The 2024 Texas Longhorns football season marked a significant chapter in the program’s history, characterized by notable achievements, challenges, and a promising future. Under the leadership of head coach Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns transitioned into the Southeastern Conference (SEC), showcasing their readiness for the heightened competition.
Season Overview
The Longhorns concluded the season with a commendable 13–3 record, securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. Their journey included a victory in the Peach Bowl, where they triumphed over Arizona State 39–31, and a subsequent loss to Ohio State 28–14 in the Cotton Bowl, which ended their national championship aspirations. citeturn0search24
Offensive Performance
Quarterback Quinn Ewers delivered a standout performance throughout the season, throwing for 3,479 yards and 22 touchdowns. Despite facing injuries, Ewers’ leadership was instrumental in the team’s success. However, his performance in the semifinal against Ohio State was marred by a critical fumble returned for a touchdown, underscoring the fine margins in high-stakes games. citeturn0news14
The receiving corps, featuring talents like Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden, provided Ewers with reliable targets, contributing to the team’s high-scoring offense. The offensive line, anchored by veterans such as Jake Majors and Kelvin Banks, played a pivotal role in both the passing and running games, ensuring the offense operated efficiently.
Defensive Excellence
A standout feature of the 2024 Longhorns was their defense, which emerged as one of the nation’s best. The unit allowed only 92 total points in the first eight games, averaging 11.5 points per game, and earned a Pro Football Focus defensive grade of 94.6, the highest in the nation. citeturn0search0 Defensive linemen like Barryn Sorrell and Ethan Burke, along with defensive backs Jahdae Barron and Malik Muhammad, were instrumental in this defensive prowess.
Special Teams and Depth
Special teams, led by kicker Bert Auburn, provided stability and reliability throughout the season. The team’s depth across all positions allowed for effective rotations, maintaining high performance levels and mitigating the physical demands of the SEC schedule.
Challenges and Setbacks
Despite the overall success, the Longhorns faced challenges, particularly in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, where they fell short 19–22. This loss highlighted areas for improvement, including offensive execution under pressure and defensive adjustments against high-caliber opponents. citeturn0search24
Looking Ahead
The 2024 season has set a strong foundation for the Longhorns. The team’s performance in the SEC and their deep playoff run demonstrate their competitiveness on a national scale. With key players returning and a culture of excellence established, the Longhorns are poised for continued success in the coming seasons.
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