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Josh Pate: “Texas looks like the best team in the Big 12”

joey hickey
·5 min read
44

Don’t overthink the Big 12. Texas is the best team in the conference.

In his podcast, Josh Pate outlined why the Longhorns should have plenty of confidence heading into the 2023 season. It revolves around proven commodities that other Big 12 teams don’t possess.

They are 19th in returning production. Both lines of scrimmage have improved, I would say significantly. And that’s been a multiyear process, especially on the offensive line. They’ve got one of the best wide receiver rooms in the country. Quarterback room is in excellent shape, especially since they kept Maalik Murphy.

Pate then went on to discuss why you should not overthink where Texas stands among Big 12 teams.

They are the odds on favorite to win the Big 12 this year. And they should be the favorite this year. Because Texas looks like the best team pre-season in the Big 12.

Here’s a look at some of the most proven commodities that give Texas confidence in 2023.

Xavier Worthy

Perhaps the best route runner in college football returns for the Longhorns this season. If he can be as effective tracking passes downfield as he is at getting open, he will be an All-American candidate.

Jaylan Ford

Though he did not win Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Ford was the most productive defensive player in the conference last season. Look for him to cement himself as an early NFL draft pick.

Kelvin Banks

Banks was as good as gold as a pass blocker last season. Even so, it’s his tenacity that makes the Texas offensive line different than in past seasons.

Christian Jones

Christian Jones drew plenty of criticism prior to last season. Now he’s one of the best pass protectors in the Big 12. The two best pass blockers in the conference return for Texas in 2023.

T'Vondre Sweat

Sweat came up with critical money down plays against Oklahoma and Alabama last season. And while Byron Murphy and Alfred Collins are seeing the most attention at defensive tackle this offseason, you can count on Sweat to make game-changing plays.

Ja'Tavion Sanders

Sanders is regarded by some as his team’s best NFL prospect for the 2024 draft. Expect his quarterback Quinn Ewers to look for him in critical moments.

Jordan Whittington

Whittington has been an unsung hero at Texas. He’s certainly been one of the more proven commodities on the team. More opportunities could open up for the unique receiver this year.

Ryan Watts

Watts was a starting cornerback at Ohio State before transferring to Texas last season. Look for him to receive all-conference honors this season at cornerback.

Jahdae Barron

Barron is perhaps the most versatile Texas defensive back. The nickel corner is set to produce an NFL draft-worthy season in 2023.

Jerrin Thompson

Since Thompson picked off Kansas State quarterback Will Howard late in 2020, he’s been regarded as one of the secondary’s most valuable players. Now he’s one of the smarter defensive backs on the team.

AD Mitchell

If four career touchdowns in the College Football Playoff does not make one a proven commodity, the bar is too high. His spring game performance should fire up the Texas coaching staff about what he could bring to the team.

Barryn Sorrell

After breaking out last year, Barryn Sorrell is shooting for a double-digit sack season. The Texas pass rush outside of Sorrell is perhaps the biggest concern for the team.

Story originally appeared on Longhorns Wire