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Is Texas Ready to Join the College Football Playoff?

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Longhorns Make Playoff Push After Upset Win Over Aggies

Table of Contents

AUSTIN,TX – December 2,2025 – The Texas Longhorns are making a compelling case for inclusion in the 12-team College Football Playoff despite a 9-3 regular season record. A resounding 27-17 victory over previously undefeated and No. 3 ranked Texas A&M has thrust the Longhorns into the national conversation.

The win capped off a challenging season for Texas, marked by both impressive victories and tough losses. However, Head Coach Steve Sarkisian believes his team deserves consideration, particularly given their willingness to schedule challenging non-conference opponents like Ohio State.

“We’ve got a really good football team,” Sarkisian stated after the game. “It would be a disservice to our sport if this teamS not a playoff team when we went and scheduled that non-conference game [Ohio State]. Because if we’re a 10-2 team,that’s not a question.”

The Longhorns’ resume boasts three wins against teams ranked in the top ten of the AP poll. Crucially, they secured double-digit victories against both of their biggest rivals – Texas A&M and Vanderbilt – both of whom are widely expected to make the playoff field.

READ MORE: Longhorns dominate in 2nd half to upset Aggies, 27-17

The College Football Playoff committee will announce its final selections on Sunday, leaving Longhorn fans anxiously awaiting their fate. Texas’s strong finish and quality wins have undoubtedly positioned them as a serious contender for a playoff berth.

How crucial is Quinn ewers’ health and decision-making to Texas’s playoff aspirations?

Is Texas Ready to Join the College Football playoff?

The Longhorns’ 2025 Season: A Playoff Contender?

The question on every Texas Longhorns fan’s mind as we head into December 2025: are they finally ready to consistently compete for, and win, a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP)? After years of rebuilding and navigating the complexities of conference realignment – the move to the SEC being paramount – the pieces appear to be falling into place. This article dives deep into the factors determining Texas’s playoff readiness, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, schedule, and the evolving landscape of college football.We’ll cover everything from quarterback play to defensive consistency,and how the SEC gauntlet impacts their chances.

Offensive firepower: Quinn Ewers and beyond

A notable portion of Texas’s playoff hopes rests on the shoulders of quarterback Quinn Ewers. His development and consistency are crucial.

* Ewers’ Performance: A healthy and decisive Ewers is a game-changer. His ability to extend plays, make accurate throws under pressure, and limit turnovers will be key. Stats from the 2024 season (assuming continued improvement) will be heavily scrutinized.

* Running Game Depth: The emergence of a reliable secondary running back to complement CJ Baxter is vital. A strong running attack alleviates pressure on Ewers and controls the clock.

* Wide Receiver corps: Texas boasts a talented group of wide receivers. Maximizing their potential through creative playcalling and consistent targets is essential. Look for continued growth from Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Worthy (if he returns).

* Offensive Line Stability: Protecting Ewers and creating running lanes requires a cohesive and experienced offensive line. Addressing any weaknesses in the line during the offseason is a top priority.

defensive Prowess: A Key to Championship Contention

While the offence grabs headlines, a stout defense is often the hallmark of playoff teams. Texas’s defense has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency is the missing ingredient.

* Pass Rush Effectiveness: Generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is paramount. Improving the pass rush without relying solely on blitzes is crucial.

* Secondary Coverage: Tight coverage and limiting explosive plays through the air are essential. The secondary needs to be able to handle the elite receivers they’ll face in the SEC.

* Run Stopping Ability: The SEC is known for its powerful running games. Texas must be able to consistently stop the run to control the line of scrimmage.

* defensive Coordinator Strategy: The defensive scheme needs to be adaptable and effective against a variety of offensive styles.

The SEC Gauntlet: A Brutal Path to the Playoff

The move to the SEC presents both opportunities and challenges for Texas. The conference is arguably the moast competitive in college football, meaning every game is a battle.

* Tough Schedule: Texas’s 2025 schedule will be filled with challenging opponents, including potential matchups against Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. Navigating this schedule with minimal losses is critical.

* Conference Championship Implications: Winning the SEC Championship is almost a guaranteed ticket to the CFP. Texas needs to be in contention for the title down the stretch.

* Rivalry Games: The annual rivalry game against Oklahoma will take on even greater significance in the SEC. Winning this game boosts morale and improves playoff chances.

* Road Game Challenges: Winning on the road in the SEC is notoriously difficult. texas needs to be prepared for hostile environments and tough competition.

Special Teams: The Often-Overlooked Factor

Don’t underestimate the impact of special teams. A reliable kicker, punter, and return game can swing momentum and win close games.

* Kicking Consistency: A dependable kicker is crucial for converting field goals and extra points.

* Punting Excellence: A strong punter can pin opponents deep in their own territory, giving the defense an advantage.

* Return Game Threat: A dangerous returner can create scoring opportunities and change the complexion of a game.

* coverage units: Solid special teams coverage prevents opponents from gaining significant yardage on kick and punt returns.

Recruiting and Player Development: building for Sustained Success

Long-term playoff contention requires consistent recruiting and player development. Texas has made strides in both areas under Coach Sarkisian.

* Top-tier Recruiting Classes: Attracting and signing elite recruits is essential for replenishing the roster and improving overall talent.

* Development of Underclassmen: Maximizing the potential of current players through effective coaching and training is crucial.

* Transfer Portal Strategy: Utilizing the transfer portal to address specific needs and add experienced players can provide an immediate boost.

* Strength and Conditioning Program: A robust strength and conditioning program is vital for developing physically imposing and durable

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Sport

2025 College Football Playoff Predictions: Anticipating the No. 1 Ranking in the First Rankings Release

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

The Athletic has live coverage of the first release of the 2025 College Football Playoff rankings.

The first College Football Playoff rankings of the 2025 season will be revealed at 8 p.m. Tuesday, and I’ll be using my projections model to predict how the selection committee will rank the teams each week.

I’ve spent hours studying the relevant metrics to predict the rankings and have found a formula that works pretty well. In fact, last year, my final projected College Football Playoff bracket was not only perfect at getting all 12 teams correct, but also the exact seeds for each team.

No formula is perfect, of course. These are humans making selections, and there has been talk of strength of schedule mattering more this year. But as it stands right now, I feel pretty confident these rankings will do a pretty good job of predicting how the committee will think:

Projected CFP Top 25 after Week 10

Rank

Team

Record

SOR

SOS

1

8-0

6

64

2

9-0

3

45

3

8-0

1

14

4

7-1

4

7

5

7-1

5

9

6

8-1

2

19

7

7-1

21

72

8

8-0

7

57

9

8-1

11

49

10

6-2

16

16

11

7-2

13

23

12

7-1

9

53

13

8-1

12

70

14

7-2

10

8

15

8-1

8

74

16

7-2

14

17

17

7-2

18

58

18

6-2

17

18

19

6-2

20

31

20

6-2

23

30

21

7-2

15

36

22

6-2

22

42

23

6-2

30

67

24

6-3

32

13

25

7-2

19

54

Next five: Memphis, North Texas, James Madison, Pittsburgh, South Florida

Strength of record (SOR) and strength of schedule (SOS) rankings are based on The Athletic’s model

Biggest question: How will strength of schedule be factored in?

Table of Contents

Last year, the drama surrounding the final playoff rankings was SMU (11-2) getting the final at-large bid over Alabama (9-3) after losing an extra game in the ACC championship against Clemson. SMU ultimately traveled to Penn State in the first round, where it lost 38-10 to the Nittany Lions.

For years, the Power 5 conferences (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC) dominated college football, but with conference realignment obliterating the Pac-12, it’s now a Power 4 that feels more like a Power 2 with the Big Ten and SEC calling the shots.

Personally, I think the strength of schedule discussion is a little overblown. A lot of metrics that you’ll hear about — including strength of record — do a good job factoring in the quality of opponents that every team plays. According to my strength of record numbers, four of the top five teams are from the SEC. Two teams from the Big Ten fill out of the other spots in the top six.

Where things get tricky is when we start talking about raw wins and losses or beating teams with a winning record. In other words, an 8-4 team from the MAC should not be seen as the same as an 8-4 team from the SEC. That’s not how we should be choosing teams when there are plenty of better ways to measure team quality or resume.

At the end of the day, the committee has done a pretty good job of ranking teams during the CFP era with few true controversies in the final selections. Because SMU was ranked ahead of Alabama before the ACC title game game last year, I think it’s fair that it didn’t get punished while Alabama was at home not playing an extra game. Was Alabama the better team? Most likely. More deserving? Well, the committee didn’t think so.

Will it continue to operate that way? Or will the power continue to swing toward the Big Ten and SEC? My projected Top 25 has three ACC teams in the initial top 15 and two Big 12 teams in the top 10, which gives both conferences a legit shot at two at-large bids. We will start finding out Tuesday night whether the committee thinks so too.

With the expanded field, there will always be arguments over the final at-large bid, considering how close those teams’ resumes often are. And in last year’s case, the two were very similar and the committee went with the regular season having meaning rather than just picking the “best” team.

If the committee is using more metrics that attempt to adjust for schedule and give context to a team’s record, I’m not going to argue with that. As for what I think the committee will do, I believe it will side with the teams with the better schedules because that aligns with the Power 2 conferences. Will the changes be drastic? No. But if two teams are similar in resume, my guess is that they will spurn the ACC/Big 12 and side with the Big Ten/SEC.

What the 12-team bracket would look like

The bracket below is based on the projected selection committee rankings for Nov. 4. Find my projections for the final bracket here.

How might Georgia’s remaining SEC schedule (including the championship game) impact their ranking compared too a team with a less challenging conference slate?

2025 College Football playoff predictions: Anticipating the No. 1 Ranking in the First Rankings Release

The Contenders for the Top Spot

The first College Football Playoff rankings release is always a pivotal moment, setting the stage for the final stretch of the season.Predicting the No. 1 team this early is a challenge, but analyzing team performance, strength of schedule, and key matchups provides valuable insight. Hear’s a breakdown of the leading contenders as of November 4th,2025,and their chances of claiming that coveted top seed.

Georgia Bulldogs: The Reigning Powerhouse

Georgia remains a dominant force in college football. Their consistent performance, strong defense, and efficient offense make them a perennial playoff threat.

* Record: 9-0 (as of Nov 4, 2025)

* Key wins: vs. Alabama (road), vs. Tennessee

* Remaining Schedule: Florida, georgia Tech, SEC Championship Game (potential rematch with Alabama or Texas)

* Why they could be #1: Dominance in the SEC, proven ability to win close games, and a history of playoff success.Their defense is consistently ranked among the nation’s best, allowing them to control the tempo of games.

* Potential Roadblocks: A slip-up against Florida or Georgia Tech could jeopardize their undefeated record. A tough SEC Championship game opponent will be a meaningful test.

Ohio State Buckeyes: Explosive offense, Championship Aspirations

Ohio State’s offense is arguably the most explosive in the country. Their ability to score quickly and consistently puts immense pressure on opposing defenses.

* Record: 9-0 (as of Nov 4, 2025)

* Key Wins: vs. Notre Dame, vs. Penn State

* Remaining Schedule: Michigan State, Michigan, Big Ten Championship Game

* Why they could be #1: High-powered offense, strong quarterback play, and a favorable path to the Big Ten Championship. They’ve demonstrated the ability to overcome adversity.

* Potential Roadblocks: “The Game” against Michigan is always a challenge. A loss to Michigan State, while unlikely, would substantially damage their playoff hopes.

Michigan Wolverines: Ground Game and Defensive Prowess

michigan continues to build on its recent success,boasting a powerful running game and a stout defense.Their methodical approach to offense and ability to control the clock make them a arduous opponent.

* Record: 9-0 (as of Nov 4, 2025)

* Key Wins: vs. Washington, vs. Iowa

* Remaining Schedule: Maryland, Ohio State, Big Ten Championship Game

* Why they could be #1: Dominant running game, strong defensive line, and a proven coaching staff. Their ability to win in tough environments is a major asset.

* Potential roadblocks: The rivalry game against Ohio State will be a defining moment. Maintaining focus and avoiding complacency in their remaining games is crucial.

florida State Seminoles: ACC Dominance and Playoff Push

Florida state has emerged as a legitimate national championship contender, showcasing a balanced attack and improved defense.

* Record: 9-0 (as of Nov 4, 2025)

* Key Wins: vs. LSU, vs. Clemson

* Remaining Schedule: Miami, Florida, ACC Championship Game

* Why they could be #1: Undefeated record, strong quarterback play, and a favorable conference schedule.They’ve shown the ability to win against quality opponents.

* Potential Roadblocks: The rivalry game against Miami is always highly contested. A potential ACC Championship game against a strong opponent (like Clemson) could be a challenge.

Key Factors Influencing the Rankings

Beyond win-loss records,several factors will heavily influence the College Football Playoff committee’s initial rankings.

Strength of Schedule (SOS)

The committee places significant emphasis on the quality of opponents faced. Teams with tougher schedules generally receive a boost in the rankings,even with a similar record to teams with easier schedules. Analyzing conference standings and non-conference results is crucial. This year, the SEC and Big Ten appear to have the strongest SOS overall.

Head-to-Head Results

Direct matchups between ranked teams carry significant weight. A win over a highly-ranked opponent is a major resume booster.The Georgia

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world

Top Performances Shaping Women’s College Basketball All-America Team: Featuring Madison Booker, Hannah Hidalgo, and More Standouts

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor


New Era Dawns: Ranking the Top 10 Women’s College basketball players for 2025-26

The landscape of Women’s College Basketball is undergoing a dramatic shift.The graduation of UConn standout Paige Bueckers and the season-long absence of USC’s JuJu Watkins due to injury have created a power vacuum at the top of the sport, a situation unseen since 2020. Despite this change, familiar forces are emerging, with UConn positioned to defend its championship title, spearheaded by sophomore sensation Sarah Strong.

The Rise of a New Generation

Table of Contents

Sarah Strong, reminiscent of Huskies’ legend Breanna Stewart, is widely projected as the preeminent player entering the 2025-26 season. The Athletic‘s preseason All-American selections reflect a blend of established stars and rising talents, with only two graduating seniors and the injured Watkins absent from the list. The consensus points to a group defined by proven performance, boasting three multi-time All-Americans, including the reigning scoring leader.

Frist Team All-Americans: A Detailed Look

Sarah Strong, UConn, Sophomore Forward

2024-25 Stats: 16.4 points per game, 8.9 rebounds per game, 3.6 assists per game, 2.3 steals per game,1.7 blocks per game, 59% field goal percentage, 39% three-point percentage.

Strong’s exceptional freshman campaign has propelled her to the forefront of the sport. Her dominant performance in the national championship game, with 24 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, showcased her versatility and poise. Further development during the offseason – including participation with the USA’s 3×3 team – has honed her skills and international experience.

Lauren Betts, UCLA, Senior Center

2024-25 Stats: 20.2 points per game, 9.5 rebounds per game, 2.9 blocks per game, 65% field goal percentage.

Betts, a cornerstone of UCLA’s Final Four run, is celebrated for her efficiency near the basket. Motivated by last season’s championship near-miss, she enters her final collegiate year with renewed determination. the addition of transfer Gianna Kneepkens, a noted three-point specialist, is expected to create more space for Betts in the paint and enhance her playmaking opportunities.

Madison Booker, Texas, Junior Wing

2024-25 Stats: 16.3 points per game, 6.6 rebounds per game, 2.7 assists per game, 40% three-point percentage.

Booker has quickly established herself as a force, earning Big 12 and SEC Player of the Year honors in her first two seasons. Her shooting has improved substantially, and she is primed for an even more impactful junior year. With key teammates Rori Harmon and Kyla Oldacre returning, Texas looks poised to contend for an SEC title and a national championship.

Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame, Junior Guard

2024-25 Stats: 23.8 points per game, 3.6 assists per game,3.7 steals per game, 40% three-point percentage.

Despite significant roster changes at Notre Dame,Hidalgo is positioned to remain a dominant force. The two-time ACC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year is a high-volume scorer who will see increased opportunities following the departures of several key players.Her betterment in shooting efficiency and tenacious defense make her a formidable opponent.

Mikayla Blakes, Vanderbilt, Sophomore Guard

2024-25 Stats: 23.3 points per game, 3.4 assists per game, 45.6% field goal percentage.

Blakes is a transformative player who made an immediate impact as a freshman, scoring over 50 points in multiple games and setting a freshman record with 55 points in a single contest. She led all freshmen in scoring and ranked among the nation’s leaders. With the departure of forward Khamil Pierre, Blakes is expected to shoulder even more of the offensive load.

Second Team All-Americans: Rising Stars

Flau’jae Johnson, LSU, Senior Guard

2024-25 Stats: 18.6 points per game, 5.6 rebounds per game, 46.8% field goal percentage, 38.3% three-point percentage.

Johnson’s offensive versatility has blossomed as she assumes a larger role. She has proven effective in pick-and-roll situations and as a spot-up shooter.the arrival of transfer milaysia Fulwiley adds another dynamic element to the LSU offense, but Johnson will remain the team’s primary leader.

Olivia Miles, TCU, Graduate Guard

2024-25 Stats: 15.4 points per game, 5.8 assists per game, 1.4 steals per game, 40.6% three-point percentage.

Miles, a three-time assist leader in the ACC, brings exceptional playmaking ability to TCU after transferring from Notre Dame. Her recovery from an ACL injury has added a new dimension to her game,and she is expected to flourish in TCU’s pick-and-roll system alongside teammates Clara Silva and Marta Suarez.

Latson, South Carolina, senior Guard

2024-25 Stats: 25.2 points per game, 4.6 rebounds per game, 4.6 assists per game, 45.1% field goal percentage.

latson, a proven scorer, transferred to South Carolina after previously leading Florida State to an NCAA Tournament victory.She’s poised to immediately elevate the Gamecocks’ offense.

Azzi Fudd, UConn, Graduate Guard

2024-25 Stats: 13.6 points per game, 91.7% free throw percentage, 43.6% three-point percentage.

fudd’s performance at the 2025 Final Four signaled her potential. Now, with Bueckers’ departure, she’s expected to take on a more prominent scoring role.

Cotie McMahon, Ole miss, Senior Forward

2024-25 Stats: 16.5 points per game, 4.7 rebounds per game, 44.4% field goal percentage, 37.4% three-point percentage.

McMahon’s physicality and offensive prowess make her a key asset for Ole Miss. A change of scenery is expected to enhance her efficiency, and she is poised to lead the rebels to SEC title contention.

Player School Position Points Per Game (PPG)
sarah Strong UConn Forward 16.4
Lauren Betts UCLA Center 20.2
Madison Booker Texas Wing 16.3
Hannah Hidalgo Notre Dame Guard 23.8

Did You Know? Sarah Strong spent part of her offseason competing with Team USA’s senior 3×3 team, gaining international experience and enhancing her skills in a fast-paced environment.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the impact of transfer players like Olivia Miles (Notre Dame to TCU) and Latson (Florida State to South Carolina) – they have the potential to dramatically alter their new teams’ fortunes.

What impact will the absence of star players like Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins have on the overall competitiveness of the league? And which under-the-radar players are poised to make a significant leap this season?

Looking Ahead: Trends in Women’s College Basketball

The increasing emphasis on versatility and skilled playmaking is shaping the future of women’s college basketball. Players like Sarah Strong, who can excel in multiple facets of the game, are becoming increasingly valuable. The transfer portal also continues to play a vital role, allowing players to find opportunities that best suit their development and championship aspirations. the rising popularity of the sport, fueled by increased media coverage and passionate fan bases, is attracting top talent and elevating the overall level of competition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s College Basketball

  • What is driving the increased competitiveness in women’s college basketball? The influx of talented players, increased media coverage, and greater investment in programs are all contributing factors.
  • How important is the transfer portal in shaping team rosters? The transfer portal is critically important, allowing players to find better fits and teams to address specific needs quickly.
  • Who is considered the frontrunner for the national championship in 2026? UConn is currently favored, but several teams, including UCLA and Texas, are strong contenders.
  • What skills are most valued in today’s college basketball players? Versatility, shooting efficiency, strong defense, and playmaking ability are highly sought-after skills.
  • How has the game evolved in the last five years? The game is faster-paced, more athletic, and features improved shooting and sophisticated offensive schemes.
  • What role does international experience play for the players? International experience substantially exposes players to different styles of play and competition, refining skills and mental toughness.
  • Is the level of competition increasing in women’s college basketball? Absolutely; the talent pool is deeper, competition is fierce, and more teams contend for championships.

Share your thoughts on these rising stars and the new season in the comments below!

How do advanced stats like PER and Win shares contribute to evaluating a player’s All-America candidacy?

Top Performances Shaping Women’s College Basketball All-America Team: Featuring Madison Booker, hannah Hidalgo, and More standouts

Rising Stars Dominating the NCAA Women’s Basketball Landscape

The 2025 women’s college basketball season is already delivering electrifying performances, making the selection process for the All-America team incredibly competitive. Several players are consistently exceeding expectations, showcasing skills that position them as frontrunners for national accolades. This article dives into the standout performances shaping the conversation around the upcoming All-America selections, focusing on key players like Madison Booker and Hannah Hidalgo, alongside other rising stars. We’ll analyze their impact, statistics, and potential for continued success throughout the season.Key search terms include: women’s college basketball,All-America team,NCAA basketball,Madison Booker,Hannah Hidalgo,college basketball rankings,women’s basketball players.

Madison Booker: A Force to Be Reckoned Wiht

Madison Booker (Northwestern) has quickly become a household name in women’s college basketball. Her all-around game – scoring, rebounding, and passing – makes her a unique and valuable asset.

* Statistical dominance: Averaging [Insert Current Stats – e.g., 22.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, 5.1 assists] per game, Booker consistently impacts every facet of the game.

* Leadership Qualities: Beyond the numbers, Booker demonstrates extraordinary court vision and leadership, elevating the play of her teammates.

* Impact on Northwestern: Her arrival has considerably boosted northwestern’s national profile and competitiveness within the Big Ten Conference.

* All-America Potential: Analysts predict Booker is a strong contender for Frist-Team All-America honors, possibly even Player of the Year consideration. Related keywords: Madison Booker stats, Northwestern basketball, Big Ten basketball, women’s basketball player profiles.

Hannah Hidalgo: The Dynamic Point Guard

hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame) is electrifying audiences with her aggressive style of play and exceptional scoring ability. She’s quickly establishing herself as one of the most exciting players to watch in NCAA basketball.

* Scoring Prowess: Hidalgo’s ability to create her own shot and drive to the basket makes her a constant scoring threat.[Insert Current Stats – e.g.,24.8 points, 4.5 assists, 3.2 steals] per game.

* Defensive Intensity: She’s not just an offensive force; Hidalgo’s defensive pressure and steal rate are game-changing.

* notre Dame’s Success: Her performance is directly correlated with Notre Dame’s success, propelling them into the top rankings.

* National Recognition: Hidalgo is receiving meaningful national media attention and is a leading candidate for major awards. Keywords: Hannah Hidalgo stats, Notre Dame basketball, ACC basketball, women’s college basketball highlights.

Other Standout Performances to Watch

Beyond Booker and Hidalgo, several other players are making compelling cases for All-America consideration.

  1. JuJu Watkins (USC): The freshman sensation is living up to the hype, showcasing a mature game and impressive scoring ability. Her impact on USC’s program is undeniable.
  2. Aaliyah Edwards (Connecticut): A dominant post player, Edwards consistently delivers double-doubles and provides a strong interior presence for the Huskies.
  3. Kamilla Cardoso (South Carolina): A force in the paint, Cardoso’s rebounding and shot-blocking ability are crucial to South Carolina’s defensive success.
  4. Angel Reese (LSU): While facing increased defensive attention, Reese continues to be a dominant rebounder and a key leader for the defending champions. Keywords: JuJu Watkins USC, Aaliyah Edwards UConn, Kamilla Cardoso South Carolina, Angel Reese LSU, women’s basketball rankings.

The Impact of Advanced Stats on All-America Selection

Modern college basketball rankings and all-America selections are increasingly influenced by advanced statistics. Metrics like Player Efficiency Rating (PER), Win Shares, and True Shooting Percentage provide a more comprehensive evaluation of a player’s overall impact.

* PER (Player Efficiency Rating): A per-minute rating developed by John Hollinger, PER attempts to boil down all of a player’s positive accomplishments into a single number.

* Win Shares: An estimate of the number of wins contributed by a player.

* True Shooting Percentage: A more accurate measure of shooting efficiency then traditional field goal percentage, taking into account three-pointers and free throws.

These advanced stats, combined with traditional box score numbers and game film analysis, provide a more nuanced understanding of a player’s value.

The Role of Conference Competition

the strength of a player’s conference plays a significant role in All-America consideration. Players competing in highly competitive conferences like the Big Ten,ACC,SEC,and Pac-12 frequently enough receive more recognition due to the increased exposure and quality of opponents.Playing against top-tier competition consistently elevates a player’s profile and demonstrates their

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News

Texas-Oklahoma takeaways: Longhorns topple No. 6 Sooners to reignite College Football Playoff hopes

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Arch Manning Leads Texas to Stunning Upset Over No. 6 Oklahoma in Red River Showdown

AUSTIN, TX – In a game that felt like a turning point, Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns delivered a resounding 23-6 victory over the No. 6 Oklahoma Sooners in the annual Red River Rivalry. The win, a much-needed boost for a Texas team that entered the game with losses to Ohio State and Florida, not only silences critics – at least for now – but keeps their College Football Playoff hopes alive. This is a breaking news development that has the college football world buzzing, and archyde.com is bringing you the full story.

From Frustration to Firepower: How Texas Turned the Tide

The first half was a struggle for the Longhorns, plagued by penalties and offensive stagnation. Facing consistently long-yardage situations – third-and-23, third-and-12, and even third-and-30 – the Texas offense looked out of sync. However, a halftime adjustment and a renewed commitment to a balanced attack sparked a dramatic turnaround. Manning, after a rocky start, orchestrated a methodical 14-play, 75-yard drive to open the second half, culminating in a 12-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Moore Jr. This drive wasn’t just about points; it was about establishing a rhythm and belief.

“I think what we saw today was Texas fight,” head coach Steve Sarkisian told ESPN postgame. “It was a gut-check coming out of last week’s game.”

Manning’s Poise and the Offensive Line’s Resilience

While the stats – 21-of-27 passing for 166 yards and one touchdown, with 34 rushing yards – don’t scream dominance, Manning’s performance was marked by smart decision-making and a refusal to turn the ball over. He took what the defense gave him, extended plays with his legs when necessary, and crucially, avoided costly mistakes. The offensive line, a major point of concern entering the game, settled in during the second half, creating running lanes for Quintrevion Wisner and providing Manning with more time to operate. This improvement is a key indicator of Texas’s potential for sustained success. For those following the NFL Draft, this game offered a glimpse of Manning’s growth, though analysts like Nick Baumgardner still see him as a potential 2027 prospect.

Oklahoma’s Struggles and Mateer’s Injury Impact

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, playing just 17 days after surgery on his throwing hand, visibly struggled with his accuracy and decision-making. While his toughness is admirable – he continued to play despite further injury during the game – his performance was hampered by the injury and a relentless Texas defense. Mateer finished with costly turnovers, including three interceptions, and was consistently pressured by the Longhorns’ pass rush. The Sooners’ offense, typically explosive, was held to just 258 yards of total offense. The game highlighted the challenges of playing through injury at the highest level of college football.

Special Teams Spark: Niblett’s Game-Changing Punt Return

The Longhorns’ victory wasn’t solely built on offensive and defensive improvements. A 75-yard punt return for a touchdown by sophomore receiver Ryan Niblett in the fourth quarter provided the exclamation point, effectively sealing the win. Special teams often get overlooked, but Niblett’s electrifying play proved to be a game-changer.

Defensive Dominance: Texas Shuts Down the Sooners

Texas’s defense was the story of the day, recording five sacks and consistently disrupting Mateer’s rhythm. Sophomore edge rusher Colin Simmons continued his breakout performance, while the secondary, led by Manny Muhammad (two interceptions), played disciplined and opportunistic football. This is the third time in four years under Brent Venables that Pete Kwiatkowski’s Longhorns defense has held Oklahoma scoreless.

Looking Ahead: What This Win Means for Texas and Oklahoma

For Texas (4-2), this victory is a lifeline. They face a manageable schedule in the coming weeks, with road trips to Kentucky and Mississippi State before hosting Vanderbilt. If they can continue to build on this momentum, a College Football Playoff berth remains within reach. For Oklahoma, the loss is a significant setback. They now face a brutal stretch of games against top-15 opponents, and their path to the SEC Championship Game and the Playoff has become considerably more challenging. This game serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football and the importance of staying healthy and executing consistently. This is a developing story, and archyde.com will continue to provide updates and analysis as the season unfolds. Stay tuned for more sports news and breaking news coverage.

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