The Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners made the official announcement of their move to the SEC on July 1st, three years after the initial announcement. While many initially believed that the Sooners would seamlessly transition to the SEC while facing challenges for the Longhorns, perceptions have shifted.
Brent Venables and the Sooners are coming off a 10-3 season but face one of the toughest schedules in college football this year. Heisman Trophy candidate QB Dillon Gabriel transferred to Oregon, and new starting quarterback Jackson Arnold struggled with three interceptions against Arizona last year. On the other hand, Texas has thrived under their Big 12 title and a CFP berth in 2023. QB Quinn Ewers will return as a starter for his third year and is projected as a future first-round draft pick. Texas also added standout wide receiver Isaiah Bond from the transfer portal this offseason. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has proven himself to be one of the best coaches in college football, with Texas widely considered a top-five pre-season team this year.
As we approach the first season of the 16-team SEC, CBS Sports ranks Sarkisian at No. 3 in conference rankings and No. 5 overall in college football. They note that Texas has shown continuous improvement under Sarkisian’s leadership, culminating in a Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance in 2023. With Ewers leading