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#4 Texas Longhorns
Previous ranking: 5
As the 2024 college football season concludes, the Texas Longhorns, despite an undefeated record, SEC Championship, and National Championship title, find themselves ranked fourth. This placement may be surprising, especially given their top spot in both the Coaches’ and AP polls. The reasons behind this ranking are complex, involving performance nuances and comparisons to rivals like the Texas A&M Aggies, who sit at number three.
The Longhorns’ Season of Contradictions
While the Longhorns have achieved greatness this season, their ranking reflects some underlying concerns. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, despite his talent, struggled with inconsistency, throwing critical interceptions that raised concerns about his decision-making in high-pressure situations. These issues overshadowed what could have been a smoother campaign.
Meanwhile, Arch Manning showed flashes of brilliance, but overall offensive cohesion remained elusive. The rushing attack was a particular area of concern, as Texas allowed nearly a yard more per carry than their season average against weaker opponents. With a PPA/rush of just 0.028 in key matchups, the run game fell short of expectations, casting doubts on their ability to perform against top-tier defenses.
Defensive Resilience or Opportunistic Play?
The Longhorns’ defense has excelled against weaker teams, boasting strong statistics in yards per attempt allowed and third-down conversions. However, these numbers may not tell the whole story. Against more capable offenses, Texas struggled to maintain dominance. There’s a sense that defensive shortcomings could become a vulnerability in crucial matchups, especially against elite competition.
The Aggies’ Justification for #3
By contrast, the Texas A&M Aggies have earned their #3 ranking through consistency and improvement. Despite a rocky season, the Aggies have shown growth, particularly in developing their offensive identity. A dominant performance in the Swamp highlighted their ability to adapt under pressure, even with backup quarterbacks.
A&M’s offensive line has improved significantly, fueling their run game and stabilizing the passing attack. Even with uneven quarterback play, their defense has tightened, particularly against the run, making it difficult for opponents to find rhythm. Their losses have become learning experiences, positioning them well for future challenges.
A Complex Narrative Reflected in the Rankings
The Longhorns’ #4 ranking, despite their championship success, underscores the complexity of college football rankings. Their season was undeniably impressive, but inconsistencies raised questions about their readiness to consistently compete at the highest level. Meanwhile, the Aggies' steady improvement and resilience earned them the #3 spot, ahead of their rivals.
Conclusion
As the 2024 season wraps up, the Texas Longhorns will view their #4 ranking as both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Their undefeated record and championship titles are undeniable, but addressing their inconsistencies is key to solidifying their status among college football’s elite. On the other hand, the Texas A&M Aggies have proven their adaptability and deserve their #3 ranking, setting the stage for an exciting rivalry and the continued evolution of Texas football.