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- The Longhorns’ schedule includes a significant number of games against ranked opponents, including matchups against teams like Oklahoma, Baylor, and TCU. This will provide them with opportunities to earn quality wins and improve their national ranking.
- The Big 12 is known for its competitive nature, with several teams consistently vying for conference supremacy. The Longhorns will face a gauntlet of strong contenders throughout the season, including teams like Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and West Virginia.
- The Longhorns have a history of facing tough opponents in their non-conference schedule. This year’s slate includes games against Alabama and Rice. These matchups will test the Longhorns’ resilience and ability to compete against elite programs outside the conference.
Identifying Key Matchups
Within the Longhorns’ schedule, certain matchups stand out as particularly crucial for their playoff aspirations. These games could be considered “trap games” or have the potential to significantly impact their season.
- The Longhorns will face several unranked opponents throughout the season. While these games might seem less challenging on paper, it’s important to remember that upsets can happen in college football. The Longhorns must avoid overlooking these opponents and maintain their focus throughout the season.
- The Longhorns have a history of facing teams with strong historical records or recent momentum. These matchups can be unpredictable and require the Longhorns to be at their best to secure a victory. For example, the game against Texas Tech, a team with a recent history of upsetting ranked opponents, could be a significant challenge.
- The Longhorns will face several games on the road or with unusual scheduling factors. These games can be more difficult to win due to the challenges of travel, unfamiliar environments, and potential disruptions to their usual routines. For example, the game against Oklahoma State, a traditional rival, could be a difficult matchup due to the hostile environment at Boone Pickens Stadium.
Conference and Non-Conference Challenges
The Longhorns’ conference schedule will be a major test of their playoff aspirations. The Big 12 is known for its competitive nature, and the Longhorns will face several teams with the potential to upset them.
- The Longhorns will face several conference rivals with strong offensive or defensive schemes. These matchups will require the Longhorns to be well-prepared and execute their game plan flawlessly. For example, the game against Oklahoma, a team with a potent offense, will be a significant challenge.
- The Longhorns have established rivalries with several teams in the Big 12, including Texas A&M and Oklahoma. These games are often highly charged and emotional, which can impact the outcome of the game. The Longhorns will need to maintain their composure and focus to avoid falling victim to the intensity of these rivalries.
