas,” Finebaum stated. “Both of those could get in with nine (wins) because they play each other to start the year.”
The Longhorns’ schedule in comparison
Texas would still need to drop two more games to make this scenario a reality even if they lose their opening match. So, what may have caused the losses?
One tough matchup is going to be the Georgia Bulldogs. Last year, the Bulldogs got the better of the Longhorns in their two matchups. That late-season matchup is also on the road when both teams will have a lot on the line. However, at least on paper, Texas has a better roster.
Other difficult contests include Texas A&M and Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl. In addition, the Longhorns will have to travel to play a talented Florida squad. The Longhorns will have a chance to win those games, but in college football, anything can happen.
Expectations for the preseason
Texas will be considered one of the top teams in the country going into the regular season. Although three defeats would not be ideal, their chances of making the playoffs would not definitely be eliminated. Young, up-and-coming players are eager to establish themselves, and this gifted bunch has a wealth of experience.
Winning a national title is one simple way to make up for losing three games, if Finebaum is right and the Longhorns qualify for the playoffs nevertheless.
