The Texas Longhorns sent shockwaves through the college football world with their commanding 34-24 victory over Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide IN Tuscaloosa last Saturday.
The impressive win has not only catapulted the Longhorns to the #4 spot in the AP Top 25 Poll but has also ignited discussions about their potential as legitimate national championship contenders.
One notable figure who firmly believes in the Longhorns championship aspirations is ESPN college football analyst and former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy.
McElroy shared his thoughts on the latest episode of “Always College Football,” expressing confidence in quarterback Quinn Ewers’ ability to lead Texas to a national championship this season.
“The University of Texas is not just a playoff contender; this is a legitimate national championship contender,” McElroy declared.
“To win a national championship, I think you have to have really good quarterback play. Quinn Ewers has played remarkably well at times in his college career. Four examples in which he’s just looked like the best player on the field: Alabama in 2023, Alabama in 2022, Oklahoma in 2022, and then against Kansas State last year.”
“When he’s hitting those deep balls, this offense is almost impossible to defend.”
.@TexasFootball's offense is SCARY when Quinn Ewers is on 👀
Could Ewers take the #Longhorns all the way to the promised land?#HookEm | #ThisIsTexas pic.twitter.com/EFZRF6wN7v
— Always College Football (@AlwaysCFB) September 11, 2023
McElroy’s assessment of Ewers and the Longhorns is not without merit. Ewers entered the season as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy and is looked upon as a likely first-round NFL Draft pick.
With Texas now sitting at the #4 spot in the nation following the convincing victory over Alabama, their championship potential is undeniable.
In the showdown against Alabama, Ewers delivered a performance to remember, completing 24 of 38 passes for 349 yards and three touchdowns. His exceptional play carried the Texas offense, especially when the rushing attack was held in relative check.
The Longhorns rise in the rankings and the resounding win over the Crimson Tide have made it clear that Steve Sarkisian’s boys, led by Ewers, are a force to be reckoned with.
Earlier this week, Texas players were asked what ending Alabama’s 21-game home winning streak would mean.
Jahdae Barron said: “It would mean everything. It would be mean everything.” https://t.co/uGmUxJDDl0
— Laken Litman (@LakenLitman) September 10, 2023
What is your take on Ewers and the Longhorns?
Are they legitimate national championship contenders?
How would you like their chances against Georgia and Michigan?