SEC Fans Proven Wrong: Texas Surges in College Football Playoff
In a surprising turn of events, the Georgia Bulldogs (11-3) were eliminated from the College Football Playoff after falling to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (13-1) on Thursday. With their exit, only one SEC team remains in contention for the national title—and it’s none other than the Texas Longhorns (13-2).
For many, the Longhorns’ success this season defies expectations. When Texas announced its move to the SEC, critics predicted a harsh reality for the program, forecasting struggles against the conference’s powerhouse teams. However, Texas has done more than silence its doubters—they’ve emerged as a legitimate contender.
Joining perennial playoff contenders like Ohio State (12-2), Penn State (13-2), and Notre Dame in the semifinals, Texas has proven itself a force to be reckoned with. Their rise has sparked commentary from notable voices in the college football world, including Stewart Mandel of The Athletic. Taking to the social media platform “X,” Mandel addressed both Notre Dame’s statement victory over Georgia and Texas’ unexpected success.
“Doesn’t get more definitive than [Notre Dame] hammering the SEC champion/recent two-time national champ in a Playoff game,” Mandel wrote. “Meanwhile, after three years of ‘Texas is going to get its brains beat in in the SEC,’ they’re the last SEC team left in their first year in the league.”
Mandel, who has expressed skepticism about Texas football in the past, acknowledged the dominant narrative that preceded their SEC debut. Many believed the Longhorns would struggle to adapt to the heightened competition. Instead, Texas turned heads by finishing 11-1 in the regular season, winning the SEC Championship, and securing back-to-back playoff victories.
Despite their success, Texas now faces its toughest challenge yet: the Ohio State Buckeyes. With a roster loaded with talent, Ohio State has dismantled its playoff opponents, Tennessee (10-3) and Oregon (13-1), by a combined score of 83-38. The Buckeyes, known for their explosive offense and stifling defense, represent the ultimate test for Texas.
Regardless of the outcome, the Longhorns have already accomplished something remarkable. They’ve proven they belong in the SEC, debunking the widespread narrative of impending failure. Their inaugural season in the conference has redefined perceptions of the program and solidified their place among college football’s elite.
As Texas prepares to take on Ohio State, one thing is certain: the Longhorns have exceeded expectations and staked their claim as a rising power in the SEC and beyond.
