“Texas Longhorns’ SEC Revolution: Can They Claim College Football Supremacy?”

The Texas Longhorns are poised for a thrilling finish to their College Football Playoff journey, with their sights set on a national championship. As they gear up for a high-stakes semifinal clash against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl Classic, the team has also received a major boost in the form of preseason rankings.

According to On3 Sports’ early predictions for the 2025 college football season, Texas claims the top spot as the No. 1 team, solidifying their status as a program on the rise. This marks a significant milestone as the Longhorns not only lead the rankings but also sit ahead of powerhouse programs like the Georgia Bulldogs, who are ranked No. 6 and are the next closest SEC contender.

A Transformational Year for Texas

The Longhorns have enjoyed a remarkable 2024 season, boasting a 13-2 record and back-to-back victories in the College Football Playoff. Their success is even more notable considering it was their first year competing in the SEC, a move that has seemingly propelled the program to new heights. However, as the team eyes the national championship, they are also preparing for a significant transition at quarterback.

The Rise of Arch Manning

Texas’ star quarterback, Quinn Ewers, is widely expected to declare for the NFL draft after the playoffs, leaving a vacancy at the helm of the team’s offense. Enter Arch Manning, the highly-touted prospect and former No. 1 recruit from the 2023 class. Manning, the 6-foot-4 phenom with an impressive dual-threat skill set, is set to take center stage in 2025.

Though Manning’s playing time has been limited over the past two years, he has already shown flashes of brilliance. With 969 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and a 66.3% completion rate, he’s proven his capabilities as a precise and efficient passer. Additionally, his ability to contribute on the ground—with 107 rushing yards and four touchdowns—positions him as a versatile and dynamic leader for the Longhorns’ offense.

Expectations Soar for Manning and Texas

With Manning poised to lead Texas into the 2025 season, the program’s expectations are at an all-time high. The hype surrounding Manning, paired with Texas’ strong SEC debut, sets the stage for a potentially historic campaign. Manning’s development as the team’s starting quarterback will be under intense scrutiny, but his pedigree and early performance suggest he’s ready to rise to the challenge.

First, the Cotton Bowl Classic

Before the Longhorns can look ahead to next season, they must first focus on the task at hand: the Cotton Bowl Classic. The semifinal showdown against Ohio State will take place on Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This critical matchup will not only determine Texas’ shot at the national championship but also provide a glimpse into the program’s future under Manning’s leadership.

As Texas navigates the present and prepares for the future, the excitement surrounding Arch Manning and the Longhorns is undeniable. The 2025 season promises to be one of transformation and opportunity, with Manning at the forefront of a team destined for greatness.