At the halfway point of the 2024 college football season, the Texas Longhorns find themselves in prime position, boasting a 5-0 record (1-0 SEC). Head coach Steve Sarkisian has guided the team to an impressive start, combining a balanced offensive attack with a disciplined, opportunistic defense. The Longhorns have not only dominated their non-conference opponents but have also shown resilience in key matchups, solidifying their position as a legitimate contender in the SEC and for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Season Overview
Texas opened the season with a bang, shutting out Colorado State in a 52-0 victory, followed by a crucial road win against then-No. 10 Michigan, 31-12. The team’s offense has been a powerhouse, averaging 45 points per game, while the defense has been stifling, allowing just seven points per contest. The Longhorns have outscored opponents 225-35 and have been particularly effective in both the red zone and on third downs.
The offensive unit, led by quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning, has been unstoppable, averaging 513.6 yards per game. Manning, the standout sophomore, has been efficient and explosive, throwing for 901 yards with nine touchdowns. Ewers has also contributed with 691 passing yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing the depth of talent in the Texas backfield.
On the ground, Jaydon Blue leads the charge with 239 rushing yards and four touchdowns, while freshman Jerrick Gibson has added 226 yards and three scores. The receiving corps, headlined by Isaiah Bond (364 yards, three touchdowns) and Matthew Golden (223 yards, three touchdowns), has been equally formidable.
Offensive Breakthroughs
The Texas offense has been firing on all cylinders. Manning’s dual-threat ability has kept defenses on their heels, while Ewers’ precision passing has opened up the field for the Longhorns’ playmakers. Together, the duo has thrown for 1,611 yards and 17 touchdowns, with a combined completion percentage of 71.4%.
Isaiah Bond has been the go-to receiver, averaging 18.2 yards per catch, and has a season-long reception of 56 yards. Golden, Gunnar Helm, and Ryan Wingo have also provided reliable targets, contributing to a balanced passing attack that has been nearly impossible to defend.
The rushing attack, anchored by Blue and Gibson, has been efficient, averaging 191.4 yards per game. The offensive line has done an excellent job creating lanes for the backs while protecting the quarterbacks, allowing only five sacks through the first five games.
Defensive Dominance
Texas’ defense has been equally impressive, holding opponents to just 228.2 total yards per game. The unit has been particularly stingy in the red zone, allowing opponents to score on only 67% of their red-zone trips, with just one touchdown given up in six opportunities.
Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. has been a standout performer, leading the team with 31 tackles, including 5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. Hill’s leadership and ability to make plays all over the field have been critical to Texas’ success. Colin Simmons has also been a force on the defensive line, recording 4 sacks and 6 tackles for loss.
The secondary has been opportunistic, with seven interceptions through five games. Defensive back Andrew Mukuba and linebacker Anthony Hill have each contributed a pick, while Ethan Burke’s interception against UTSA resulted in a 30-yard touchdown, adding to Texas’ points off turnovers.
Special Teams and Red Zone Efficiency
Special teams have been a solid complement to Texas’ overall performance. Punter Michael Kern has averaged 41.1 yards per punt, while kicker Bert Auburn has been reliable, converting 31 of 31 extra-point attempts and going 2-for-3 on field goals, with a long of 45 yards.
The Longhorns have excelled in the red zone, scoring on 93% of their trips. They have scored 24 touchdowns (11 rushing, 13 passing) out of 27 red-zone attempts, demonstrating their ability to finish drives with points.
Key Games Recap
Texas vs. Michigan (31-12)
This early-season road victory solidified Texas as a top contender. The Longhorns’ defense stifled Michigan, forcing two turnovers and holding the Wolverines to just 80 rushing yards. Manning threw for 246 yards and three touchdowns, while Jaydon Blue added a rushing score to lead the team to a dominant win.
Texas vs. UTSA (56-7)
In this offensive explosion, Texas racked up 614 total yards, including 427 through the air. Manning threw for 324 yards and four touchdowns, while Isaiah Bond had a breakout game with 127 receiving yards and a touchdown. The defense also shined, holding UTSA to just 260 total yards.
Texas vs. Mississippi State (35-13)
In their SEC opener, the Longhorns showcased their balanced attack. Manning threw for 325 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense recorded six sacks and forced two turnovers. Jaydon Blue added two rushing touchdowns to seal the victory.
Areas for Improvement
Despite their success, Texas has room for growth. The offensive line, while strong, has allowed five sacks, and the team could improve in third-down situations, where they have converted 53% of attempts. Defensively, while the secondary has been effective, the Longhorns will face stiffer tests in the coming weeks as they navigate a tough SEC schedule.
Looking Ahead
Texas faces crucial upcoming matchups against SEC foes, including Oklahoma and LSU. These games will be pivotal in determining the Longhorns’ path to a potential College Football Playoff appearance. With a balanced offense, a disciplined defense, and the leadership of Manning and Ewers, Texas has all the tools necessary to make a deep run in the postseason.
In conclusion, Texas’ 5-0 start has been nothing short of impressive. The Longhorns have demonstrated they are a force to be reckoned with in the SEC, and with continued improvement, they could be on the cusp of a special season.
