ESPN Says the Longhorns Are the Favorite to Win the National Championship: A Deep Dive into Texas Football’s 2024 Title Hopes
As the college football season ramps up in late 2024, ESPN has named the Texas Longhorns as the favorite to win the National Championship. This bold prediction comes as a result of Texas’ dominant play in the regular season, an impressive roster, and a coaching staff that has rejuvenated the program to its former glory. But what makes Texas the team to beat this season? How did they get here, and what challenges remain for the Longhorns as they chase the elusive championship? This article delves into the reasons behind ESPN’s prediction and examines the factors that contribute to Texas being the top contender in college football this year.
A Resurgent Program: The Texas Longhorns’ Journey Back to the Top
The Texas Longhorns’ football program has historically been one of the most successful in NCAA history. With four national championships (1963, 1969, 1970, and 2005), Texas boasts a rich tradition of success and a passionate fanbase. However, over the past decade, the Longhorns have struggled to reclaim their elite status, with inconsistent performances, coaching changes, and high expectations. For years, the program had been searching for its next breakthrough—something that could spark a return to national relevance.
In 2021, Texas made a crucial hire, bringing in Steve Sarkisian as head coach. Sarkisian, who had enjoyed success as an offensive coordinator at Alabama, was tasked with returning the program to national prominence. His tenure has been marked by flashes of brilliance, including an explosive offense and the development of standout players. The 2024 season represents a culmination of Sarkisian’s efforts, as his system seems to have fully taken root, and Texas is now firing on all cylinders.
Key Players Leading the Charge
The reason ESPN views Texas as the favorite to win the National Championship is largely due to the talent on the field. While many factors contribute to a successful team, the leadership and skill of key players often separate the contenders from the pretenders. For Texas, the standout players who have propelled the team to the top of the rankings include:
Quinn Ewers – The Future of Texas Quarterback Play
Perhaps the most significant reason for Texas’ rise in 2024 is the play of quarterback Quinn Ewers. After a highly touted recruitment and a promising but inconsistent 2022 season, Ewers has come into his own in 2024. Ewers possesses elite arm strength and the ability to make all the throws required at the college level. His improved decision-making and maturation as a leader have elevated Texas’ offense to new heights.
With a slew of talented receivers and a balanced offensive scheme, Ewers has demonstrated the ability to put the ball in tight windows, stretch defenses, and maintain control of the game. His leadership is a huge asset, and with his development, the Longhorns have one of the best quarterbacks in college football, a critical factor in their national title hopes.
Bijan Robinson’s Successor: Running Back Jonathon Brooks
While the Longhorns’ offense was built around the now NFL-bound Bijan Robinson in 2023, the emergence of Jonathon Brooks as the team’s primary running back in 2024 has ensured that Texas’ ground game remains dominant. Brooks is not only a capable rusher between the tackles, but he is also a threat in the passing game. His vision, burst, and ability to break tackles make him one of the most feared backs in the nation, and his production helps balance the offense, giving Ewers the freedom to operate efficiently.
A Stout Defense Led by Jalen Ford
Defensive consistency is key to any championship contender, and Texas boasts one of the most formidable defenses in college football. Jalen Ford, a senior linebacker, is the anchor of the defense. Ford is an incredibly versatile player, excelling in both run-stopping and pass coverage. His ability to read plays and deliver big hits makes him a standout on the field. Paired with a talented secondary and defensive line, Texas’ defense has become one of the stingiest in the country.
The defensive line, led by standout players like Byron Murphy and Ethan Burke, is capable of generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks while shutting down running lanes. In big games, a defense like Texas’ will be crucial in limiting high-powered offenses, a factor that makes them a favorite in a high-stakes postseason.
Texas’ Dominant 2024 Season So Far
ESPN’s prediction that the Longhorns are the favorites for the National Championship is also backed by their dominance during the 2024 season. As of mid-December, Texas boasts an undefeated record and has defeated several top-tier teams, including their rivals in the Big 12 and non-conference matchups. Key victories have included wins over strong teams such as Oklahoma, Alabama, and Kansas State, showcasing their ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
In these games, Texas has shown it can win in a variety of ways. Whether it’s a dominant offensive performance, a gritty defensive battle, or a close game decided by key special teams plays, the Longhorns have proven themselves capable of handling adversity. This kind of resilience is crucial for a team with championship aspirations, and it gives fans and analysts alike confidence in their ability to go all the way.
Coaching and Staff: Steve Sarkisian’s Vision
A key element of Texas’ success under Steve Sarkisian has been his ability to build a program that works within his vision and adapt to the evolving landscape of college football. Sarkisian is known for his offensive genius, and while Texas’ offense has been explosive, his ability to build a balanced team—one that is as strong on defense as it is on offense—has set the Longhorns apart from many of their competitors.
The Longhorns’ coaching staff has played a huge role in developing not just the team’s X’s and O’s, but also fostering a winning culture. Texas has cultivated a mentality of toughness, discipline, and accountability. This culture is evident in the way the players execute their assignments and handle the pressure of national championship aspirations.
Challenges Ahead: The Road to the National Championship
While Texas stands as the favorite to win the national title, the road ahead is anything but easy. The Longhorns still face formidable opponents in the College Football Playoff (CFP), with teams such as Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State all boasting top-tier rosters and championship pedigree. The competition for the national title will be fierce, and Texas must remain focused to overcome the challenges that await them.
One of the most significant challenges will be navigating the high-pressure environment of the CFP and possibly the national championship game itself. The Longhorns have the talent, but championship teams often need a bit of luck, timely plays, and clutch performances in critical moments. Texas must avoid injuries, manage the mental grind of a playoff run, and continue to execute at a high level to fulfill their potential.
The Longhorns’ Legacy: A Program on the Rise
If Texas does manage to win the National Championship in 2024, it will mark the culmination of years of effort and rebuilding. The victory would solidify the Longhorns’ return to college football’s elite and reaffirm Steve Sarkisian’s status as one of the brightest coaches in the game. It would also be a massive boost to the recruiting efforts of Texas, helping them continue to attract top-tier talent to the program.
For the fans of Texas football, a national championship would not only validate the work done over the past several years but would also restore a sense of pride and tradition to one of college football’s most storied programs. A title would prove that Texas is back, and the Longhorns could once again claim their place among the elite teams of college football.
