X-Factors for Texas State vs No. 5 Texas

Tomorrow, the Longhorns will look to open the season with a strong first step against the neighboring Bobcats. However, despite the fact that the new Pac-12 Conference member had a near .500 record last season, the Bobcats are full of potential.

Saturday’s X-Factors:

The first thing to watch out for on Saturday is Texas’ size. The Longhorns have one of the top strength & conditioning programs in the country, and are facing a group of six team that is already undersized at several playmaking positions. For example, while star wideouts Beau Sparks and Chris Dawn Jr will be a real threat for a young Texas secondary, both athletes are sub six feet tall. As a result, if the Longhorns can remain sound in their technique, their baseline athleticism should take them pretty far. However, if they are plagued by the penalty bug once again this season, the Bobcats roster will gain more confidence with every snap if things remain close.

Lastly, keep en eye out for Texas’ offense through Arch Manning and Texas transfer duo at running back. In 2025, the Longhorns had ONE game in which a running back eclipsed the 100-yard mark. If Steve Sarkisian’s squad wants any chance of going far this season, that stat will have to change. As a result, expect fireworks on the ground from Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown as both try to set the tone for the season (while also competing for playing time).

At quarterback, it really wasn’t until the Mississippi State game last year (of course, by the end of the night that is) in which Manning found his consistency. Along with a need for reliability from the running backs, Manning also has to find his rhythm earlier this season. If he can play efficiently and produce numbers week one, Manning will able to take a deep sigh of relief prior to the team’s big game against Ohio State.

If the running backs can get off to a hot start, and Manning can find his confidence early in the season, anything will be possible.