The Texas Longhorns (12-1, 8-1 Big 12) earned a spot in the College Football Playoff for the first time in school history. They did so following a 49-21 dismantling of Oklahoma State in the Big 12 Championship Game, propelling them from No. 7 in the CFP rankings to the No. 3 spot. Head coach Steve Sarkisian’s team is focused and appears to be ready to revenge last year’s Alamo Bowl loss to Kalen DeBoer and the Washington Huskies (13-0, 9-0 Pac-12).
The Longhorns will have to find a way to contain Heisman finalist and quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who commands a Washington offense that leads the nation in passing (343.8 ypg). This could be a tall task for a Texas secondary that has given up big plays on several occasions this season. The Huskies’ offensive line won the Joe Moore Award this season, which goes to the nation’s top offensive line, giving Penix a huge advantage. With the offensive accolades showered on Washington, let’s not forget the challenge that lies ahead… The Longhorns’ defensive front, anchored by T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy allow just 80 yards per game on the ground, ranking third nationally in rushing defense. As a whole, Pete Kwiatkowski’s defense has done enough this season to earn a Top-25 ranking in total defense.
Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers leads an explosive multi-faceted offense that has an array of weapons. Ewers, like Penix Jr., plays behind an offensive line that is physical, talented and experienced. The Longhorns rank 25th nationally in passing offense, 23rd in rushing offense and 9th in total offense. Monday’s Sugar Bowl is likely to provide a lot of scoring by two exciting football teams that are at the top of their games.
The Washington vs. Texas winner will play the winner of the Michigan vs. Alabama game in the National Championship Game on January 8th at NRG Stadium in Houston.
What: #3 Texas Longhorns vs. #2 Washington Huskies
When: Monday, January 1, 2024
Time: 7:45 PM
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Venue: Ceasar’s Superdome
TV: ESPN
All Time-Record: Texas leads Washington 3-2
Last Meeting: Washington defeated Texas 27-20 (12/29/2022 – San Antonio, TX)
The Line: Texas -4
