I May Be Biased, But Texas Isn't A #2 Team

As an avid Oklahoma Sooners fan, I confess to a certain bias. However, I can’t help but question the near-universal decision to rank Texas at #2 in the Top 25.

The Longhorns have yet to prove they can maintain a Top-5 position consistently. They’re certainly on an upward trajectory, but they haven’t quite reached that pinnacle. Since Mack Brown’s departure in 2013, they’ve not ranked higher than 3rd. Despite a strong roster this season, I’d argue it’s not as formidable as last year’s. Their inability to triumph over a PAC-12 team in the Semi-Finals further underscores this point.

Moreover, there are numerous coaches leading top teams who could outmaneuver Steve Sarkisian. Sarkisian, despite having a talented roster thanks to NIL, hasn’t yet demonstrated he’s a coach deserving of a Top 2 ranking. His ten-season head coaching record, which includes only three seasons with a record above .600 and a mid-season firing from USC in 2015, leaves much to be desired.

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When I consider my top teams, coaching prowess plays a significant role. Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs are my #1 pick due to their consistent success. Kalen DeBoer, who led his team to victory over Texas in last season’s Semi-Finals, now helms Alabama, the most decorated program in College Football, earning my #2 spot. With Harbaugh’s departure leaving Michigan in disarray, Ryan Day and his Buckeyes, who’ve never had a full (I really want to hit home the use of the word "full" in this sentence) season with less than ten wins, are my #3 choice. And just to be a jackass, Dan Lanning and his Oregon Ducks, with a 22-5 record, deserve recognition and I'll put them at #4 above Texas. 

There are numerous Coach/Program pairings with better statistics than Texas and Steve Sarkisian. Sarkisian’s success will hinge on his players’ performance, and there are many coaches in the Top-12 who could outcoach him in the playoffs.
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Program experience is another crucial factor. Texas hasn’t had a 10+ game-winning season since 2009, a record that programs like Alabama, Ohio State, Georgia, and Oregon wouldn’t tolerate. Texas fans, players, and donors have grown accustomed to seasons with less than ten wins, and I don’t foresee that changing anytime soon.

While I hate to admit things are looking up for the Longhorns, they have a lot to prove before I believe they are a #2 team in the country. With a 12 team playoff format this season, it will be hard to debate whether they are or are not worthy of the title. 
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