Texas should win 10 games in 2023. I predicted as much in my way-too-early record predictions.
Athlon Sports shares a similar view of the Longhorns ranking them as their preseason No. 1 in their Big 12 power rankings.
The case for Steve Sarkisian and company to reach the 10-win mark is an easy one. Texas returns 10 offense starters, not including two game-breaking receivers in Isaiah Neyor and AD Mitchell.
On defense, the Longhorns return a core of Jaylan Ford, Ryan Watts, Jahdae Barron, Jerrin Thompson, Barryn Sorrell and T’Vondre Sweat. Two elite freshmen defensive backs and two portal defensive backs give coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski the makings of a special defense.
On paper, Sarkisian’s squad looks like a Big 12 title favorite. Even so, things have gone awry far too often on the Forty Acres in recent seasons. If the team were to fall below expectations, here’s what could be their undoing.
If Isaiah Neyor doesn’t get back to health
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If Isaiah Neyor is healthy, Texas will be dangerous. In fact, if Sarkisian gets nine games of a fully healthy Neyor I would be surprised if the team can’t win 10 games. That’s how impactful I believe the Wyoming transfer is for the Longhorns. If he and AD Mitchell can’t make the impact we expect them to make, the offense could revert to some of its 2022 struggles.
If Quinn struggles
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Quinn Ewers has all the tools to be a great quarterback for Texas. If he can’t get on the same page with receivers, the Longhorns could be in for a long season. His chemistry with Isaiah Neyor in the passing game is what makes Neyor of such high importance for the team in 2023.
If Texas loses to Alabama
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The early trip to Tuscaloosa could have a huge impact on the direction of the season. Last year, Steve Sarkisian assured fans the season would…
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