Opening & Betting Line (≈0:00–1:30)

• Texas is a 10.5-point favorite at home vs. Florida (FanDuel). Hosts note this is essentially the same number they faced against Oklahoma, with the home field adding roughly three points.
• Tommy: The matchup favors Texas if they avoid self-inflicted wounds. Florida’s offense is unlikely to “figure things out” against Texas; Vegas appears concerned the SEC has sorted out Florida.
• Miller: 10.5 is fair. This may be Texas’s hardest offensive test so far, but also the weakest Power Four defense they’ve faced. Florida’s front four is solid; the back seven is not.

Core Debate: Arch or Sark? (≈1:30–21:00)

Both hosts land primarily on Steve Sarkisian, with a smaller share on Arch Manning.

Miller’s split (≈70–80% Sark / 20–30% Arch):

• Sark’s Texas offense has generally regressed statistically across most categories over his tenure.
• Sark chose both Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers.
• The best offense of the Sark era was under Casey Thompson; the best running game featured Tom Herman recruits (Bijan Robinson, Jonathan Brooks).
• Both QBs may have been somewhat overhyped. Quinn was more limited physically/by injuries and appeared to grasp the playbook better. Arch has the physical tools but struggles with processing (“in between the ears”).
• A coach should adapt the scheme to the personnel rather than forcing the preferred system. Sark has not done this enough.
• Under-center snaps have been particularly problematic for Arch (harder to dissect the defense; limited space when the center is beaten). Suggests limiting under-center to a small handful of trusted plays and living in shotgun/pistol.
• Last six games of 2025, Arch posted the highest QBR in the country while primarily in 10/11 personnel spread. Out-of-pocket throws have generally been a strength (until the recent interception).

Tommy’s view (≈65% Sark / 35% Arch):

• Sark is an elite offensive coach who has not put it together consistently enough. He built this roster.
• The offensive line, wide receivers, and portal running backs fit a spread offense better than the 12-personnel pro-style system Sark prefers. The current tight ends are not strong receiving threats (Nick Townsend lacks explosiveness; others have limited production).
• Arch’s issues: poor pocket management (stepping into pressure, leaving clean pockets), staring down receivers and failing to throw (missed open Amari Winston on the final interception; missed Cam Coleman on a sack), and not fully trusting his eyes, the line, or the system.
• Positive moments exist (e.g., the Cam Coleman touchdown on the move, the Ryan Wingo touchdown read). There are dialed-up winners that Arch is not converting.
• Sark has a responsibility both to develop Arch within the preferred system and to adapt when necessary to win now. Evidence shows what Arch does well (pre-snap recognition, athleticism, out-of-pocket play); the offense should lean into 10/11 personnel spread more heavily to build confidence over the next few games before potentially blending concepts later.
• Arch is the clear team leader; benching him would risk locker-room issues and is not justified on pure talent/availability grounds relative to the alternatives.

Shared points:

• There is a fundamental disconnect between what Sark wants to call and what Arch (and much of the current personnel) executes well.
• Talent is not the primary problem. Multiple receivers, most of the offensive line, and other pieces project as NFL talent. The answers exist; execution and scheme fit are lagging.
• Manning’s last name creates both advantages (NIL, expectations) and disadvantages (outsize scrutiny, e.g., national articles).

What Can Be Fixed This Season (≈21:50–34:00)

• Scheme/personnel usage is the biggest in-season lever. The running game has been average-to-bad since Bijan and Brooks left (line, scheme, backs, or combination). More spread looks should improve the passing game and create space for playmakers.
• Statistical contrast cited (via CJ Vogel / Inside Texas breakdowns): 10 personnel has been far more efficient recently than 12 personnel. Current snap share is heavy on 11 (~56%) and 12 (~31–32%), with limited 10 and 20 personnel. Recommendation: shift 10–12% of the 12-personnel snaps toward 10 personnel and modest increases in 20 personnel (two-back looks with Cooper, Brown, Niblett, Smothers, etc.).
• Best current playmakers to lean on: Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo, Emmitt Mosley, Jermaine Bishop, Derek Cooper, Hollywood Smothers, Malik Brown. Get them on the field more; the tight ends are not currently among the top 11 playmakers.
• Offensive line: Connor Robertson is a liability in pass protection against elite fronts (eyes/feet too slow; vulnerable to stunts). Dylan Sikorski at center and Lawrence Seymour at guard is worth exploring for better pass pro in a spread look. Kyle Flood is not the primary issue.
• Special teams (Jeff Banks): Disastrous so far (punt return/block issues, kickoff out-of-bounds, poor return production, penalties, missed tackles). Not fixable with a mid-season coordinator change. Play simple and boring the rest of the way (no tricks, kick down the middle, tackle well, limit big plays and penalties). Goal is net-neutral.
• Penalties: Offensive line is relatively clean (only five total on the line, some in garbage time). Problems are elsewhere (PIs, roughing the passer, unsportsmanlike, special teams). Clean those up and the team improves significantly in penalty rankings.
• Coaching changes (Banks, potential OC help next year) are more likely offseason items. Sark has a lot on his plate; a dedicated play-caller could free him for sideline management and adjustments (DeBoer-style). Next year’s QB (if Arch leaves) may fit Sark’s preferred system better.

Florida Preview & Keys (≈34:00–end)

• Must-win for both. Florida coming off blowout losses to Missouri and South Carolina; Texas off the Oklahoma loss.
• Key for Texas defense: Stop Jaden Baugh (#13). Florida’s offense is heavily dependent on him. In their four early wins he averaged ~7.2 YPC on high volume; in the two losses he was held to 72 yards at 2.9 YPC. Texas’s run defense has been excellent. Aaron Filo is not yet a consistent threat to carry the offense.
• Key for Texas offense: Protect up front and attack the secondary/linebackers. Florida’s back seven is a clear weakness (high passing yards allowed on the road). Arch should be able to find rhythm and volume (hosts project 250–350+ yards possible). Scheme adjustments (more 10/11/20 personnel) would open even bigger windows.
• Historical note: Texas is 6-0 after non-season-ending losses since 2023, winning by an average of roughly 15 points and scoring 20+ in the first half in most of those games. Bounce-back opportunities have produced strong starts.
• Florida’s secondary has been exploited by other quarterbacks; Texas has the receiving talent to do the same.
• Score predictions:
  • Miller: Texas 34–23 (covers).
  • Tommy: Texas 31–20. Expects some scheme adaptation but not a full overhaul; range of outcomes is wide (could be a comfortable win or a tight one depending on execution and self-inflicted issues).

Closing Notes

• Hosts emphasize the next three games offer favorable defensive matchups and a chance to install more spread concepts, build Arch’s confidence, and get the offense consistent before tougher tests (e.g., LSU at home).
• Call-in show and postgame coverage planned for later in the week.
• Standard CTA: like, subscribe, comment with score predictions.

Overall takeaway from the episode: The offense’s struggles are real but fixable in the short term primarily through scheme and personnel adjustments that better match Arch Manning and the current skill-position talent. Sark bears the larger share of responsibility as the play-caller and roster builder. Florida presents a realistic bounce-back opportunity if Texas stops the run and attacks the secondary.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chapter 1: Initial Reaction (0:01–1:12)

• 0:15–0:47 — Hosts call it a mental blow-up: blocked punt for a TD, pick-six, and a single Oklahoma TD drive littered with Texas penalties (roughing the passer that wiped out an INT, plus end-zone pass interference). Oklahoma’s only offensive points came on that drive.
• Clip-worthy: “If Oklahoma’s going to win this, they’re going to do it because Texas just blows up mentally. Well, guess what? Texas just blew up mentally.”
• Final score 27-24 described as a game Texas “can’t lose and you do lose.”

Chapter 2: Analyzing the Team’s Failures (1:12–2:42)

• 1:04–1:16 — Tommy: Oklahoma scored 13 offensive points at best; Texas handed them 14. Two ill-timed Arch Manning INTs + penalties killed Texas.
• Texas led by 10 at half despite not playing great football, then self-destructed late.
• 1:42–1:57 — Arch was fine for stretches but “arched” late with two terrible decisions (especially the second throw). He still had two strong TD drives in between.
• Offense can look explosive and on-time, then completely fall apart. Special teams + penalties made it impossible to overcome against a solid Oklahoma defense.
• Clip-worthy: “You handed them 14… You just had to keep your head on straight.”

Chapter 3: Coaching & Culture Critique (2:51–6:10)

• 2:51–3:39 — Matthew: Same script as previous Sarkisian-era losses. Texas is often the better team but shoots itself in the foot. Oklahoma did not beat Texas on offense or defense; special teams and self-inflicted wounds did.
• John Mateer (155 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT) did not “find himself”; he simply avoided disaster.
• 3:47–4:09 — Matthew’s first public statement on the channel that he does not believe Sarkisian wins a national title at Texas. Ceiling exists; sustained composure against top teams has never been shown (needs ~12 straight clean quarters vs. elite competition).
• Tommy: Fair questions. Jeff Banks was the worst coach on the sideline today and recently. Team should have been able to play “C-minus” football and win; instead played “D-minus.”
• Clip-worthy: “I don’t think he’s going to win a national championship here at Texas. That’s the first time I’ve said that on this channel.”

Chapter 4: Special Teams & Coaching (6:10–8:37)

• 6:55–7:42 — Strongest criticism aimed at Jeff Banks. Special teams have been abysmal outside of Ryan Niblett’s return ability. Blocked punt for a TD, onside kicks 0-for-2 recently, kickoff out of bounds early. “The only reason Jeff Banks is here is because he’s friends with Sark.”
• Arch made plays that kept Texas in the game; the loss was driven by the blocked punt + one major Raheem Biles penalty (and other miscues). Removing those turns it into a comfortable win.
• Tommy pushes back: the pattern keeps repeating (Tennessee onside kick/punt return example). Can’t keep saying “if you take away the two big plays…”
• Clip-worthy: “If that [blocked punt] doesn’t happen, we win the football game.” / “Jeff Banks has to go.”

Chapter 5: Arch Manning & the Offense (8:48–11:53)

• Arch should be further along given his talent and background. Two picks were bad; receivers lacked separation; play-calling didn’t fully fit him (“square peg in a round hole”).
• Sark’s system works when the QB and scheme match; right now it’s out of sync. Need to lean into Arch’s strengths (including his legs more).
• 10:33–10:58 — Frustrating that the conversation is already about mapping out which losses Texas can afford to still make the CFP. That shouldn’t be the discussion at this point.
• Pieces exist (explosives showed up, some excellent drives). Ceiling remains high, but confidence is limited that they will put it together consistently.
• Clip-worthy: “It feels like you’re trying to shove a square peg into a round hole.”

Chapter 6: Playoff Hopes & Outlook (11:53–13:44)

• Still believe Texas makes the playoff. Florida has been exposed; Texas defense should hold most remaining opponents to ~17–20 points.
• Problem is self-inflicted points that put a good defense in bad situations.
• Path exists: win the next month, enter November with one loss, potentially get hot. Noise is high; program needs to quiet it with clean football.
• Clip-worthy: “You just plainly have to keep your head on straight and make sure you don’t make the mistake… they keep making the mistake.”

Chapter 7: Quarterback Play & Systems (13:44–18:45)

• Arch must own the two massive late mistakes, but the entire offense (OL, WRs, scheme) is not where it should be. KJ Lacey would have taken 7–8 sacks in the same environment.
• Pass game had its best day of the season despite the result. Penalties under Sarkisian remain a chronic issue (high ranking in penalty yards; they turn into opponent TDs instead of FGs or nothing).
• Same pattern seen with Quinn Ewers: penalties + two big late mistakes.
• Disconnect between play-caller and personnel. Running game was strong late in the first half, then stalled. Arch is being asked to be someone he isn’t fully yet.
• Clip-worthy: “Go look at where Texas is ranked under Steve Sarkesian in penalties… You’re not winning football games when you rank in the 90s and hundreds.”

Chapter 8: Consistency & Discipline (18:45–21:45)

• Bye-week adjustments showed some positive offensive pieces. Must build on them immediately.
• Theme for the rest of the schedule: don’t beat yourself and you can beat everyone left. Most opponents probably max out around 20 points. Texas should be able to score 21+.
• Oklahoma’s only TD drive had multiple Texas penalties + a missed tackle. Could have held them to 9–13 points.
• Recurring issues from previous years under Sarkisian make this harder to dismiss as a one-off.
• Clip-worthy: “As long as you don’t beat yourself, you can beat everyone else on the schedule.”

Chapter 9: The Road to the Playoffs (21:45–24:15)

• 15–17 NFL-caliber players on the roster. Must reach the playoff.
• Possible “come-to-Jesus” moment that produces a run, or continued inconsistency. Ceiling still national-title level on paper; floor is first-round exit.
• Red River is weird and often produces unexpected results. Texas let a wounded Oklahoma team stay in the game.
• Next 5–10 games will determine whether Sarkisian is the long-term coach.
• Clip-worthy: “This can be a blip… or you become one of the toughest teams to play in the country.”

Chapter 10: Accountability & Next Steps (24:15–28:07)

• Likely 9-3 or 10-2 and a playoff berth if they clean it up; that still puts Sarkisian in the 8–12 range of coaches (rarely title winners).
• Arch made throws (including one to Cam Coleman) that few QBs can make. He will wear the late picks, but he was put in bad situations by earlier mistakes.
• Special teams must improve: directional punting, blocking the wedge, no out-of-bounds kickoffs. Gianni Spedicci missed a kick by a hair; decision-making more questionable than the miss.
• Response to this loss defines the season.

Chapter 11: Comparative Performance (28:07–33:48)

• Jeff Banks must go. Special teams have been a consistent liability outside of Niblett and a couple of past gunners.
• Mateer simply got the ball out quickly and avoided disaster (similar to Owen McCown vs. Texas previously). Respect for the approach, but Oklahoma still isn’t a great team.
• Elite defense + mistake-free offense is a viable CFP formula (Oklahoma last year). Texas has the defensive piece.
• Stats highlight: Texas 382 total yards to Oklahoma’s 238; 260 pass / 122 rush vs. 155 / 83. Eight penalties to seven, two turnovers (effectively three with the blocked punt). Oklahoma needed three Texas turnovers to win by a field goal.
• Clip-worthy: “They just can’t beat themselves. That’s all I’m asking for.”

Chapter 12: Rivalry & Future Outlook (33:56–41:51)

• Remaining schedule is winnable if Texas stops self-destructing. Florida, Missouri, LSU, etc., are beatable; Arkansas and Texas A&M look closest to “guaranteed.”
• Red River is the best/most unpredictable rivalry in the sport. Number-one teams have played in it more than any other game.
• Karma/wash framing: Texas got lucky vs. Ohio State earlier; this loss balances it. Not angry because they weren’t physically dominated—just shot themselves.
• Clip-worthy: “This is the best rivalry in the sport… two historic teams… something different about that game every single year.”

Chapter 13: Closing Thoughts (41:51–end)

• Process and cleanliness matter more than any single result. Willing to live with some three-and-outs or slow starts; not willing to live with blocked punts, drive-killing penalties, or late picks.
• If Texas simply stops putting points on the board for opponents and taking them off for itself, it should win every remaining game.
• Oklahoma executed the required script (special teams + defense + late mistake-free football from Mateer). Texas enabled it.
• Tomorrow: deeper breakdown video. Monday 7 p.m. ET: Florida preview with Florida guests.
• Final ask: like, subscribe, “poke them.”

Overall Takeaways for Clips / Articles

• Mental toughness and discipline remain the clearest Sarkisian-era weaknesses.
• Special teams (Jeff Banks) drew the harshest criticism.
• Arch Manning is not the sole problem, but he must clean up late-game decisions while the staff better fits the scheme to his strengths.
• Defense is elite enough to carry the team into the CFP if the offense and special teams simply stop gifting points.
• Next three games (especially Florida at home) are the immediate proving ground for whether this is a turning-point loss or the start of a larger slide.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Best bets (Tommy on screen; Matt mostly aligned)

Texas -7.5, parlayed with the first-half line. Tommy’s case: outside a defensive or special-teams score (the Tennessee issue he expects cleaned up), Oklahoma does not score more than 13. Last year’s offensive output vs. OU was Texas’s worst under Sark; he sees a better line, receivers, and back, plus more explosives. Texas scores at least 21 and wins by at least 8. OU cannot sustain drives unless Texas gifts short fields. First half: they find rhythm quicker than the Tennessee script (two brilliant opening drives, then the Arch pick and a collapse). Bye week, Sark’s best game plan of the season, and Arch trusting the line earlier. Expect up 5–10 at the half. Matt agrees. He does not have the full-game spread on his card but his score prediction matches it. He allows OU could punch first and Texas might miss a 4.5 first-half number, then still cover the game.

Hollywood Smothers over 47.5 rushing yards (both). The team that runs it best usually wins this rivalry. Smothers dressed as an emergency back vs. Tennessee, so he was already ~80–90% and should be full after extra weeks. Tommy: if he does not clear 47.5, Texas can lose. Matt: Sark-era Texas RB1 low in this game is 94 yards (Tre Wisner, 2025). Wisner went over 100 in 2024; Jonathan Brooks had a big day earlier. OU has never fully solved Sark’s wide zone the way Georgia has. Expect two explosives (15–20+ yards) and a path to 50, maybe 100. Smothers was not needed late vs. Tennessee once Texas was up 10 and CJ Baxter / the relief back was rolling.

Emmett Mosley over 31.5 receiving yards (both). Matt: he has cleared this easily in the big games (Ohio State; only one catch vs. Tennessee and still relevant). Forgotten behind Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman. Matt is done betting Coleman yards the rest of the year; yards go to Mosley and Wingo, touchdowns can still be Coleman. Tommy: under Sark, the slot or tight end has led Texas in receiving in every Red River game (DeAndre Moore, Gunnar Helm, Jordan Whittington). Sark opens the unexpected guy over the middle while safeties chase the outside threats. Mosley’s coming-out party was this game a year ago; the Ohio State over-the-middle shot is the template.

Cam Coleman anytime touchdown (Tommy only). They have hunted the same shot every week: Wingo on a mesh or deep over, Coleman on the post, trying to pull the safety. Ohio State: Arch overthrew it, possible trip, pick. Tennessee: overthrow, Coleman did not play the ball, Keon Lee pick. UTSA: Coleman free over the middle, Arch did not pull the trigger. Tommy expects them to hunt it early (screen or run to a 2nd-and-short, then the post) to take half the Cotton Bowl out of it. Matt does not have it on his card but sees the logic. He wants the Wingo screen to open the game (effective late last year, scarce this year) and the outside zone back specifically for OU and A&M, who slant late and lose gap integrity.

Shared lean: Texas is the far superior team. It would take a lot of self-inflicted damage for OU to steal it. Both want 10–12 play drives and some Arch run-game involvement (including the Ohio State opening-play concept from last year).

Caller: Burks

• Opens as a Michigan fan calling his program a dumpster fire; hosts note Texas lived that stretch.
• Longhorn Network: SEC Network absorbed it after the conference move. Residual content runs through On Texas Football / YouTube; the app is still where Matt watches Sark pressers because Texas does not post them on YouTube.
• Brand argument: Burks says Texas is the biggest brand (own network, ~$2.5B valuation gap, population, merch peak in the mid-2010s). Hosts put Texas top three worldwide, with Notre Dame and USC in the conversation, and note Texas stays in the news year-round across football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and Olympic diving (long conference streak).
• Cam Coleman: Burks is disappointed; mocks have him out of round one. Tommy: traits still get him drafted (George Pickens comp); he may simply be better in the NFL and should find a late-season rhythm. Matt: most impactful play so far is a fumble recovery through five or six weeks; he has not won the 50/50s (Tennessee ball was catchable). Still a first-round traits pick, now more like 18–26 than top 10, and he still leaves for the money.
• Arch Manning return rumors: both expect Dia Bell as the 2027 starter if Arch leaves (KJ Lacey the fallback). Tommy thinks Arch plays well enough over the next ~8 games to land in the top 10 or so; a return would signal he did not light it up or win a title, but money is not the issue and Mannings have used their college time. Matt always thought a three-year start was more likely than a one-and-done, expected this to be the leave year, and would not be shocked by a return. Dia Bell (Elite 11, NBA dad, “trust the process”) told Cover 3 he was fine sitting year one and another if needed. Matt: no other QB in the class pairs Arch’s measurables with strong play; Dante Moore is hurt and was not playing well; Trinidad Chambliss is the eye-test No. 1 but short; Todd McShay still has Arch No. 1 overall. Destination risk: Eli/Chargers history; hosts downplay a Jets/Browns block (Haslam relationship, possible Jets coaching change) but doubt the Mannings take a Chargers call if that pick is No. 1.
• Burks on 2027 Michigan–Texas: easy Texas win if Kyle Whittingham is still coach. He says Whittingham is trying to make Michigan into Utah, Underwood could leave at 5–7 or 6–6 or after a benching, Jason Beck likely gone, Devin Hamp is not portaling, and Michigan will not fire Whittingham after one year. Michigan has never beaten Texas; Burks will not convert if they lose again. He also calls OU as bad as or worse than Michigan, so Red River should be an easy Texas win at the Cotton Bowl despite rivalry noise.

Dia Bell vs. KJ Lacey (after a dropped Caden caller)

Hosts land on Dia Bell. Tommy: a little more horsepower, CJ Stroud / Dante Moore type, more of the NFL arm traits. Matt: Lacey is more athletic, but Sark will not let him run if he will not let Arch run, and Lacey is smaller. If Arch leaves, Sark still keeps Lacey as the 2027 backup because the play-calling transfers. Long term, Dia Bell can be a top-10 pick; Lacey probably cannot.

Other games

Alabama–Georgia (if it is played). Tommy leans Alabama. Kirby still has not beaten them in the regular season. Tuscaloosa mystique matters. Winner of Keelon Russell vs. Gunner Stockton becomes the No. 2 Heisman name Monday behind Jeremiah Smith. Weather/ground-and-pound would help Georgia. He does not buy the “DeBoer quits up 14” read; this offense looks more like the Dylan Johnson Washington version. He is picking against his alma mater. Matt takes Georgia: Russell makes too many mistakes; rain could turn it into a footing game.

Oregon–UCLA. Comp to last year’s playoff JMU win is only partial. Oregon’s defense looks undisciplined (eyes, linebackers), similar to early Raheem Biles worries at Texas, and UCLA’s run game can mess with that and shorten it to four quarters. Oregon still wins after the Oklahoma State wake-up and the USC win for Dylan Raiola’s confidence. Matt: competitive, UCLA loses by about 13–17, maybe a late Oregon score stretches it. A couple of UCLA names become known after this one.

Close / schedule

Like and subscribe. Postgame Saturday ~7 p.m. ET, grades video Sunday, Monday 7 p.m. ET with the Florida VOCFB crew. Sign-off: “hook ’em.”

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Show frame: No. 1 Texas is a 7.5-point favorite over unranked, 2-2 Oklahoma (opened 9.5, down two; up three from the offseason). Over/under 39.5, down sharply since open. Both hosts land Texas in the mid-20s, Oklahoma with one touchdown.

Red River keys (0:00–15:50)

Line and setup (0:17–1:30) Tommy has the spread in the 7.5–9.5 range and finds the total more interesting than the side. Market is pricing a Tennessee-style defensive game, with Texas having a little more offense but neither side expected to pull away. Matthew thinks Texas has the capability to blow Oklahoma out — they did last year without playing especially well — and can cover.

How the game plays (1:37–3:30) Tommy frames it like Tennessee: Texas has the paper advantages on offense, defense, and overall profile. The job is focus and not self-inflicting extra chances. Biggest key is jumping in front early. Oklahoma’s fan base is 2-2 and licking wounds; a 10–14 point lead can quiet the Cotton Bowl fast, the way Texas fans have felt when roles were reversed. Bad teams have won this game before. Oklahoma would not be the worst team to do it.

John Mateer plan (3:33–7:23) Matthew does not want edge rushers flying upfield. Goal is to make Mateer a pocket passer: he struggles reading defenses, gets sporadic, pats the ball with time, and double-clutched into a fumble at Georgia with a man open. Sacks are secondary. If Mateer throws 30 times from the pocket, Texas wins easily. Paths for Oklahoma are few. The worry is Texas shooting itself in the foot. One turnover is survivable; a 3–0 turnover loss probably is not, and it would still be close because the Oklahoma offense is anemic.

Tommy agrees: keep him in the pocket and make him beat you as an NFL passer. Expect overthrows and safety picks. Two things that can kill Texas are Mateer’s legs and Isaiah Sategna after the catch. Collapse the pocket everywhere except Michael Fasusi, similar to Tennessee’s line outside David Sanders. Rush lanes matter — no over-pursuit, no missed tackles. Early sacks or a pick and Oklahoma fans start chanting for the backup, which adds another layer. Do not hand them answers. Poke holes early at quarterback, line, and the offense as a whole.

Oklahoma weapons (7:24–9:01) Only real threats: Sategna and tight end Rocky Beers. Beers is the best tight end Texas has faced (Tennessee’s tight end is hurt; Ohio State, UTSA, and Texas State did not test that matchup). Linebacker/safety coverage is a real question. Oklahoma’s run game has been poor since Lincoln Riley left. Lloyd Avant and Xavier Robinson are Trey Weiner-type backs — fine, not scary. Clean game (turnover-free, penalty-light) and Texas wins by 10-plus. Better team in every sense unless Oklahoma’s line plays at a peak and Beers/Sategna hit one or two explosives. That path shows up maybe once in 100 simulations.

Rivalry history and Sark vs. this defense (9:02–11:45) When Texas is the underdog it usually overperforms; Oklahoma as a legitimate underdog has beaten Texas once in Matthew’s lifetime (the Dillon Gabriel year, about a 4.5-point dog). Tommy cites a stat that this is one of three times the No. 1 team has been less than a 10-point favorite over an unranked team; the other two favorites covered comfortably.

Sark has scored on this defense: last year was the worst offensive day and Texas was still efficient enough (Arch accurate, ran it enough); 30 in a loss, 49 in a blowout, 34–3. Offensive line is veteran and should hold up better against David Stone than against a twitchier Xavier Gilliam type. Do not give anything in special teams — that is what put last year’s game away, and Sategna can flip it. Tennessee special teams were the worst unit in that game. Oklahoma’s run defense is around 40th, lower than usual, with more openings.

What Matthew wants schematically (11:46–13:08) More outside zone. A&M and Oklahoma struggle with it because they slant the line late. Texas has lived in duo and inside runs this year. He wants Sark more versatile week to week, not locked into an offseason run menu. Up-tempo early to help Arch. Ryan Wingo screens two or three times — used late last year, barely this year, one nice gain on the final Tennessee drive. Oklahoma is still a legitimate top-12 defense. Expectation is a Texas win in a weird game.

Predictions (13:09–15:50)

• Tommy: 27–10. Oklahoma finds the end zone once. Arch needs a swagger moment — deep ball (Mississippi State to Wingo last year) or a sideline run like the one he slid and waved on a year ago. Ohio State comeback had the Wingo touchdown but no massive throw or run. Curious whether Sark alters the plan because Arch may not be the pure pocket executor every down. Comfortable win, more confidence in the offense leaving than arriving.
• Matthew: 24–13. Hopes the Oklahoma touchdown comes late so the “quarters without a TD” streak can stretch. When Texas is the better team, they usually win.

Clip window: early lead kills the Cotton Bowl (2:27–3:29); contain Mateer, don’t hunt sacks (4:00–4:38); Sategna and Beers are the only real threats (7:26–7:57).

October and future opponents (16:08–24:15)

Tommy’s month theme: stop the run (16:15–17:17) Oklahoma should be stoppable. Then Florida, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Missouri. Put the game on the quarterbacks. Trinidad Chambliss can handle it. Kamario Taylor and Austin Simmons will make plays. If the run isn’t slowed: Jaden Baugh eats, Kewan Lacy has a day, Mississippi State’s wide offense hits explosives, Missouri’s run game is a nightmare. Stop the run for five or six weeks and Texas can be on a six-game streak toward 12–0.

Matthew: score on bad defenses (17:19–19:38) None of the next defenses are top-25 units in his view. Florida’s front four is good, secondary is not. Ole Miss has one real difference-maker (Will Echols); take him out and there is little else. Missouri has not had defensive talent since the Cotton Bowl win over Ohio State. LSU is the best of the group and only fine, maybe top 20. After Oklahoma, one top-20 defense in the next six or seven games. This roster should be a top-10 offense. Thirty points a game plus this defense wins all of them. Kamario is scary only if he is perfect — Alabama showed the defense is horrid. Texas can hit 40 on Mississippi State (did last year, in OT; defense is the same level, offense better but not worlds better). No remaining team is flat-out better except a possible LSU debate later. Missouri shutting down Baugh and boat-racing Florida proved the point: take Baugh out and Buster Faulkner’s offense loses the gimmicks.

How those defenses will play Arch (19:39–21:14) Florida and Ole Miss will not be good on the back end. Front-seven athletes (Echols, Suntarine Perkins; Jaden Woods and Florida’s front) will heat Arch for four quarters and force quick, accurate throws and yards after catch. Six-man pressures leave five on the back end. It comes down to Arch getting the ball out faster and taking what is there. All of these defenses are attackable.

Road form (21:15–22:03) Trips to A&M, LSU, and Missouri. Two of three should be top-20 when Texas arrives. Road results have not been good (Tennessee this year, Ohio State and other SEC trips last year). Hardest games other than LSU are at home, which helps. He would not want the Swamp or Ole Miss on the road this year.

Austin Simmons (22:04–24:15) Missouri’s loss this weekend changed the framing. A path existed for No. 5 vs. an unranked, wounded Missouri. Now it can be a program game that sends Missouri toward the CFP. Jamal Roberts and the run game are real, and Simmons can beat you if he stands in and works through reads — unlike Boo Carter a year ago. Chambliss can beat you alone. Kamario can do incredible things with time. Simmons is the one getting too little credit. Matthew ranks him as the third-best quarterback left on the schedule behind the two Mississippi quarterbacks, and the one he worries about most because Missouri’s line is much better. Pure athlete scare ranking: Chambliss, then Kamario (40 on you any Saturday if you give him time). Kamario may have been nursing turf toe; Mississippi State gets a bye.

Confidence check-in, rest of schedule (24:26–37:45)

Scale is confidence Texas wins. Matthew corrects his Ole Miss number on air (he had said 7, meant 5.5).

Clip window: Arkansas 9.9 / “a bomb hit the stadium” (33:28–33:40); LSU at 5 because Leavitt can’t pass (32:06–32:20).

Comments (37:59–44:10)

David Keith Williams — short, quick, and let Arch run. Both agree. Designed quarterback runs 3–5 times from here. Sark has to marry his offense to what Arch does; pure “my offense” will not work. Presser line about playing to personnel applies. Tommy: Sark is building a 10–15 year NFL pocket passer, but right now Arch has to win Texas games. Legs build the swagger (45-yard run, break tackles, celebrate). NFL will design runs for his size and athleticism anyway — Drake Maye / Josh Allen template. Call Joe Brady and Josh McDaniels. Not using it in college is a disservice.

Raheem Biles spying Leavitt. Possible, and it lowers the LSU worry if the rush doesn’t overcommit and Leavitt escapes backward instead of through the pocket. Not a Chris Cole-level closer, but he can take the quarterback run game out. Caveat: Lane Kiffin is the second-best offensive mind in the country behind Lincoln Riley and will scheme things Texas is not expecting.

Cole Hutson. Ruled eligible; they have treated him as eligible since Tennessee. Not better than the current options. Dylan Sikorski is better. Lawrence Seymour is becoming a better option. Jaden Chapman’s summer in the program helped. Great locker-room and fail-safe piece, not a must-play. Debate exists on Hutson vs. Connor Robertson, or Sikorski to center with Hutson or Seymour at guard. Worth a look in rotation if Texas gets up. Tommy was nervous about how fast this line would jell; he still thinks the current group makes the strides down the stretch.

Tennessee: six sacks, why no quick game inside 10 yards. Same issue as Florida — Sark fell in love with the deep ball because space was there. Space 20 yards downfield does not matter if the quarterback is getting hit. Started well, so it was easy to stay married to it. Arch still has scar tissue from last year: happy feet, eyes down when the pocket collapses. Both need the middle ground.

Close: Back after the game Saturday around 7 p.m. ET. Next Tuesday, Florida guests, 7 p.m. ET.

Social / titles

• Texas is a 7.5-point favorite in the Cotton Bowl. Miller and Bresee both have the Horns in the mid-20s — and both think the only real upset path is self-inflicted.
• Mateer plan: do not hunt sacks. Contain him, make him throw 30 times from the pocket.
• Remaining confidence: Arkansas 9.9, A&M and Mississippi State 8-plus, LSU a 5. October thesis is stop the run, then score on defenses that are not top-25.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00–1:22 — Intro & Texas–Oklahoma line

• Texas –9.5 vs Oklahoma (opened ~4.5 in the offseason; jumped five points).
• Tommy: Fair. OU defense is good enough that you can’t hang a huge number on them. Georgia needed John Mateer mistakes to cover; take those away and it’s closer to a 14-point game, which matches the old line. Rivalry tax applies.
• Miller: Georgia was ~13-point favorite on a neutral. Neutral-field Texas ≈ that Georgia number. Line checks out.

1:22–5:13 — Tennessee recap (Texas 20, Tennessee 17 at Neyland)

• Messy, both D-lines ate the O-lines. Should have been controlled by half; penalties and miscues kept it close.
• OL worst game of the year. Left too much on Arch; he started 9-of-10, 127 yards, then the INT and it unraveled (indecision/hesitation that disappeared late last year is back).
• Bottom line they repeat: winning in Neyland is hard. Tennessee fans called the atmosphere one of the weaker ones they’ve seen and Texas still found a way.
• Toughest September slate in CFB; two massive wins (Ohio State + Neyland). Not pretty, but the W is the W.
• This bye is the last real jump. If they don’t look better coming out of it, fan concerns are validated — the product vs OU will look a lot like the rest of the year.

5:13–10:00 — Sark has to play to Arch, not the other way around

• Miller wants more designed QB runs (they’ve basically had one true designed run all year; the rest are Arch calling his own number). Arch likes it and is good at it.
• Team is not built for 20 dropbacks and 10–12 long-developing routes. Need more short game + Arch in the run game. Ego has to go; Sark’s “Mac Jones / exact scheme” QB is the third-stringer (D’Abel ≈ Bryce Young face-value).
• Sark’s job is win games at Texas, not maximize Arch’s NFL starter window. Let him color outside the lines like late last season (Michigan, A&M). Add Cam Coleman, Relique Brown, Hollywood Smothers, a slightly better OL and you have last year’s late-season offense.
• Bye week is the window to flip it, then blend schemes once Arch gets confidence. Upcoming Florida / Ole Miss / Mississippi State stretch will force them to outscore people; Florida’s offense is “impossible to fully defend.”
• September was about setting up the season (4-0 = great shape). October is about taking a stranglehold (4-0 in the next four and November looks manageable except LSU).

10:00–14:47 — Defense is elite; SEC pecking order

• Defense is “downright awesome.” Not tiptoeing: this can be a top-5 unit. Best defenses in the country right now live in Austin and Athens.
• From Ohio State halftime onward they’ve been nearly flawless except one late Tennessee drive. Muschamp’s calls have worked.
• Chat (Artistically Incredible): Texas top-3 SEC? Florida, Georgia, Alabama look better. Hosts: Alabama/Florida haven’t played real defenses. Texas would likely beat Alabama; Keelan Russell is more capable than Faison Brandon of carrying it. Florida offense is top-10 but can they score 30 on this Texas D?
• Georgia is the only team they haven’t seen play bad football. Perception vs reality: early-season narratives overrate the teams that “look good” and underrate the 4-0 team that doesn’t look like a No. 1. Worst case Texas is 4th in the SEC and still in the CFP; best case they’re the best team in the league.
• Most impressive two-win résumé in the country right now: 1-point win over Ohio State + road win at Neyland.

14:47–22:23 — Execution vs scheme; WR usage

• Struggles have largely been player execution, not Sark being a bad play-caller (he’s still top 5–6 in the country). If you want a new OC you’d better hire one of the four best.
• Counter: maybe they can’t execute this offense. Sark adapted late last year; he has to again.
• Simplify: Ryan Wingo short/intermediate, Cam Coleman deep. Cam has 20 targets, 208 yards, 4 TDs — all vs bad teams; zero TDs vs Ohio State/Tennessee. He’s roughly where AD Mitchell was at this point of that year but hasn’t had the statement game yet.
• Arch has to throw the post when the safety sits in the box; the INT was a great play by the DB, not a “throwing into double coverage every time” problem.
• Emmanuel Acho point they endorse: a lot of guys have to play up to reputation — Arch, Cam, both tackles.
• Suggestion from chat/hosts: 5–7 rollouts a game (Bo Nix-style, get him moving right). Easy to install.

22:23–26:36 — GRADES heading into the bye

They grade units only (not individual positions).

Offense: C-

• Arch: 7 TD, 3 INT, 63.5% (completion % close to what they want; on-target % is fine once you add drops). Zero rushing TDs in the official line because they won’t design runs.
• Cam Coleman underused vs good teams. Ryan Wingo leading the team in receiving — expected, most consistent WR. Emmitt Mosley 1 catch for 43. Tight end room has no receiving threat until Nick Townsend is back.
• Need more Relique Brown / Hollywood Smothers in the passing game out of the backfield.

Defense: A-range / “awesome” (they don’t put a letter on it the same way because they’re not nitpicking as hard). Top-5 potential. Secondary can still tighten.

Coaching: Mixed. Sark still a top play-caller, but has to adapt to personnel this week. Muschamp side is rolling.

26:36–end of grades section / into concerns — OL & center

• Center job should be up for discussion now that Cole Hudson is eligible. If he’s even 10% better, play him. Dylan Sikorski has been the surprise second-best OL and has center experience; could slide him and play Hudson or Warren Seymour at guard. Seymour has been the biggest bright spot among offensive transfers.

41:34–54:14 — Biggest concerns the rest of the way

1. Penalties — Miller’s No. 1. 124th in offensive penalty yards (bottom 15). Theme of the entire Sark era; hasn’t improved. You can out-talent three of four CFP opponents and then a back-breaking penalty costs the title. OL penalties are actually way down (3 this year, 1 on a starter vs 43 last year) — that’s a win. The dumb ones are PIs, special teams, and one of the dumber penalties they’ve ever seen. Sark already talked to Colin Simmons and Relique Brown.
2. Rushing: 3.6 YPC, 89th. Backs are getting extra yards after contact vs what Baxter/Wiseman would have gotten, but no explosives because the OL isn’t creating holes. Too much duo/inside zone; maybe go back to more outside zone. Need designed Arch runs to freeze LBs and open lanes. Explosive-play margin matters more than turnover margin for winning games.
3. 5.1 yards per play, 83rd. Live in the 30–60 range, not 80+. Explosives + Arch playing free fixes this.
4. Third-down defense (39th) — Tommy nitpicking. They give up some long third downs (Ohio State started 5-of-first-8 with 8.5 to go). 10% better and it’s a top-10 D. Looked better vs Tennessee.
5. OL “good but misses too much.” Will be a good unit, not a “they whiffed again” unit — but you may have to face Miami/Georgia/Notre Dame in a row in a title run. Have to be elite down the stretch.
6. Is the pass rush bailing out the secondary? If Colin Simmons doesn’t get home vs a sturdy OL (Florida is the one they name), are there more holes in coverage than we think? Coverage should improve; may not be an issue by the time it matters.
7. Special-teams mistakes / penalties putting them behind the chains in a one-score CFP game.

Overarching theme they keep returning to: Sark is trying to make Arch the 12-year NFL pocket passer. Right now Arch is “a golden retriever in a 750-square-foot apartment.” Play to the player you have for this season.

54:14–1:06:05 — Arch, historical comps, closing message

• Arch played through a foot that later needed surgery last year (which foot is still secret; they guess right foot from mechanics). Fully healthy now.
• They never thought Arch was Sark’s perfect scheme QB; D’Abel is. Manning name made people assume Mac Jones processing would appear immediately. He’s still going to be a long-time NFL starter; he’s just not that guy for this exact offense yet.
• Fun comps: Quinn Ewers 20 yards and in + Arch’s deep ball = the QB they want. Shane Buechele would have ripped this offense. Vince Young would have transferred. Sam Ehlinger understood it but couldn’t make the throws.
• Message they want people to leave with: You’re 4-0. Almost nobody else who played Ohio State and Tennessee is. This was probably the worst month of offense you’ll see. Sark is too smart not to go back to what worked late last year. You shouldn’t have to score a ton this year because of the defense.
• Guaranteed points exercise: Miller 31, Tommy 28. Florida is the one offense that might push 30.
• Playoff: Win OU and they’re a lock in their minds (don’t see 4-3 in the last seven). SEC could put 6–8 in. Georgia looks like No. 1 on the eye test until they play somebody good.
• Florida under the new staff is a “Nick Saban / Kirby Smart-level psychopath” situation — terrifying and a playoff team with a friendly remaining schedule. Proof Billy Napier was the problem.
• Sark tightrope: 90% of what he’s done since he got the job has been excellent. Calling plays and being HC is a lot (last guy to walk that rope had Jameis Winston). If there’s no title, the “just hire an OC” call will come.

Sign-off: Like/subscribe. Possible Thursday 6:30 p.m. ET show (no game, so no best bets); otherwise next Tuesday.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro (0:00–0:10)

Welcome to a special grading show on Texas’ win over Tennessee. Like/subscribe plug, then they jump straight into unit grades.

Quarterback — Arch Manning

Grades: C+ / C+

• Same grade as last week; that’s the season-long grade for Manning so far.
• Good enough to beat Tennessee and similar remaining teams; not good enough to win elite games consistently.
• Pocket presence still needs work — that was the one off day. Accuracy was solid; almost no complete misses.
• Two plays where he crossed the line of scrimmage and still threw (indecision). Cleaned it up later.
• First drive is the template they want most of the time, especially once the OL has more cohesion in November.
• A lot of the night was out of his hands. Not terrible, but he has to be better going forward.

Running Backs

Grades: B- / B-

• Hardest unit to grade — they didn’t get many lanes.
• Relique Brown was the main guy. Ran hard. One highlight: hopped, spun, dodged a tackle for 7–8 yards (would have been 1–2 last year) and helped set up a first down later.
• Ugly 3–4 yard runs when needed. Hollywood Smothers would have helped find extra yards; he’s out.
• Derek Cooper still a bit banged up as a freshman. Poor blocking around them. Performed pretty well down the stretch given the circumstances.

Wide Receivers

Grades: C+ / B-

• No dropped passes. Cam Coleman one really good catch. Ryan Wingo a couple of late plays. Emmitt Mosley one early catch, then nothing.
• Host 1: same C+ as Manning — solid, doing their jobs, nothing special. Explosive plays have to start showing up if Texas is going to jump.
• Host 2: bumps to B- because Wingo was exceptional — YAC, screen where he made guys miss and fought for a first down, plus a great block on Relique Brown’s first TD. Coleman’s one big play; wanted more on the deep ball (looked like he got tripped). Need more volume from Coleman on that type of play.

Tight Ends

Grades: C / C

• Almost an incomplete — one catch, barely involved. Blocking wasn’t as good as usual, but hard to isolate when the OL struggled.
• Nothing they did prevented good things; they were part of the same non-rhythm as the rest of the offense.
• Worst blocking performance of the season. Nick Townsend’s absence is felt — most complete player in the room. Amari Winston is talented but not the same blocker or as comfortable in the offense yet. Group is still talented; Townsend makes it whole.

Offensive Line

Grades: D- / C- (worst of the year)

• Host 1’s worst grade of the night. Connor Robertson and Brandon Baker had many bad plays. Robertson is a liability vs. athletic interior guys (same issue vs. Ohio State’s Kerry Wilder / Gilliam types). Baker: assignment/communication issues — one play he stood between two defenders and blocked neither, nearly got Manning killed.
• If grading individuals: Robertson and Baker F, rest maybe C+. Unit as a whole D-.
• Host 2: C- (initially said C+). Worst performance of the year by a comfortable margin. Fourth-quarter drive when they had to just run it was decent. Putting Jackson Christian in doesn’t fix the athleticism problem. Baker getting more confident and communicating better at guard is the more realistic fix.
• Still working out how they play together, especially on the road. Not overly worried long-term, but this can’t happen vs. Ole Miss or LSU. Tennessee’s DL is better than average on the remaining schedule (Oklahoma better if David Stone is healthy; Florida another tough one). Bye week to get communication and plan right. 4-0 now; can figure it out.

Defensive Line

Grades: A+ / A+ (better than A+)

• 10 sacks and they stopped the run. Nothing else to discuss.
• Every player was incredible. Murad Watson awesome. Zeno Mozilo didn’t show up much on the stat sheet but was great. Lance Jackson no sack but felt like three. Alex January and Hiro Kanu both in on sacks.
• No Justice Terry and they still did this. Terry is the highest-ceiling DT; this is what the unit can be — take over games even when offense and other units have issues.
• Colin Simmons: already 8 (or 9) sacks on the season. Preseason over/under was 4.5. Quick start this year vs. last year’s late surge. UTSA and Texas State already changed game plans because of him. Teams will keep doing that. Penalty (fake Johnson celebration) — if you get five sacks you should be allowed to do whatever as long as you don’t touch anyone. He understood it was wrong, put it behind him, and kept playing. No one has to police him.

Linebackers

Grades: A / A

• Justin Krier a little quiet. Raheem Biles not quiet — insane closing speed when spying Faison Brandon, sack, a couple TFLs. Fun player.
• Richie Miles: 13 tackles + late sack (huge). Krier second with 9 tackles + late PBU that was almost a pick.
• Unit they were worried about coming into the year. Depth still a question, but Kosiak-Paula made special-teams plays. Brad Spence is B+ or better whenever he’s on the field. Younger guys should get more run later.

Secondary

Grades: B- / B+

• Tricky. Good at times, picked on at others. A couple PIs. Weird TD where Bo Masco didn’t realize what was happening.
• Front was so disruptive that Brandon didn’t see a lot of open guys.
• Host 2: B+ because of how much that offense spreads the secondary and puts guys on islands. Masco didn’t look like the veteran. Grayson Littleton one of the best players on the team. Cade Phillips still improving. Jelani McDonald all over the field and made the play that sealed it.
• Kobe Black played (3 tackles) but Derek Williams Jr. was more visible (5 tackles) and is playing better football. Black may still be limited.

Coaching

Grades: B / B-

• Sark a little robotic on first down (too many handoffs). Play-calling overall good when the OL held up. Defense excellent. Special teams good. Execution lagged behind some of the calls.
• Penalties fall on coaches (Simmons one they let him wear). Have to clean them up a bit even if SEC play won’t be perfect.
• First drive worked; then OL collapsed and they had to adjust on the fly — not easy. Give Sark some leeway.
• Will Muschamp is a top-5 defensive mind right now; the change from Pete Kwiatkowski to Muschamp is paying off.
• One complaint: don’t go prevent when you’re dominating and up multiple scores. Let the guys pin their ears back and make the freshman QB more uncomfortable. This team is better when it attacks (same lesson as first half vs. Ohio State last year). Conservative isn’t their personality.

Big-picture / looking ahead

• Walked into what they consider the second-toughest place to play in the country. Neyland was packed from the jump. Found a way to win, now 4-0 heading into the bye, then a 2-2 Oklahoma team that’s reeling.
• Feels like the reverse of last year (Texas undefeated, Oklahoma 2-2 then). Don’t do what they did today (shoot themselves in the foot with OL/penalties) and Oklahoma probably can’t beat them.
• Same game plan next week: make John Mateer beat you. Don’t think he’s capable. Oklahoma OL is also attackable.
• Manning feels closer to being in a groove; pieces are starting to come together. Needs the OL to get there so he can play full-time clean football.
• Tuesday 7 p.m. ET: one-third-of-the-season recap, look-ahead, Oklahoma talk, any breaking news.

Quick grade card (both hosts)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Open / Vibe of the game (0:00–2:07)

• Weird, frustrating win. Texas “survives” a game that felt like it should have been 21-3 at half. Tennessee had ~130 yards of offense and one field goal until the late flurry.
• Final: 20-17. Texas never trailed after taking the lead back.
• Tommy: Mental toughness is real (same trait as Ohio State). They answered the punt-return TD, got the Cam Coleman chunk, kicked the FG, and didn’t give the lead back.
• Matthew: Never apologize for a road SEC win. Defense has been fine since the Washington game. Offense is the problem.

Arch Manning (2:32–6:29)

• 14-of-19, 201 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT, sacked 6 times.
• Matthew: 4–5 sacks on the OL, 1–2 on Arch holding it. First half and late fourth were solid; second/third quarters muddy.
• INT to Cam Coleman: not a great throw or decision; Coleman also mistimed the jump.
• Tommy: Started 7-of-8 and was ripping it. Throw to Jermaine Bishop may be his best of the year. Aggressive deep shot that Keon Lee picked — Tommy not furious at the decision (similar missed post last week). Line-of-scrimmage awareness is a recurring issue (three times in two weeks).
• Both: Hard to blame Arch when Arian Carter is in his face in two seconds. Protection and first-down play-calling were the bigger issues. Accuracy (~70%) was a positive.

Run game & Relique Brown / Hollywood Smothers (3:43–4:28, 22:56–24:15)

• Relique Brown: 17 carries, 67 yards (3.9 YPC), 2 TDs. Turned it on in the second half.
• Hollywood Smothers fully padded, moving pregame, “good to go,” then never played. Tyler Horka tweeted he looked gimpy at the end of warm-ups. Hosts puzzled why he stayed in jersey if he wasn’t going to play.
• First-down runs were a disaster — constantly minus-2/minus-3 against Tennessee blitzes, creating 3rd-and-11+ (first seven third downs averaged 11.8 yards to go). Same pattern as Ohio State.
• Late-game push was better. Both expect a “lean-on-it-late” run game, not an elite one. Need more explosives through the air.

Offensive line (8:11–11:05, 16:54–18:43)

• Dominated by Jim Knowles packages. Communication breakdowns (Brandon Baker twist/blitz — didn’t touch anyone). Connor Robertson is who he is vs. athletic DTs/DEs.
• Tommy: Line is still new. Ohio State game wasn’t a fluke of OSU playing poorly; they can be a good pass-protection unit with time. Bye week to clean communication before Oklahoma, then Ole Miss/Florida/LSU.
• Matthew: Upcoming schedule (OU, Ole Miss/Will Echols, Florida, LSU) will punish this if it doesn’t improve. Still found enough late to win — unlike last year on the road.

Receivers (3:03–3:42, 20:54–22:12)

• Cam Coleman underwhelming relative to NIL/preseason ranking (3rd-best WR on the team some weeks).
• Jermaine Bishop: 2-33, nice 29-yard sideline catch. One play drawn up for him. Hosts excited about the talent; don’t expect a huge year (maybe 250 yards?).
• Ryan Wingo / others mentioned in passing.

Defense — the bright spot (2:19–2:30, 11:35–17:16)

• No real concerns. Linebackers played well. Coverage unit (Grayson Littleton especially) held up vs. Tennessee’s 50-50 balls.
• Colin Simmons: all-time performance. 5 sacks (possibly 5.5 after regrade — would be a Texas record). Used as overhang/Jalen Walker-style rusher by Will Muschamp. One dumb personal foul (the “machine-gun” moment everyone on the sideline knew was a flag). He knew immediately and responded.
• Lance Jackson: best game of his career. If he plays at 80% of this going forward, Texas may have the best edge duo in the country.
• 10 sacks, 12 TFLs as a defense.
• Bo Masco PI flags: Tommy not overly concerned given Tennessee’s scheme and receivers (Mike Matthews, Darius Jackson). SEC refs liberal.

Penalties (11:35–15:00)

• 115 penalty yards. Hosts expect this team to live in the 60–80 range under Sarkisian — that’s who they are (ranked ~50th the last two years).
• Can’t have back-breakers like the Simmons flag (gave Tennessee a first down with a chance to put the game away). Holding/false starts are livable.
• Some flags (especially DPI) are Tennessee putting you in bad spots + SEC officiating.

Special teams (18:46–20:09, 25:10–25:55)

• Onside kick / drop-kick: Wingo isolated. Hosts would rather have Emmett Mosley, Dalen McCutcheon, Bishop, or even Relique Brown back there. Alignment issues. Not expected to be a recurring problem.
• Quay Moss punt return: four guys aligned to the return side.
• Fake-fair-catch / gunner-to-returner trick with Niblett/Bishop — creative from Jeff Banks, but the flag on the other punt return is more on the player (Niblett) than coaching.

Big-picture takeaways (6:29–8:11, 24:16–25:10)

• Team is talented and mentally tough but frustrating. Should have won this (and Ohio State) by more. Question hanging: can they play this sloppy and still win a title? That would still feel like unfulfilled potential.
• Offense has to find explosives. Arch will hunt them.
• Defense and toughness can carry them through September undefeated on the road in the SEC — something they didn’t do last year.
• Bye week, then Oklahoma. Line and first-down identity are the next boxes to check.

Close / upcoming content (25:56–end)

• Grades video dropping Sunday before noon.
• Tuesday 7 p.m. ET show: season-so-far recap + this game + look-ahead.
• Hook Em

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro & setup (0:00–1:54)

Tommy opens Texas Longhorns Live #120. Matt joining shortly. Special guest Tucker Harlin from the Tennessee channel for the first Texas-Tennessee meeting in 57 years and first at either home venue. Noon game at Neyland (not a typical night environment). Tucker will be there in person. Discussion of scheduling quirks (LSU-A&M night slot, potential Alabama-Mississippi State noon + College GameDay the following week).

Tucker interview: What we know about Tennessee after 3 weeks (1:54–6:00)

Tennessee has faced two relative layups plus Georgia Tech. Defense looks better than last year and more like a competent SEC unit. Offense remains a mystery — they have not had to open the playbook much and have leaned heavily on the run when they have a clear line advantage.

Preseason expectation: 8–9 wins and building toward 2027 with true freshman QB Faison Brandon. Still attainable. Circled games: Texas, Texas A&M (now looking more winnable), Alabama, LSU, and South Carolina on the road (bad history). Eight or nine wins plus a sneak-in CFP path remains possible.

Ethan Davis injury & tight end room (6:00–8:10)

Ethan Davis (converted WR) went down in the Georgia Tech game (limped off in the fourth). Big loss in the receiving game. DeSean Brame is now the primary receiving threat at TE. Blocking-oriented options remain (Trent Thomas, Drake Martinez). Room has talent but is unproven. Miles Kitzelman was more of a locker-room guy last year; Davis was supposed to be the upgrade.

Tennessee defense & confidence vs Texas (8:10–10:20)

Tucker feels better about the defense than the offense. DL more aggressive than expected. Linebackers (Arion Carter, Jeremiah T. Lander) rotating to edge. Secondary has not given up many big plays (Dajon Lane pick-six vs Georgia Tech). Has not faced a high-upside QB like Arch Manning yet. Secondary was poor vs UAB last year. Baptism-by-fire SEC opener for Brandon.

Tennessee offensive line (10:20–13:00)

Right side is the concern (right guard rotation between Donovan Haslam and Shane Mumarov). Jesse Perry (moved to RT) has graded well and was a bright spot last year. Left side more settled: Wendell Moy (when healthy) and David Sanders Jr. Tucker calls Sanders Tennessee’s best OL since Trey Smith — strong tape even against lesser DLs. Colin Simmons’ health is a major Texas concern; if limited, pass rush drops off (Zina Umeozulu next man up).

Faison Brandon’s legs & RB room (13:00–16:40)

Tennessee is less RPO-heavy than Texas and closer to its veer-and-shoot roots, but they have schemed more designed QB runs. Brandon is a natural runner (“runs like a deer”) and the best since Josh Dobbs. Expect some improv scrambles if the OL is challenged. Designed runs may be limited.

RB room: DeShaun Bishop is the known name; DeJuan Morris has emerged. Javon Gordon another piece (held out last week). Tennessee ran 45 times for 299 yards vs Georgia Tech and did not want to throw. Confidence if Texas takes the run away and puts it on Brandon is an unknown — Saturday will reveal it.

Fill-in-the-blank: Tennessee wins/loses if… (16:40–19:20)

• Loses if they let Arch Manning get in rhythm (run or pass). Tennessee has historically struggled with dual-threat QBs (Diego Pavia last year). Need to throw him off balance.
• Wins if they win the interior DL battle (Xavier Gilliam athletic, David Hobbs mobile) vs Texas center Connor Robertson and confuse Manning. Heupel’s offense is built to make life easy for the QB (screens, quick game, downhill run). Defense could make or break the game.

Names Texas fans may not know (19:20–21:00)

Defense: Xavier Gilliam (interior DL). Offense: Radarius Jackson (emerging WR3 with a few nice deep catches). Other weapons (Bishop, Mike Matthews, Braylon Staley) are already known.

Predictions (21:00–22:20)

Tucker: Competitive but Texas wins 27-21 (does not cover). Do not let the loss spiral like after Georgia last year. Tommy: 27-20 Texas. Four-quarter battle decided by a couple of late plays; leans Arch over Brandon. Matthew: 24-20 Texas.

Tucker plugs & history notes (22:20–25:00)

@TuckerHarlan on X (posted Texas-Tennessee history). General Neyland was a Texan (Aggie). Rick Barnes departure helped Tennessee basketball. YouTube: Mondays 8 ET with Jordan Binkley on Tennessee VOCFB; Tuesdays with Tyler Natuno; SEC show with Jackson Johnson & Andrew Miller. Vols Wire recruiting coverage; CFPHQ on SI. Hosting visitors this weekend.

UTSA recap & Arch Manning discussion (25:00–32:40)

Focus on Arch: Is he okay? Panic is understandable after pressure and some old habits returned when the OL got beat. Tommy’s view: last year’s poor OL forced bad habits; he reverted when he saw pressure Saturday. Trust the process — better OL and WRs around him. He made big progress last year; expect more this year. Not expecting lights-out vs Tennessee but a relatively clean, confidence-building road SEC game.

Matthew: Close to the 8–23 game “who he is” line for young QBs (Burrow/Luck/Young comps). Next 1–3 games (Tennessee, Oklahoma, Florida) will tell a lot. Still thinks a national title is possible even without a massive leap if pieces around him help. Drops (Ryan Wingo, Cam Coleman, Emmett Mosley) must be cleaned up. Colin Simmons health critical for pass rush. Derek Williams filled in well at CB.

Positive for Arch vs Tennessee: Jim Knowles likes three-high safety looks that give cushion. Decisive QBs who get the ball out beat that defense. If Arch hits the back of his drop and delivers, it could be a turning-point game.

Keys to beating Tennessee on the road (32:40–end)

Tommy

• Take the crowd out early. Neyland is one of the best environments; noon helps but explosives and turnovers will wake it up. Start fast (team superpower). No huge sacks or momentum plays.
• Run the ball: 30 carries, 3.5 YPC (~105–115 yards). Stick with 3–4 yard gains; set up play-action and keep Tennessee’s offense on the sideline. Exploit athletic but not massive DT group with gap schemes.
• Force Faison Brandon to beat you. Load the box, stop the run, keep him in the pocket. Make him complete 7–10 passes on multiple drives. Elite man coverage on wide-split WRs (Bo Masco, Grayson Littleton, Kate Phillips). Tackle well in space.
• DT dominance vs Tennessee’s interior (especially RG). Justice Terry or Nick Townsend if available. Slide Colin Simmons inside on obvious passing downs. Move numbers around pre-snap to confuse the freshman.

Matthew

• Capitalize on likely Tennessee turnovers (young QB + questionable OL). Score TDs, not FGs.
• Same run-game and “make Brandon beat you with his arm” emphasis. Not at the point in his career where you respect the passing game first.
• Trust the process for Arch: OL (Dylan Sikorski leap), Sarkisian getting WRs open, get the ball out. Personal comfort (Holly Rowe covering the game) mentioned as a possible off-field help.

Overall lean: Texas defense (Pete Kwiatkowski) should play championship-level football against a true freshman in a loud but noon environment. Championship-caliber unit, not just a big-game winner.

Show close: Live Tuesdays 7 ET (this one earlier for Tucker). Best bets Thursday. Postgame after Tennessee ~3:15–3:30 ET. Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsored open, like/subscribe ask. Texas wins an ugly one. Scoreboard looks like most good teams around the country on this Saturday. Offense struggled. Defense was excellent.

Defense sets the floor (0:25–2:00)

Defense held UTSA to 138 total yards. After UTSA’s first-quarter field goal: 24 yards on 34 plays, 0.7 yards per play (C.J. Vogel stat). Unit was “downright incredible” the rest of the way.

Compared to last year vs. UTSA, the fourth-quarter close-out via the run game was encouraging. Hosts believe this defense can win games in the SEC against good teams. Frustration with the overall product is real but “very explainable.”

Ugly Saturday context (2:00–2:30)

A&M lost. Oklahoma beat New Mexico by 8. Miami was pedestrian in the second half Friday. LSU and Ole Miss traded halves. College football is fickle. A 24-point win still leaves confidence in the run game and defense.

Arch Manning and the offense (2:30–6:40)

Vs. any real SEC team, this offensive performance loses. Arch barely completed 50%. Missed throws he has to hit:

• Airmailed Emmitt Mosley in the end zone by ~5 yards (wide open).
• Ryan Wingo corner-of-the-end-zone ball needed better placement.

Hosts hold Arch to a high standard because they see other QBs hitting those throws (Sam Leavitt dime to Watkins cited). Arch has not made that type of throw this year. He will have highs and lows; he is a roller coaster.

Pass protection struggled with delayed linebacker blitzes. Tennessee/Jim Knowles will copy it. Offensive line was the first unit to disappoint this season. Misses are now more predictable (overthrows) than last year’s dirt-then-10-feet-over-the-head pattern. Fixable, but he has to be better in Neyland.

Sark appeared to force the issue with Arch early, then leaned on the run to put the game away.

Run game and supporting pieces (6:40–9:00)

Five rushers over 39 yards. Derek Cooper returned after the Ohio State ankle/boot situation and led the team in carries — surprising. Michael Terry also got work. Run blocking was better than pass protection. Hosts can live with one off game after an emotional Ohio State week.

Kentucky-last-year vibes if this were a better opponent. Other than Arkansas, almost no one left on the schedule lets you play like this. Upcoming QBs (Faison Brandon, Kamario Taylor, Trinidad Chambliss) will make plays; Texas cannot box every offense for 60 minutes. Team will lean on defense + run game. It still comes back to Arch.

Cam Coleman: 4 TDs through 3 games. Wingo had the early splash. Mosley remains the big-catch guy. Never looked as out-of-sync as UTEP last year or the worst of Kentucky. Run game is the fail-safe.

Schedule and stakes (9:00–12:10)

Win at Tennessee and Texas is in great September shape, then a road stretch until Florida at home Oct. 17. Next two games (Tennessee, Oklahoma/Red River) are essentially playoff games. 5-0 makes 9-3 still a strong playoff path. Red River could be a 9-6 type game given both offenses right now.

Why Arch looked better as a sophomore / mechanics (12:10–15:20)

Limited sample vs. a bad/vanilla Mississippi State defense. Foot injury last year affected mechanics and comfort. Offensive-line scar tissue: feet parallel to the LOS is a “death sentence.” Needs cleaner pockets more consistently. Spencer Shannon drop noted. Pieces around him have to meet him halfway. Started 9-of-12 but the three early misses lingered. Playing more snaps this year; surrounding pieces less clean than 2024. He still has to be the guy who makes it good. How much he improves could decide a title.

Arch fifth-year talk (15:20–19:00)

Higher chance than most think. Manning family values foundation over money (Peyton/Eli senior years cited). D’Eriq King/Treyveon Henderson-type comments from Cover 3 last year: willing to sit another year if Arch returns. Depends who else comes back (Mosley, Siani, Brandon Baker). Title + No. 1 pick almost certainly sends him to the NFL. Incomplete season opens the conversation. Hosts still expect him to be a top-10 pick and a good NFL QB. Trinidad Chambliss (height be damned, elite in/out of pocket) is the other name they would take first; Baker Mayfield precedent mentioned. A 300-yard, 3-TD game at Tennessee puts Arch back in the No. 1 conversation. Browns/Jets at 1-2 would change the calculus. Dolphins or Cardinals would be cleaner landing spots.

Pass rush / Colin Simmons (19:50–21:30)

Only one sack. Not concerned in this specific game: after the first drive McCown rarely held the ball more than 2.5 seconds. UTSA took its foot off the gas. Will Henderson speed sweeps were the only real answers. Colin Simmons was on the sideline in a boot late — potential issue heading to a tough environment vs. a young QB. Justice Terry returning would change the pass rush. Tennessee will actually try to win, unlike UTSA playing not to get blown out.

Sark / “fire the OC” talk (21:30–24:30)

Jeff Brohm talk dismissed (Lincoln Riley-lite, all offense, no defense). Only Curt Cignetti turns B talent into A; everyone else (Day, Smart, Sark included) needs elite talent. Tonight was players not executing, not scheme. Arch must hit the layups. Every loss will bring “bench Arch” and “hire an OC” noise. Neither is the actual problem. KJ Lacey or a new OC does not fix what showed up. Hosts were not expecting domination or treating a sloppy win as sky-is-falling. Win at Tennessee and the season is back on track.

Close (24:30–end)

A&M, Oklahoma, and Alabama also had sloppy or poor performances. Getting wins is harder than ever. Coming off the Ohio State high, a messy home win is not shocking. Dust off and beat a good Tennessee team in the second-best environment in the country. “Battle of the UTs.”

Grades video dropping Sunday morning. Cross-content with the Tennessee channel this week. Back live Tuesday. Like and subscribe.

Core takeaways the hosts kept returning to

• Defense and run game are real and transferable.
• Arch’s inconsistency (especially overthrows and missed layups) is the variable that will decide whether this team wins a title.
• Tennessee film already has delayed blitzes and a blueprint; Neyland will punish sloppiness.
• Next two games are the real measuring stick.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro (0:00–0:24)

Welcome to another live Best Bets. This is UTSA week after the Ohio State win. Sponsor plug for Fandle; all lines presented by them. Ask for likes and subs.

Host Bets — Texas vs. UTSA

Emmett Mosley anytime TD (plus money) — Matthew (0:24–0:56) Mosley was the leading receiver last week. Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo, and the RBs already have TDs. Texas should reward him. “He’s got to score at some point… I think Texas will reward him with a touchdown.”

Tommy agrees: the offense was chaotic last week; Mosley came up big in the fourth. Dial one up (screen-and-go or similar) and let him get in the end zone.

Texas –30.5 — Tommy (1:39–2:31) “Clean the slate” game after a noisy week. Texas should run all over UTSA and find openings in the passing game. Watch turnovers (UTSA has forced some). Owen McCown is not Arch Manning; expect sacks. Tommy’s score: 52-13. Matthew: 45-10. Both see a comfortable cover.

Matthew adds: Texas should dominate both lines. UTSA has one sack on the year. Bigger line than Texas State because UTSA played a closer game last week.

Cam Coleman over 66.5 receiving yards — Matthew (3:09–3:38) Wingo popped in Week 1; Coleman was quieter last week. Expect a Wingo-style game (7-121-1 type). A couple of big plays should get him there and “cement himself as a Texas Longhorn.”

Tommy: Similar approach to Texas State—fewer passes overall, but when they take shots they put receivers 1-on-1. Coleman could get the number on one play.

Texas team total over 43.5 — Tommy (4:17–5:16) Texas should roll out of bed and score 24–28 most weeks. Hit the easy ones in the first half, then control clock with the run game. Want a confidence-builder before the road trip to Neyland. Possible 52-10 or 52-7 type of night.

Matthew: If you take the big spread you basically have to take the team total unless you think they pitch a shutout. He sees UTSA scoring 6–13; Texas has a real shot at 50.

Texas –17.5 first half — Matthew (4:42–6:05) Least confident of his tickets—they could come out sleepy. Even a C-game should produce two TDs + two FGs. “Two touchdowns and two field goals to me is doable even sleepwalking.”

Tommy: After a sloppy first half vs. Ohio State, they should come out attacking. Possible 24-3 at half, then peek toward Tennessee in the fourth.

Amari Winston over 2.5 receptions — Tommy (7:01–8:15) Nick Townsend is out (Sark said so today). Winston has been the reliable target in big moments (LSU, etc.). Give him a Gunnar Helm / Ja’Tavion Sanders-type usage before SEC play—target him 7–8 times. He earned it.

Matthew: Winston had a two-catch stretch that could have been four if not for drops. Expect 4–5 targets; three catches is realistic. He’s the main receiving threat among TEs with Townsend out. Spencer Shannon is more of a blocker; Michael Masunis is TE4 right now. Best blocking TE room Sark has had.

Relique Brown over 63.5 rushing yards — Matthew (9:23–9:53) Reverse of Week 1: Hollywood Smothers popped then, Relique popped last week. Expect a big run similar to Smothers’ Week 1 explosion.

Texas over 196 rushing yards — Tommy (9:54–10:23) UTSA gave up 177 to UTRGV and 289 last week. Dominate on the ground, get the OL and RB room confidence before SEC play. Could go for 220.

Relique Brown anytime TD — Tommy (10:25–10:46) He ran tough outside one early mistake. All three backs (Brown, Smothers, Derek Cooper) could score; Tommy takes Brown.

Caller: Burks (Michigan fan) (10:48–23:31)

• Congratulates Texas on beating Ohio State. Says Sark needed a win over a ranked non-SEC team. Ohio State fans making excuses; Texas defense gassed OSU and executed three long late drives (15, 13, 12 plays).
• Hosts: Both teams made mistakes; Texas early, OSU late. Score was about what you’d expect. Fourth quarter was Texas grinding them down, not luck.
• NIL / recruiting discussion (New York Times report). Ohio State listed #1 but Texas is close. Texas treats the portal like an uncapped pro league—pay 20% more to get a 30–40% better player. Not a high-volume portal team, but high-end portal additions. Push leftover money to premium positions (LT Ishmael Kamara, Easton Royal, etc.). Take ~10% off publicly reported NIL budgets; Texas probably $39–45M range, not the $48–55M floating around. Agents inflate numbers.
• Michigan tied with Indiana in the report. Burks salty about Michigan’s NIL vs. Texas. Hosts: Larry Ellison is ROI-minded; Texas has more “irrational” oil-money donors who just want to win. Michael Dell is one piece; a lot of unnamed oil money. Need donors who stay out of day-to-day business (has been a Texas problem before).
• Michigan–Texas comparison: similar public-school athletic departments. Texas is “the Michigan of the South.” Next year’s game in Austin could be huge depending on how both seasons finish (possible Arch/Manning or Kamario Taylor vs. Bryce Underwood). Night vs. day game TBD (CBS/ESPN rights).

Other Games They Flagged (23:37–end)

South Carolina vs. Mississippi State Tommy’s favorite “barn burner” candidate. Camario Taylor vs. LaNorris Sellers—“the most athletic quarterback battle we’ve ever had.” Turning-point game: one team becomes a dangerous 5–7, the other a 7–8 win surprise. Could decide Shane Beamer’s trajectory. Historical comps floated: Charlie Ward, Michael Vick, Lamar Jackson vs. Deshaun Watson, Cam Newton (none quite match the dual-athlete tools). Mississippi State 3-0 and looking the part; over 4.5 wins already in play if they win this one. Makes Texas’s SEC slate tougher if State is 7–5 or 8–4.

Florida vs. Auburn Must-win for Florida if they want a playoff path (Matthew picked them in). Offense/skill and OC are good; defense is the question. Hold teams to 21 and they can ride Jaden Baugh. Both fan bases are looking for a reason not to believe in the current coaches.

Ole Miss vs. LSU (night game in Oxford) The marquee. Everything you want in a CFB game. Tommy leaning LSU defense but respects Trinidad Chambliss in big moments. Sam Leavitt injury talk treated as possible Kiffin mind games (last year he put 20–30 guys on the report and most played). Landon Clark is fun but not Chambliss’s twitch. Question Leavitt’s downfield throwing. Texas will see a lot of high-paid QBs this year (Chambliss, Taylor, Leavitt, Jackson, McCown, etc.)—one reason 10-2 is a reasonable landing spot.

Housekeeping / Outro

• Live every Thursday 6:30 p.m. ET (Best Bets + calls).
• Tuesdays 7 p.m. ET (recap + next-week preview).
• Postgame show after UTSA, likely 11–11:15 p.m.
• Like, subscribe, Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hosts: Matthew Miller & Thomas “Tommy” Bresee Show: TexasVOCFB / Voice of College Football Sponsor: FanDuel Length: ~45 min

0:00–0:36 — Open

• Welcome to Texas Longhorns LIVE, episode 119.
• Like/subscribe. Brought to you by FanDuel.
• Hook: Texas beat Ohio State on a 21-point fourth-quarter comeback. “Needed every single one of them.”

0:36–8:33 — Ohio State recap: mental makeup, Arch, cleanliness

Tommy’s main takeaway

• Different team mentally than the last couple of years.
• Not that past Sark teams were weak, but this one can play poorly for 2½ quarters and still pull itself back up.
• Arch Manning is the catalyst — “galvanizing player,” “heartbeat.” When he gets going and the emotion shows, the sideline feels it.
• Compared the first 2½ quarters to recent Oklahoma and Georgia losses that were effectively over before the fourth. This time they got out of it.

Matthew

• Arch was pressing early — trying to make up for last year’s Ohio State game, carrying extra pressure. Pattern: press, then flip to “I just don’t give a shit” and play free. That second mode is the one they need going forward.
• Cannot put themselves in 10–0 holes on the road at Tennessee or A&M. LSU may be the only remaining team at Ohio State’s level.
• Ball security was the Sark talking point and the real issue: drops + balls on the turf + fumbles = 7 times the ball hit the ground when it shouldn’t have. Lucky to win; Ohio State helped them by building too big a lead and then giving it back.
• Tale of two halves. Now they know what they’re capable of. Can they string the second-half version together for four quarters?

Talent vs. self-inflicted wounds

• Offseason thesis: if they don’t hurt themselves, they’re remarkably hard to beat.
• OL: best pass-blocking unit in the country right now (PFF). That unit should be there the rest of the year.
• Season stats cited: 8 drops (lead SEC), 4 fumbles (only 1 lost).
• Arch’s box score looks good but he left 80–100 yards on tape by not ripping open throws. Sark “outdid Matt Patricia” most of the night; Arch didn’t execute what was there.
• Question hanging: does Sark need to incorporate more QB run to get Arch into games?

Physical identity

• Most physical Texas team under Sark. That’s the biggest long-term positive from the win.
• Biggest win in 15+ years — maybe since walking off the field vs. USC in the Rose Bowl national title game. “Never take that back. Not many people get to beat Ohio State.”
• One remaining “demon” is Georgia (possible SEC title).

Psyche / proof of concept

• Ohio State may have needed the win more for CFP math (tougher remaining 10). Texas needed it for psyche.
• After this, no opponent on the other sideline feels unbeatable — Ohio State, Georgia, Notre Dame, Miami.
• Goal-line confidence (Washington + Ohio State) is something you only get by doing it.
• Will Muschamp hire validated on both sides. Penalties: 47 yards on 6 flags all season, tied for 4th-fewest in the country — a multi-year problem that looks fixed.
• Team feels aligned, playing for each other, focused on little things. Proof they can win these games even when down in the fourth; one or two Arch plays can flip a night.

8:33–9:14 — Injuries

• Nick Townsend: knee, sounds like bone bruise. Status TBD (swelling). Confident he’s ready for Red River; likely avoids the worst-case.
• Compared to Trevor Goosby timeline.
• Justice Terry: turf toe, injured pregame vs. Ohio State. Unique talent; injury history is a concern. NIL discussion if he only plays a couple games a year.

9:14–12:09 — Rankings / national picture

• Viewer: “Ohio State wasn’t No. 1.”
• Hosts: you still have to pick someone. Only real argument over Texas is Georgia (looks completely dominant).
• Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin and Indiana vs. North Texas did not look like No. 1 material. North Texas outgained Indiana.
• Texas has the best résumé right now. Early rankings are goofy.
• LSU argument exists but Clemson looks like a 6–6 team (already replaced QB).
• Matthew’s personal board: LSU 5, Ohio State 3 — did not drop Ohio State far. AP dropping them to 6 is aggressive. Still one of the best teams in the country once pieces around Jeremiah Smith settle.
• Ohio State young skill (Kari Wilder, Chris Henry Jr., Legend Bay, Brock Boyd) — fans want more snaps. Mental mistakes come with youth; 10–15% more usage makes sense, not a full dive.
• Ohio State’s next real stress test is USC (Iowa first; Iowa offense likely capped around 13).

12:09–31:00 — Knowns and unknowns after Ohio State

KNOWNS

1. Will Muschamp was the right DC hire
   • Offseason worry: guy who hadn’t called plays in a while, possibly outdated / too aggressive.
   • Ohio State guys on a previous show: “You cannot play man vs. this offense.” Muschamp did the opposite in the second half — doubled down on man after zone got torched.
   • “That’s who I am. If zone isn’t working, fuck it.”
   • Multiplier for physical players and mental discipline. Front played with an edge after the half. If they play second-half defense all year → top-5 unit.
   • Personnel for man: Grayson Littleton and Bo Masko are NFL-caliber (12-year careers). Cade Phillips is teetering (got cooked by Brock Boyd). Warren Roberson mixed. Two of three CBs + good safeties = you can play man vs. almost the rest of the schedule. Only real man-beaters left: A&M (Horton/Craver if hot) and LSU (Kiffin scheme more than personnel; Levitt’s throwing has been poor).
2. Portal running backs are the real thing
   • ~31 carries, ~126 yards vs. Ohio State — a little over 4.0 YPC. That’s all you need.
   • Vs. Georgia in recent years they averaged ~1.8 YPC. If they get 4.0 vs. Georgia they win those games.
   • Hollywood Smothers: 3–5 yards is his birthright; falls forward.
   • Relique Brown: change of pace; 3.1 yards after contact vs. Ohio State as a smaller back. Want more of him out of the backfield.
   • Night-and-day vs. last year’s Wisner/Baxter group. Last year’s backs weren’t good; this is what good looks like. Changes the offense.
   • Add healthy Derek Cooper soon → title-level backfield. Path exists to be a run-first, defense-first team with Arch as facilitator.
3. Sark is all the way back
   • Dominated Patricia. Receivers wide open all night (Brooks Austin film). First play: if Emmitt Mosley holds the block, Relique is 1-on-1 with Earl Little.
   • Last year Sark had to pour energy into defense. With Muschamp hired, energy is back on offense.
   • Scheme change: no longer purely outside zone (Georgia used to just put big bodies on the edges and dare them). Variety is there.
   • Very few people call better offense. If Arch sees it and executes, “genuinely can’t be stopped.”
4. Offensive line can hold up
   • Two first-round tackles + decent interior.
   • Pass pro: A-minus. Run blocking: B-minus. That’s enough.
   • Connor Robertson is the weak link (Kari Wilder beat him 2 of 5 snaps). Indiana’s DL is the one remaining unit that could really stress the interior.
   • Eyes in the right place this year (Landon Tangwell point). No first-team penalties through two weeks — huge vs. recent years.
   • Not a façade. Lean into this group instead of game-planning around it.

Hope / in-between (Tommy): Arch will get better at playing the position. Elite athlete who will start in the NFL because of physical tools, but he has to beat teams from the pocket. Josh Allen comp: the running is the cherry, not the cake. Want athleticism as an add-on by year’s end, not the thing he needs to get going every week.

UNKNOWNS

1. Arch Manning’s college ceiling
   • We know who he is. Unknown is whether he reaches the ceiling in college (might take an NFL sit year).
   • Frustrating tape: sees the open guy, doesn’t rip it. Will throw into double coverage downfield with total trust, then miss a wide-open crosser. Brooks Austin clip: early Mosley miss by 3 yards with a clean pocket; late Mosley hit in a tighter window while getting hit.
   • ~16–18 starts is usually “who you are” in college. Consistency by Oklahoma (or the game after) is the checkpoint. If it’s not there, this is the version they live with.
   • Can win a national title with end-of-2025 Arch. Can be an all-time team if he hits college ceiling.
   • Prescription vs. UTSA: tell him to rip it. Even if it produces a turnover, get him trusting his eyes from the pocket.
2. WR hands
   • Ryan Wingo: written off as an elite guy. Will drop TDs; 3–4 last year, already 1 this year. Good player, not that player.
   • Cam Coleman: Auburn drop issues followed him. Ohio State drop was a hard ball (70% Arch / 30% Coleman), but NFL guys make harder ones. He’s paid to bail his QB out.
   • You can win a title with 1–2 drops a game if they aren’t in must-have moments. Offense around them is better now so they can recover. Expect “good enough,” not elite hands.
3. Self-inflicted wounds
   • 3 turnovers (could have been more) vs. Ohio State, 4 fumbles on the year (1 lost), 8 drops. Penalties are fixed. If drops and fumbles go away they’re a nightmare.
4. Depth pieces
   • Freshman LBs (Tyler Atkinson, Kosiak Paula, Rocky Cummings) need 10–20 snaps in mid-tier SEC games (Florida, Mississippi State, even Tennessee) because Cryer and Biles can’t play 60+ elite snaps every week.
   • Jonah Williams didn’t play Saturday; will need him later.
   • Safeties / two-deep development. Don’t need them to win a title, but they open the CFP/SEC title snap count.

31:00–34:29 — Viewer comments (mid-show)

• Colton Vosick: 5–10% of snaps, neither host remembers seeing him. Expect this is his last year at Texas (transfer). Possible SAM usage in 12-personnel / Ohio State-type games while they develop younger guys.
• “At least Texas schedules primetime games.” Hosts want the committee to reward teams that play these games.
• Melvin Siani + Brandon Baker: both likely top-100 in 2027 if they declare. Siani late 1st/early 2nd; Baker mid-2nd/3rd (guard). Both making $1M+; should come back unless they’re top-10 picks. Good problem if a bunch of fringe guys vault (Byron Murphy, Rod Watson, Alex January examples). DT room is deep even if January/Watson leave.

34:29–43:04 — UTSA preview

Line: Texas −30.5 (FanDuel). One point higher than Texas State was. Tommy: fair, maybe even cover. Vegas scuttlebutt that Sark wants to lay it on early.

UTSA snapshot (2–0)

• QB Owen McCown — surprising he’s still there; looked like a lower-P4 transfer candidate a couple years ago.
• RB Marion Peterson: 10 carries, 100 yards (10.0 YPC).
• WRs DJ Allen, AJ Wilson, McKay Anderson — all with a TD, all over 120 yards.
• Defense: LB Brandon Tucker Jr. (18 tackles) is a player. One team sack all year. Texas cannot allow a sack.
• UTSA beat Texas State 31–26. Gave up 177 rush yards to UT Rio Grande Valley and 289 to Texas State. Run game should feast.

What Texas needs to show (mental test)

• After the Ohio State high + off-field noise (Sark/Holly Rose, Arch/Holly Rose — “done and over with”), this is a business trip.
• Wyoming-after-Alabama 2023 is the cautionary tale: emotional road win, then tied 10–10 in the fourth vs. a team they should handle.
• Championship teams handle 11 of 12 of these. Don’t mess around with UTSA; mess around with Mississippi State or home Florida if you’re going to mess around.
• Goal: 21-point first quarter and walk from there.
• Clean: no turf (drops/fumbles). Ryan Niblett muff that hit him in the facemask cannot happen. UTSA has 4 INTs and some forced fumbles — that’s how they stay upright.
• Get young guys live reps: Tyler Atkinson, Rocky Cummings, Jermaine Bishop (3–5 touches — they’ve been trying to get him the ball in space; PI on the deep post vs. OSU, hot screen week 1). Michael Terry in short yardage (Cooper likely held until Oklahoma/Tennessee). D’Abel if available.
• Jermaine Bishop Jr. and Tyler Atkinson are the two specific “watch” names. Atkinson a little behind on processing/speed; once it clicks he should be a high-level LB.

Predictions

• Tommy: 52–13 Texas. Cover. Lean into OL/run game and man coverage. McCown is not Brad Jackson (legs were the problem vs. Texas State). No turnovers, no big penalties, no massive drops → feel great heading to Tennessee.
• Matthew: 45–10 Texas. Also covers.
• Stay healthy. Tennessee will force a lot of running; defense may play 65–70 snaps Saturday. Need the full roster for Neyland.

43:04–end — Closing comments / recruiting class / outro

• Viewer on the recruiting class foundation: Grayson Littleton, Cade Phillips, Lance Jackson, Justice Terry, Jonah Williams, KJ Lacey, Nick Townsend, Emery Winston — starters or two-deep. Others developing into difference-makers by year’s end. Hosts agree.
• Modern roster construction: veteran top line (juniors/seniors/portal) + advanced sophomores/freshmen in the two-deep. Texas’s young tight ends and Townsend/Winston look further along than most.
• Show notes: Tuesday 7 p.m. ET weekly. Betting show Thursday 6:30 p.m. ET. Saturday postgame ~11–11:15 p.m. ET after UTSA.
• Like, subscribe, Hook ’em. FanDuel.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Historic comeback win. Position-by-position grades after the game.

Intro

0:00–0:18 Welcome to grading the Texas Longhorns. Historic comeback. Straight to QB.

Quarterback — Arch Manning

Grades: Tommy B+ | Matthew C+ Range they land on: C+ to B+

0:18–3:42 Tommy (B+): Incredible down the stretch. Deserves all the respect. Take the drops away and you’re looking at ~270 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs. Could have been 350–370 with how many guys were wide open. Sark scheme got people open consistently. Missed Spencer Shannon (scrambled instead), Ryan Wingo over the middle, Emmett Mosley over the middle. Film room with Sark and A.J. Millwee won’t be kind on accuracy. Adjusted completion % around 68% after drops. Numbers are fine; leftover tape issues.

Matthew (C+): Tale of two halves. First half pretty bad. Down-to-down play still an issue. Explosive throws he will hit — Cam Coleman catch (Coleman should have just run under it instead of the weird almost-dive; it was a C throw). Wingo drop would have been another explosive. Trouble reading the middle of the field; outside is easy, checkdowns come quick. Has to rip the middle more.

Fourth quarter: A++. Best fourth quarter by a Texas QB since Vince Young. Better than any Colt McCoy fourth quarter they remember.

Big-play guy who can make all the throws, but the “boring QB stuff” isn’t all the way there yet. If supporting cast doesn’t drop balls, the conversation is glowing with only nitpicks.

Running backs

Grades: Matthew B- | Tommy B+

3:42–5:22 Matthew (B-): Really good three quarters. First quarter rough because of Relique Brown fumble. Can’t give the ball away in a game like that. Lucky to lose the turnover battle and still win. Without the fumble it’s A-. Hollywood Smothers and Relique Brown really good down the stretch. Relique’s physicality in the second half — running people over — was fun. Reminiscent of Super Bowl snap-over-the-head moment; demons exercised.

Tommy (B+): Two big mistakes — Relique running out of bounds on 3rd down (should have put his head down for the extra yard and avoided 4th down) and the fumble. Outside of that, lights out. Smothers consistent all day. Relique’s physical runs late. Duo they went out and got in the offseason made the difference.

Wide receivers

Grade: Both C+ (Matthew could have gone C-)

5:22–7:50 Lowest unit grade of the game. Did not help Arch enough.

• Cam Coleman: Has to run under the ball or the play cannot end in an INT (one-in-a-billion play, but still). Made three big catches down the stretch.
• Ryan Wingo: Ball hits him in the hands. Always drops the 40–50 yard / TD plays, never the 2–3 yarders. Had the TD catch later.
• Emmett Mosley: Face ran through on the Relique fumble (60/40 Relique’s fault, but Timmons in his face immediately). Biggest WR down the stretch.

All three of the “big three” had a massive mistake. They bounced back enough. Unit going forward is still elite if they clean up the small stuff. Ohio State took Coleman and Wingo away at times.

Tight ends

Grades: Matthew A | Tommy A-

7:50–10:09 Best unit on the team.

Matthew (A): Blocked really well. Emery Winston second-leading receiver + the biggest 4th-down conversion of the game (biggest play of the game). Needs to lose 10–15 lbs to become a real receiving threat, but he’s a good player and will play a lot. Spencer Shannon one drop (6-7 guy has to catch it when he’s going to get hit). Nick Townsend injury sucks — he would have taken some of Winston’s snaps. Georgia-level blocking. Receiving can improve but they don’t need it.

Tommy (A- only because of Townsend injury): Three guys who can block at an incredibly high level. If Winston is 40 yards a game that’s plenty. Will need TEs more as teams key Coleman/Wingo. Worst-case Saturday: elite blocking, not a ton of receiving — liveable with the weapons around them.

Offensive line

Grades: Matthew A- | Tommy A

10:09–12:02 Matthew (A-): Only negative is first-half interior push. After that, good. Pass pro amazing — two sacks (one on OL, one 100% on Arch getting flustered). Fine vs Ohio State. Will face better DLs (LSU, others) but they’ll have more reps.

Tommy (A, on a curve): Didn’t think they would push Ohio State off the ball at any point. They did in the fourth quarter. Drives of 15, 13, and 12 plays don’t happen without interior push. 3.4 YPC including sack yardage. Pass pro very good against a group that can create problems even if not elite. Two weeks in, as good as they could feel about this unit. Solid OL is all they asked for in the offseason to win a title.

Defensive line

Grades: Matthew B+ | Tommy B

12:02–14:42 Matthew (B+): Good, not great. Driven off the ball for a quarter and a half, then turned it around. Colin Simmons a lot of pressures + caused the hold that essentially ended the game. Several uncalled holds (Ian Jafar on Sayin, another on the broken play). Run-fit and tackling concerns at times.

Tommy (B): Group that can take over games. Simmons sack + 2 TFLs + ton of pressures. Hero Kanua and Maraud Watson lived in the backfield in the second half. Occasional run-game spurts because Muschamp plays light boxes. A+ performance is six sacks and taking over a game — maybe next week at Tennessee vs a young QB. Lance Jackson quiet except one sack; need a second-side guy besides Biles looping up. Expectations for a 5-star second-year guy were 6–8 sacks and flashes; hasn’t shown that yet. Ethan Burke-level is acceptable, but Jackson has a higher ceiling.

Linebackers

Grades: Matthew A | Tommy A-

14:42–17:00 Matthew (A): Justin Cryer and Raheem Biles really good. Cryer good on blitzes, getting to the QB, everything. Coverage vs RBs (hip flip) will be interesting later. Great portal find from FSU tape that didn’t scream star.

Tommy (A-): Cryer the best defensive player on the field. Communication late after all the halftime adjustments. Three or four plays in a row in Sayin’s face — throwaways and dirted balls. Creative with LBs in pass rush. Biles quieter but no insane mistakes. Brad Spence flash plays. Freshmen not ready for this moment; the three who played were high-level. Weakest group on paper in the offseason, best of the three levels vs Ohio State. Should get better as Atkinson and freshmen get comfortable (Atkinson on the field at LSU).

Secondary

Grades: Tommy B- | Matthew C+

17:00–22:00 Tommy (B-): Playing Jeremiah Smith is the hardest calculus course in college — every test is curved. One of the 10 best WRs who will ever play. Dominated by Smith. Arthur Smith moved him to the slot a lot (hard to double without taking a safety out of the middle). Other OSU WRs: 2 catches, 24 yards. That’s enough. Devin McEwen, Brandon Ennis, Chris Henry Jr. are high-level but not Cornell Tate / Mecca Bucca. Alignment issues + young guys (Warren Roberson, Cade Phillips) making mistakes. Bo Masco didn’t give up a catch. Feel pretty good given the caliber of WR they faced.

Matthew (C+): Early Muschamp feeling it out with different man coverages — didn’t work. Cade Phillips got beat the most. Bo Masco best of the group. Warren Roberson: physical tools, but he is who he is — penalties, biting on routes. Third-and-long double move by Smith before the sticks; Roberson bites, lucky he only made the tackle by kicking Smith’s legs (could have been a flag). “I’ve seen enough. Need freshmen/sophomores instead.” Jelani McDonald insanely quiet (second-leading tackler but not involved in coverage). Second half better; started putting a safety over the top of Smith. Next time: let Smith get his and shut everyone else down (McEwen is a 3rd/4th-round talent). Indiana will probably do exactly that with their man coverage.

Coaching

Overall staff: Tommy B+ Jeff Banks A | Kyle Flood B/B+ | Muschamp B-/C+ | Sark same range as Muschamp

22:00–28:09 Matthew: Banks’ position groups (TEs + ST) great. Flood solid. Muschamp first-half adjustments too slow, second half good. Sark: run Arch early. Get him hit, get him out of the pocket. He loves it and he’s great at it. 3–5 designed “just go do what you want” plays in the first half. Michigan game last year — once he said “fuck it” and stopped trying to be something he’s not, he was great. Vince Young documentary parallel: they incorporated what he liked instead of forcing him to be something else and won a title.

Tommy (B+ staff): Second-half adjustments boxed a really good Ohio State staff. Fourth-down call and early Smith plan were issues (everyone has the Smith problem). Biggest piece moving forward: balance between letting Arch be Arch and running the offense. Arch missed open guys that would have made Sark look better. Give him the middle ground early so he’s comfortable, then the offense can take over. Best version of the offense is the clean pocket version Sark wants — that’s not the QB they have right now. By Game 12 it might be. Third-string QB is probably the closest thing to the point-guard / Mac Jones type Sark’s offense wants. Arch missed spring; reps will help both the spectacular and mundane.

Outro / plugs

28:09–end Like, subscribe, drop your grades. Back Tuesday 7 p.m. ET and Thursday 6:30 p.m. ET. National Live 365 show tonight 8 p.m. ET (they’ll let others recap this game and talk the insane weekend). Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Opening / Tone (0:00–2:30)

Thomas welcomes viewers after laptop issues delaying Matt. Frames the game as one “every other Steve Sarkisian team loses.” Texas trailed 23-3 (or 20-3) entering the fourth and won 24-23.

Matt calls it possibly his favorite Texas win as a fan. Both agree it was a “weird” game full of random plays that likely wouldn’t repeat: Cam Coleman tip-INT, Relique Brown first-half fumble, Ohio State missed FG after already making a longer one.

Fourth-Quarter Arch Manning (0:40–2:10, 6:20–7:30, 24:50)

Arch was “downright incredible” in the fourth. Two huge fourth-down conversions:

• Escapes pressure (Collier-Weiler), finds Amari Winston for the first down.
• Deep-middle throw to Emmitt Mosley that keeps the drive alive.

Hosts said all week Texas needed special fourth-quarter Arch. He delivered after a shaky first half in which he missed some middle-of-the-field looks (Mosley, Wingo) and held the ball too long on some sacks.

Once it clicked after the fourth-and-8, it snowballed. Second-half Arch was the best player on the field.

Running Game & Skill Players

Hollywood Smothers and Relique Brown were Texas’ two best offensive players. Smothers is the unofficial offensive MVP; the line bullied Ohio State’s interior on the winning TD run so thoroughly Smothers “could have walked in.”

Brown atoned for the early fumble. Mosley led Texas in receiving and made the critical fourth-down catch plus a key block (though one play he got his face run through). Ryan Wingo dropped an early TD but bounced back with big catches including a score.

Offensive line was “incredible” in pass pro and run blocking. Several sacks attributed more to Arch holding the ball than protection failures (Kenyatta Jackson sack cited as mostly on Arch).

Defense & Second-Half Flip (3:30–5:00, 12:20–14:20)

Ohio State dominated the first half; Texas dominated the second. Julian Sayin had a poor second half (overthrows, behind throws; one near-INT if Jeremiah Smith doesn’t get a hand on it). Colin Simmons disruptive with a sack and late holding call. Third-down defense improved after a rough start (Ohio State finished 6-of-14 after starting 5-of-8).

Will Muschamp’s adjustments on Jeremiah Smith were a big talking point—only real Smith win came when Warren Roberson bit on a play he shouldn’t have. Bo Masco strong in man vs. Smith. Grayson Littleton and Kate Phillips had solid reps.

Hosts credit Muschamp not just for scheme but for the fight/will in the locker room. “Something different about this football team.”

Sarkisian vs. Ryan Day / Arthur Smith (13:20–19:20, 24:40)

Sark “had every answer” after a messy first half. Play-calling after the early fourth-down misfire was strong; bubble screens that frustrated fans set up the Mosley slant that put Texas inside the 5. Late, Sark leaned on the run game when he had time.

Ryan Day/Arthur Smith criticized for taking the foot off the gas. Notable conservative punt from Texas’ 39 with ~11:55 left in the third (fourth-and-4 range) instead of going for the kill shot. Earlier fourth-down decision also second-guessed. Hosts say once Ohio State “turned the light switch off,” they couldn’t turn it back on—classic Day-team complaint.

Ohio State kicker miss in a huge spot (Georgia fans reminded of Noah Ruggles). Super chat joke: Day spends millions on receivers and “Arby’s coupons” on the kicker.

Randomness & “What Ifs”

• Coleman drop/tip that became a pick.
• Brown fumble.
• Wingo early drop that could have made it a statement win instead of a comeback.
• Ohio State FG miss.
• Multiple Texas fumbles/loose balls (three hits the turf mentioned late).

If two or three of those go the other way, it’s a comfortable Texas win or a blowout loss. Hosts refuse to use them as excuses.

Historical Context & Psyche

Largest Texas comeback since 2007. First win over No. 1 since 2008 (Red River vs. Oklahoma). Comparison to the Georgia game in Austin a couple years ago (similar 20-3 type hole, Texas fought back but fell one play short then; this time they finished it). Red-zone demons vs. Ohio State from recent years exercised on the final smash-mouth TD.

Win is a massive locker-room and confidence boost. “Springboarded.” Team now “scares people when they get off the bus,” which hasn’t been true under Sark.

Ohio State Evaluation

Still a very good team, but more questions than hosts expected even when OSU was up 20. Weapons beyond Jeremiah Smith and Bo Jackson look thin (Devin McEwen and Brandon Inniss “fine,” not special). Defense more Patricia scheme than star power this year—no obvious first-round pick on that side; Riley Pettibon budding. Contrast drawn to last year’s Texas talent margins (Wingo vs. Coleman type differences matter in these games).

Ohio State 1-3 in last four games vs. quality (Indiana, Miami, Texas). Playoff path conversation starts now: can 9-3 get in if losses look like this? Hosts think yes unless there’s an embarrassing one.

Looking Ahead

Next: UTSA. Hosts want a first-half burial to prove mentality (contrast to sleepy Wyoming game after Alabama last year). Then Tennessee (Peyton/Brandon? “kid in phase on Brandon” who can give fits), later Mississippi State, Missouri, etc. One bad loss at the wrong time and Texas is the 9-3 team doing PR stunts again.

Georgia still picked over Texas if they played tomorrow, but Texas and Georgia viewed as the two best teams right now. AP likely bumps Texas to 3 or 4.

Broader Saturday Context

Oregon loss to Oklahoma State, Michigan over Oklahoma (John Mateer not impressing vs. good defenses; completion % vs. quality competition ~60%; fifth-year QB who still can’t set feet and throw over the middle). Texas fans get a clean weekend plus Sixth Street.

Closing (35:00–end)

Enjoy it. Grades and nitpicks (turnovers, Arch middle-of-field reads, first-half third-down D) come tomorrow/Tuesday. “Hook ’em.” Like and subscribe.

Clip-friendly moments

• Arch fourth-down escapes and Mosley throw (~1:00, 6:20)
• “Every other Sark team loses this game” open
• Smothers walk-in TD / OL bullying
• Day punt / “turned the light switch off”
• Largest comeback + first #1 win since 2008 stats
• “Sark was the best person on the field in the second half”

Nitpicks saved for the grades show: early turnovers, Arch hesitation over the middle, first-half third downs, a few safety communication issues. Everything else they called solid-to-excellent once the second half started.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Best Bets 2 LIVE CALL-IN SHOW Hosts: Matthew Miller & Thomas “Tommy” Bresee Sponsor: FanDuel Show open: ~00:00

Last Week’s Record

• Tommy: 4-1 (argues Derek Cooper injury cost him a 5-0; “would have gotten in the end zone”)
• Matthew: 3-1
• Consensus: Week 1 was easier to read. This week is about winning the game, not scheme tells.

Host Bets

1. Tommy — Texas 1H −1.5 (~00:50)

Sark has said all week Texas has not started fast vs Georgia/Ohio State and has played from behind. OSU (Arthur Smith) will feel out Will Muschamp early; Texas has more urgency. Expect a lower-scoring first half that opens later.

Score lean: 14–10 or 13–10 at half.

Matthew agrees: first quarter / quarter-and-a-half is feel-out time. Texas should jump it.

2. Matthew — Emmett Mosley over 34.5 rec yds (~01:55)

Coleman and Wingo will be the keys. Matchup: Mosley vs freshman Jay Timmons is one of the few mismatches. Mosley was underused vs Texas State. Also likes Nick Townsend / TEs (Spencer Shannon shout).

Tommy: almost a must-hit. Attention on the outside forces the middle. Lean 35+ receiving.

3. Tommy — Texas team rush over 103.5 (FanDuel ~114) (~03:27)

Opened 99.5 earlier; still likes it barely over. Won’t look pretty (Texas State spit-and-sputter), but Sark has to stay on the run. Expect 20-yard bursts from Hollywood Smothers, Relique Brown, and Arch. Avoid sacks and they land 115–120.

Matthew: Texas went over this vs OSU last year and should have stuck with it. Combined rush vs Georgia in those three games likely didn’t even hit this number. Between-the-tackles was dead Week 1; stretch zone, read option, Wingo end-around should work better.

Matthew add-on: If they hit this number, they win pretty easily.

4. Matthew — Hollywood Smothers over 38.5 rush yds (~05:40)

Surprised the number is that low. Needs 75–95 total yards (rush + rec). Projects 45–55 rushing plus checkdowns.

Tommy: two or three one-on-one vs safety/corner = explosives for Smothers and Brown. Expected closer to 50. Market still figuring the Smothers/Brown split after Week 1.

5. Tommy — Arch Manning over 1.5 passing TDs (~07:15)

Run game and red zone not fully fixed. Scored on 6-of-7 red-zone trips Week 1; hard to repeat without Arch’s arm. One chunk to Wingo/Coleman, one goal-line (Coleman, TE, or touch pass like last week). Slow start, then two passing TDs down the stretch.

Matthew: Arch probably needs 3 total TDs (any mix of pass/rush) for Texas to win.

6. Tommy — Cam Coleman anytime TD (~08:40)

That’s why they paid him. Hunt Devin Sanchez (future 1st-rounder, but early for this caliber). Even if he’s not wide open, they will keep throwing it. Could also be a decoy to move the safety and hit Wingo/Mosley opposite.

Matthew: Have to feed No. 1. Same logic as OSU forcing Jeremiah Smith.

Shared bet — Arch over 27.5 rush yds (~11:50)

Both on it. One 20–25 yard scramble plus a few 5–10 yard keepers. Sacks are the risk; OSU has pocket-collapsers, not a Dylan Stewart/Colin Simmons-level edge. Need designed QB runs (power from gun — Josh Allen comp), read option early to freeze Kenyatta Jackson and the edges.

Last year: first-half Arch stayed in the pocket and Texas struggled; third/fourth quarter when he created, they moved. More confident now. NFL-style lock if sacks stay short.

Jeremiah Smith / Coverage Chess (~09:59)

Tommy: Smith could match his career Texas receiving yards in the first half alone. In OSU’s few losses the last 3 years, Smith still went 100+ and scored — everyone else disappeared.

Two paths:

1. Key No. 4 or he wrecks you.
2. Let Smith be Smith (120 and a score) and erase Devin McEwen / Chris Henry Jr. / the supporting cast.

Matthew: Texas tried doubling Smith twice and got killed by Carnell Tate / Emeka Egbuka. This supporting cast is not that. Fine starting doubled and adjusting. Question of the night: can McEwen do what Tate/Egbuka did?

Depth / Usage Notes (~13:57)

• Derek Cooper out (ankle). Interested in Michael Terry, James Simon (bigger, short-yardage), Nick Townsend, Jermaine Bishop.
• Bishop: one catch could be 60 and a score.
• Need more diverse run game: Wingo/Bishop end-arounds, not just Smothers/Brown on 3rd-and-3 inside.
• Last year’s dagger: Arch pick. Can he stay clean?

Other Game: Michigan vs Oklahoma (~15:47)

Line swing: Michigan −4.5 pre-Week 1 → Michigan −2 after kickoff → Oklahoma −5.5/−6.5 now. 8–9 point Vegas move.

Tommy: Aggressive, but Michigan cannot play that poorly again. Whittingham / Jay Hill too good. Still: no QB = nothing vs Brent Venables. Bryce Underwood not there yet. Hard to see Michigan scoring more than 13–14.

Matthew: Underwood’s two Hail Marys = the whole player — one sails out the back, one 65 yards off back foot while getting hit. Talent without the intricacies. “This is basically his first year.” Wouldn’t be shocked if he’s benched / not at Michigan next year; Tommy Carr next up, but not a savior.

Matthew lean: Michigan +points because John Mateer throws picks in big games and the Hill defense played well.

Tommy: Close to selling Underwood stock; next stop is Group of 5 if it keeps going.

Caller: Caden (~19:13) — OSU/Georgia heat

Long anti-Arch rant: national title / Heisman / “chosen one” talk, Georgia INTs, OSU sacks (4, “could have been 10”), Cotton Bowl relief appearance did nothing.

Prediction: Ohio State 56–7 (up from 45–7 last year). Texas’ only score late or with the backup.

Hosts make him take the wager: if Texas wins, Caden comes back next Thursday and apologizes to Arch. If OSU wins, hosts stop calling Arch “the chosen one.” Caden accepts.

Hosts’ pushback: oddsmakers have Texas better than 50%; they’d call it a toss-up. Caden: “We ain’t losing.”

CFP / G5 / Big Ten structure (~mid-show, ~36:00)

• Don’t give playoff spots to teams that can’t win a title. Iowa “will never win a national championship the way they currently play.”
• G5 only if truly one of the 12 best (Boise + Ashton Jeanty year = fine; JMU last year = no).
• Alternate: top 11 + one G5.
• Big Ten schedules are tiered: USC/Oregon/OSU/Indiana bloodbath vs Iowa/Penn State soft slates. 10–2 Iowa or PSU is not a playoff résumé; 9–3 OSU on that schedule might be a better team. Committee may not see it. ACC/Duke title-game mess cited as the “leagues are too big / schedules are broken” problem.

Ohio State guest segment (Sean) (~39:20)

• Goosby will play (played Week 1).
• Matt Patricia’s D looked great vs Ball State; Wingo/Coleman/Arch are a different animal.
• Secondary questions: Jermaine Matthews late 2025, Devin Sanchez was a bad nickel last year (may be a good outside CB). Nickel not solidified.
• Agrees Mosley vs Timmons is a real look.
• If Patricia out-coaches Sark like last year, talent gap may not save Texas. Sark has to be better.
• Texas offense much improved: OL, Smothers/Brown >> Weisner/Baxter, Coleman >> last year’s Wingo role, Wingo slides to Livingston spot, Arch +1 year.
• OSU D lost three “aliens” (Arvel Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs — all top-13 picks). Christian Alliegro (Wisconsin) is the Styles-ish Mike; Peyton Pierce next to him. Not the same exotic flexibility. Riley Pettijohn (true soph) will play 30–50 snaps; surprise he wasn’t named a starter.
• Linebacker room comfortably OSU’s (Pierce, Alliegro, T.J. Alford/Pettijohn) even if Raheem Biles is the best single LB in the game. Tight ends lean Texas.
• Texas secondary Week 1: minor issues (Cade Phillips beat, miscommunication, new Muschamp system + Brad Jackson scrambling). Not a panic for Tommy; Matthew more worried about Phillips on Smith — wants safety help. Trusts Grayson Littleton most in man.
• Muschamp vs Kowalski: more man, more islands, light boxes (5–6). Explosives vs the run are the tax. Chess match of two NFL coordinators + Sark/Muschamp.

Atmosphere: Not Death Valley every Saturday, but this one will be elite. Will Anderson (2022 Bama) called DKR the toughest environment he’d played in. Second-tier with OSU/Georgia; can hit the top tier. CDC renovations, cheaper experience, parking. Hottest/loudest in 20 years — 2006 OSU game comp. Kickoff heat: “100 degrees at 6:30 p.m.” Austin as a city plug.

Small coaching edge to OSU, not massive.

Caller: Daryl (~51:09)

Picking Ohio State until Texas actually beats this matchup. “If not now, when?” Home, QB advantage, even coaching, Ryan Day 1–4 as an underdog — still needs to see it.

Replace OSU with anyone but Georgia (maybe Oregon) and he’d pick Texas. That’s the 1% problem.

Stakes: win and you’re a lock for the CFP / top-4 seed (bye’s value debated after how byes have gone except Indiana). Lose and the mental edge flips to OSU/Georgia the next time, because conditions will never be this good again. Fan-base trust in Sark is on the line until a title or this win.

Loved Coleman-Arch chemistry Week 1. Floor: 10–2 and in the field. Arch should be the Heisman favorite.

Metrics they want Saturday

• Arch: ~65–67% (74% vs Texas State won’t repeat vs this D)
• Arch’s legs a factor (20–30 scramble/design)
• Smothers + Brown in the pass game more than Jaden Blue was in the Cotton Bowl
• Colin Simmons finally gets a sack vs OSU (has one vs almost everyone else)

Totals / scores

• Market ~49.5 — Daryl thinks way too high. Lean 21–17 type game.
• Tommy: 27–24 Texas (in between). Slow first half, QBs find it late, maybe not over 49.5.
• Matthew: first to 30; 31–23 Texas. Heat + weapons = it opens. Louisville–Ole Miss pacing comp (slow, then scores).

Style: Texas can win ugly or in a 42–35. Arch slinging it all night is the worse path.

SEC vs Big Ten this weekend (~1:01:00)

Three games. Hosts: SEC 2–1.

• Lean Oklahoma over Michigan
• Lean Mississippi State (small favorite after Minnesota opened −2.5/−3.5; Kamario Taylor hype after the “throw of the year”)
• Texas–OSU is the narrative game Vegas: SEC projected 29–1 in non-con after this week; only loss ticketed is Arkansas–Utah.

Kentucky joke from Daryl: “We’ll be No. 1 in the SEC next week.” Hosts love Will Stein; Matthew buying Kenny Minchey. Stein telling fans to sneak beer in = “that’s my coach.”

Close / Upcoming (~1:03:34)

Next opponent breakdown: UTSA (Tommy likes them as an experienced G6 club with one of the better coaches at that level; CFP dark-horse lean from him).

Cadence:

• Tuesdays 7 p.m. ET — last game + next opponent
• Thursdays 6:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. CT — Best Bets
• Postgame Saturday ~11 p.m. ET (earlier if a blowout)

Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro / framing (0:00–1:20)

• 118th edition of Texas Longhorns Live (VOCFB).
• Title question: is this the biggest regular-season game of the Steve Sarkisian era?
• Sixth Ohio State–Texas meeting in ~25–26 years. Garrison: college football fans should be excited just to get this game.
• Sark comment referenced: could draw close to 20 million viewers — “NFL-type regular-season game.”

Betting line (1:21–2:14)

• FanDuel: Texas -1.5 (flip of last year’s Ohio State -1.5 at kick).
• Pearson/Tommy: pick’em on a neutral field; home in Austin justifies Texas as a slight favorite. No problem with the number.
• Consensus: two of the best teams in the country; either side as a pick’em is defensible.

Texas offense vs Ohio State defense

Ball State takeaways for OSU D (2:16–3:31) Garrison: almost nothing translates. Ball State is not Texas. Secondary barely heard from (good). Happy nothing went wrong; this is a completely different animal. Would have preferred a Texas State-type opponent.

Corners / Cam Coleman & Ryan Wingo (3:32–5:55)

• Texas hosts ask: lock Devin Sanchez on Cam Coleman and let the rest handle Wingo, or protect Coleman first?
• Garrison: Sanchez will not travel. Trust Jermaine Matthews on the other side; Dominic Kelly (Georgia transfer, 6-2) as a option. Traveling one corner doesn’t neutralize Wingo.
• Garrison publicly walked back earlier skepticism of Wingo after last year’s 100+ yard game and a strong Texas State outing. Hands, routes, confidence all looked better. Wingo or Raheem Biles were Texas’s two best players vs Texas State in his view.
• Hosts: Wingo entered the year as a trusted No. 2, not a No. 1. That tape raised the bar.

Emmitt Mosley vs Jay Timmons (5:56–7:34)

• Projected slot/nickel matchup: freshman Jay Timmons on Mosley.
• Garrison trusts Timmons after a clean first college game, but this is not Ball State. Depth options: Terry Moore (Duke), slide Matthews inside.
• Hosts later flag this as a primary key (see Keys section).

OSU worry vs Texas offense / Texas worry vs OSU D (7:35–10:00)

• Garrison’s worry: tackling. Can’t miss Arch Manning. Can’t miss Hollywood Smothers. Cites last year’s Wingo jet sweep that only Caleb Downs’ ankle tackle saved.
• Riley (at Ball State in person): first-half OSU offensive line was sloppy; second half cleaned up. That first-half version in Austin would be a problem.
• Riley’s OSU advantage: Matt Patricia’s scheme variety — nickel looks, boundary/middle disguises. Test of how much Arch has grown vs a pro-style, film-guru DC after last year’s first start.

Patricia wrinkles vs last year (10:00–11:06) Riley: feeling-out process. Could be 50/50 last year’s plan, 70%, or 10%. First drive or two will tell.

Ohio State offense vs Texas defense

Julian Sayin vs Texas pass rush (11:06–14:33)

• Both QBs making second career starts in this matchup after being eased in last year.
• Riley: experience is the word. Favorite Week 1 play was Sayin stepping up, finding space, scrambling for a TD — stay in structure rather than hero-ball off-platform throws. Texas covers ground and doesn’t leave many soft spots deep.
• Garrison: Sayin’s issue last year was seeing it late more than arm talent. Faster processing + quick release helps vs Colin Simmons (cites last-year play where Simmons was in his face and the ball still came out).
• Garrison likes Lance Jackson as a complementary rusher who also affects the run more than Simmons.

Will Muschamp / Texas D vs Ryan Day (14:33–16:10)

• Garrison to Texas fans: if Muschamp plays man vs a Ryan Day offense, he’s in trouble. Must mix. Pressure is smart vs Sayin; the question is what happens when it doesn’t get home.
• Man coverage also invites one-on-ones with Jeremiah Smith.
• Suggestion: borrow from the previous DC’s plan rather than going full old-school Muschamp.

Devin McEwen as WR2 (16:10–18:59)

• Last two Texas–OSU games, the WR2 (Carnell Tate, Emeka Egbuka) changed the game.
• Riley: raw talent maybe not quite Tate/Egbuka yet, but Arthur Smith is already using him in similar combo/corner concepts. Could get 4–5 impact catches.
• Garrison: McEwen truther since the commit. 4.3 speed, good routes. This is the stage to prove he can be “the guy” when Smith is bracketed. Took McEwen 50+ yards as a prop.

Phillip Daniels / right tackle (18:59–20:16)

• Hosts: Daniels struggled vs Ball State; Zach Smith and others noticed.
• Garrison joke tweet: “two things can be true — Daniels played badly Saturday and still owns Colin Simmons.”
• His actual recommendation: kick Austin Siereveld to RT. Wants the All-American-level player on Simmons even if Daniels had been average.

OSU players Texas fans may not know yet (20:16–22:33)

• Riley: Jalen McLean — interchangeable, hard-hitting, short tackler, can drop or play high. Model for stopping this Texas offense.
• Garrison: linebacker depth — TJ Alford (Florida) and Riley Pettijohn (Texas kid). Faster sideline-to-sideline than Peyton Pierce / Christian Lagra if Smothers or Relique Brown get to the edge. Doesn’t think OSU has settled starting LBs yet.

If/then and score predictions (guests) (22:33–27:30)

Garrison

• OSU wins if they hold Texas’ run game.
• OSU loses if they can’t find Jeremiah Smith.
• Score lean: 7–13 point OSU win (late score, not a blowout). Interested in Texas DT room and how Biles holds up vs Montgomery-sized backs. Best interior three in the country if they can keep Siereveld at guard (Siereveld–Montgomery–Hensman). Line of 1.5 is correct.

Riley

• Higher scoring than last year.
• 31–27 Ohio State.
• New kicking/special-teams personnel is a wildcard.
• First to 30 wins.

Hosts later: first to 30 is the right frame. Both defenses a step back from last year; both offenses loaded with NFL talent.

Plugs OhioStateVOCFB: Saturdays/Tuesdays 7 p.m. ET; Friday call-in 7 p.m. ET. Open invite if Texas wins.

After guests: Texas players to watch & keys (hosts) (~39:20–51:16)

Texas players

• RBs: Hollywood Smothers (run game) / Relique Brown (pass game, wheels, dump-offs). Need escape valves so Arch isn’t 2nd-and-12. Sark has used this with Jaydon Blue before. Isolate younger/less athletic OSU LBs.
• Emmitt Mosley: Hosts’ No. 1 Texas skill matchup. Veteran route adjuster vs true freshman Timmons. Slot/TE (Nick Townsend) seams when LBs blitz or run with backs. Eric Noland All-22: TEs were open vs Texas State and just weren’t needed.
• Colin Simmons: 0 sacks in two games vs OSU (pressures in the CFP game; almost nothing Week 1 last year). Needs 5–7 pressures, a sack or two, TFLs. Late-season Simmons, not early-season no-show. If he wrecks it, OSU has to change the plan. Complementary rush from Lance Jackson / Zeno Mosley-Owusu matters so Day can’t just chip Simmons every snap.
• Kobe Black: Likely the safety over the top of Jeremiah Smith. Has to win some 50/50s vs a 6-4, 225 WR or dislodge the ball. Path from “Texas fans know him” to national name.

Keys

1. Who runs it slightly better. Not dominance — 3.3–4.0 YPC and stay committed (Alabama road win template: ~27 carries, 80–90 yards, enough for play-action). Sark cannot abandon the run. Smothers consistently got positive yards vs Texas State; Relique’s negative plays were more space/scheme.
2. Arch in the fourth quarter. Will not walk in with the game already won. Two late third-down moments. Use his legs early (he was coached not to run much vs Texas State). 65%+ completion is the floor they want.
3. Heat. Kick ~6:30 p.m., forecast ~104°. Field temp could be 115–120°. Favors Texas if the game is still close in the fourth. Ohio humidity ≠ Austin triple-digit heat.
4. Middle of the field / TEs and Mosley when No. 1s are bracketed.

Is this the biggest regular-season game of the Sark era? (51:16–58:10)

Arguments it is

• Perception is reality: “Sark can’t win a big regular-season game.” Win and that talk dies for the year. Lose and it feeds.
• 0–2 vs Ryan Day (don’t want 0–3). Already 0–3 vs Kirby Smart.
• Out-of-conference, national window, ~20 million viewers.
• Fork-in-the-road for whether Texas joins the “1%” (Ohio State, Georgia, Indiana) or stays the team that beats everyone else.
• Bigger than the old Bama game because of where the program/Sark tenure sits now.
• Proof-of-concept game. Next similar chance might be Georgia in the SEC title or a playoff game. LSU on the road would be huge but wouldn’t fully rewrite the “can’t beat the elite” narrative (Lane Kiffin questions too).

Arguments it isn’t / caveats

• Everything is still on the table after one loss.
• Last year’s Georgia game in Athens had more immediate CFP/hottest-team-in-the-country stakes.
• Season doesn’t go off the rails with a loss — roster is too talented — but locker-room psyche and fan noise will leak in. Indiana’s win over OSU last year was that kind of confidence swing.

Consensus of the hosts: it is the biggest regular-season game of the Sark era, and the biggest out-of-conference game of it. Variance is enormous either way (bowling-ball-downhill vs creeping doubt).

Host score predictions (58:56–1:00:23)

• Tommy Bresee: Ohio State 27–24. Plenty of football reasons Texas can win; he needs to see Sark/Muschamp beat this tier once. Happy to be wrong.
• Matthew Miller: Texas 31–23. Believes in this roster and Arch having a special night. First to 30, and only Texas gets there.

Both: regardless of winner, two of the best QBs in the country on the same field; scouts will leave wanting one of them. Potential game of the year.

Side debate: best WR duo of the Sark era? (1:00:23–1:03:00)

• Cam Coleman = most talented single WR Sark has had.
• Right now hosts still slightly take Xavier Worthy + AD Mitchell over Wingo + Coleman.
• Ceiling of this duo is higher (size + completeness). 100-yard Wingo game vs OSU, or both going AD Mitchell-type stat lines, flips it. Want chain-moving consistency, not just one 40-yard shot.

Close

Thursday: Best Bets call-in, 6:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. CT (StreamYard link in comments). Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

00:00–04:00 — Open + Tommy’s main-game bets

• Weekly Thursday best-bets show for Texas (and Texas State) throughout the season. Week 1 slate is thin on film; more juice later.
• Texas -29.5 (-110 FanDuel). Tommy feels very good. Sark has stressed scoreboard/CFP optics; home openers under Sark average ~35-point wins (Sam Houston last year). Texas State is better and faster (high-pace team) and could backdoor late, but Texas defense should create sacks, INTs, TFLs, and fumbles that keep TXST from settling in. Bo Sparks and Chris Donwell will have spurts; Texas should answer with a big play every time.
• Over 59.5 (-110). Both sides pedal-to-metal. Texas State was one of the fastest teams last year. Texas will hit explosives even if down-to-down efficiency isn’t perfect (Relique Brown, Ryan Wingo, Cam Coleman). Tommy can see Texas scoring 50 by itself against a rebuilt TXST defense that struggled a year ago (four one-score losses). Lean ~28-0 at half, then keep rolling.

04:00–07:15 — Matt joins; run-game emphasis + 3Q bet

• Matt likes a team rushing over (main backs) more than the team passing over. Goal of the game/season: take it off Arch Manning’s shoulders. Relique Brown, Hollywood Smothers, Derek Cooper should tell the story—not Arch scrambling. TXST gave up ~180 rush YPG last year; if Texas can’t clear 200, OL questions linger.
• Texas -7.5 3rd quarter (+130 FanDuel). Sark home-opener 3Q point differential: 80–6 across five games (stat via Tyler Horka / Inside Texas). Expect TXST to want the ball first to avoid playing from behind; that would give Texas the second-half open. Plus-money hook at 7.5 is appealing.

07:15–12:20 — Anytime TDs, 1Q, Wingo, TXST team total

• Hollywood Smothers anytime TD (Matt). Six–seven guys could hit; wealth should be spread; wouldn’t shock if all three main backs score. Look down the depth chart too.
• Derek Cooper anytime TD (+310 FanDuel) (Tommy). Red-zone/run-game emphasis; extra snaps for second-line guys. Trevor Goosby will play but come out early; Andre Kojo gets the bulk. Cooper has popped all offseason.
• Texas -6.5 1st quarter (Matt). Shocked the number is that low—a 7–0 first quarter cashes. Sark has talked tempo and starting faster after past slow starts.
• Ryan Wingo over 48.5 receiving yards (Tommy). Could hit on the first play (Vandy-style screen/swing). TXST will have to account for Cam Coleman; Wingo should see a lot of singles. Sark praised him Thursday. Last year a high share of opening plays were Wingo screens. One catch can clear the number.
• Texas State under 14.5 team total (both; Tommy’s least favorite). Tommy’s score prediction was 41–13. Red-zone questions: Greg Burrell dismissed in April; Terrence Burgess Jr. and Jalen Jenkins now the run group. Short TXST WRs (5-11 / 5-9) are better in space than in tight. Could be a FG-fest (12 points after multiple stalled trips).

12:20–16:50 — Recap of the card + what “winning” this game actually means

Tommy’s card: Texas -29.5 | Over 59.5 | Texas -7.5 3Q | Wingo o48.5 rec | Cooper ATD Matt’s card: Team rush over (main backs / ~200+ implied) | Texas -6.5 1Q | TXST u14.5 | Smothers ATD

Process over final score (USC–San Jose State reminder):

• Rebuilt run game + OL look right vs. a defense they should dominate.
• Fast start.
• Cleaner penalties.
• Arch high completion %; Wingo/Coleman drops ≤1 over 2–3 quarters.
• Defense: get to the QB, stop the run.
• Fun later: KJ Lacey, Diabell first snaps, who is at LG with the ones.

If it’s not put away by half (~28-3 / 28-7), Ohio State week gets nervy.

16:50–21:20 — Call-in open, Week 1 viewing, Ohio State notes

• StreamYard open until 7 p.m. CT tonight (test night); longer windows once Ohio State / Oklahoma / LSU / A&M weeks hit. Postgame Saturday ~6:45–7:00 p.m. ET, earlier if it’s a blowout.
• Week 1 nationally is weak. Ohio State–Ball State is 12:30 p.m. ET at the Shoe (odd window). Watch Arthur Smith’s first OSU offense vs. last year’s version; won’t show the full Week 2 package. Keldrick Luster (Ball State, listed ~2.50 QB) is a name Tommy likes. Other stray games: Houston–Oregon State, Alabama–ECU (Keelan Russell / Duncanville angle).
• Texas–Ohio State preview flavor: new OSU OC (Arthur Smith, two-TE guy) vs. new Texas DC (Patricia). Sark has seen Patricia before. OSU TEs are not a strength; Smith’s Falcons run-game identity will test Texas’s front.

21:20–29:50 — Darrell’s call

Playbook vs. Texas State (Ohio State next): Matt: Expect deep shots and basics (Coleman gos/posts), establish the run, no trickery. If they have to get cute, that’s a problem. Tommy: Weekly plan looks similar on the surface; wrinkles are tiny (route depths, screen angles). Keep it vanilla. Ohio State has seen Sark.

In-game / season metrics:

• Arch 65%+ completions (UTSA last year was 11-of-24 and messy; opponent doesn’t excuse it).
• Zero turnovers (camp was noisy; don’t know if it was O or D).
• Fewer than five penalties; no pre-snap / 3rd-and-3-to-8 killers.
• Discipline required if they’re chasing 15–16 wins and a title.

Magnificent Seven title contenders (Darrell’s list; both hosts agree): Texas, Georgia, Notre Dame, Oregon, Ohio State, Indiana, Miami. Tommy: not personally “title or bust,” but the people writing the checks may be. Realities exist where falling short isn’t the end. Matt: Notre Dame / Oregon / Texas are the three most talented rosters. Next step is getting to a national championship (two recent Final Fours; goal-line stands vs. Washington and Ohio State). Must leave with a championship of some kind—SEC title and/or CFP title game. Beating Georgia (SEC or playoff) is the priority “have-to.” Winning the SEC then losing a semi to a clearly better Indiana would still feel like a success to both hosts; check-writers may disagree.

Sark bulletin-board material: Rutgers 7, UMass 14 in the second quarter (after it had been 7–7). Cheap motivation without reaching back to App State.

29:50–end — Close

See how the card hits. Postgame Saturday. “We’ll see you on Saturday.”

Clip-friendly timestamps

• 00:45–02:30 Texas -29.5 rationale + Sark home-opener history
• 02:45–03:30 Over 59.5 / pace + explosives
• 06:15–07:10 Texas -7.5 3Q + 80–6 stat
• 07:20–08:00 Smothers ATD
• 08:00–09:05 Cooper ATD + Goosby/Kojo
• 09:15–09:45 Texas -6.5 1Q
• 09:50–11:00 Wingo o48.5 + opening-play prediction
• 11:00–12:15 TXST u14.5 / red-zone / Burrell dismissal
• 14:50–16:40 Process checklist heading into Ohio State week
• 21:20–22:50 How much playbook to show
• 23:10–24:30 Arch 65% / zero TOs / penalties
• 24:35–28:50 Magnificent 7 + title vs. SEC vs. beat-Georgia debate

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro & Line (0:00–0:43)

Welcome, likes/subs, FanDuel. Game week vs. Texas State. Tommy calls 29.5 roughly fair: Texas State defense was poor last year and should not keep up.

Texas State Snapshot (0:43–1:22)

• 7-6 last year, won final four, 3-5 Sun Belt.
• 36.5 PPG with QB Brad Jackson and HC G.J. Kinney.
• 29 PPG allowed — bottom-third defense.
• 73rd in returning production: Jackson, Bo Spears (offense), safety Ryan Nolan (leading tackler).

Texas Offense vs. Texas State Defense (1:22–8:50)

What they need to see

• Clean football: no turnovers, few penalties, stay ahead of the chains.
• Offensive line push and short-yardage conversion (3rd/4th-and-1). Trevor Goosby and Lawrence Seymour practiced Monday. If Goosby is 50/50, sit him; if 90/10, play him so the line gets full-game reps after camp injuries.
• Run game takes it off Arch Manning’s shoulders. Target ~6 YPC vs. a bottom-third unit.
• Explosives are the identity, but this game should not require them. Arch should not need more than 20–25 attempts.
• Down-to-down consistency. Under 35 points is a problem; 45–50+ feels right.
• Arch 65% completion, cleaner mechanics/accuracy/on-time throws (last year’s issues were often mechanical, not just talent).
• Clean hands from Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman (one drop between them is fine; consistent drops/bobbles are not). Emmitt Mosley healthy.
• Explosive runs from Hollywood Smothers or Relique Brown — last year it took 6–7 games for a 20+ yard run. Need 2–3 of those or one 40+.
• O-line assignment soundness; no free rushers at Arch. Pre-snap penalties: one is tolerable, more is a red flag heading into Ohio State.
• Don’t need to see too much of Coleman/Arch/the backs late — that would mean the game is tighter than it should be.

Watch

• Seymour–Dylan Sikorski split.
• Nick Townsend: 4-catch, 60-yard, TD-type game would unlock the middle of the field and take attention off Coleman/Wingo. Both hosts think he can surpass Jatavian Sanders/Gunnar Helm with reps and confidence.

Texas Defense (8:50–14:08)

What they need to see

• Big-time plays from Raheem Biles.
• How rotations take shape at LB, safety, corner, and edge. First freshman on the field and in what situations (pass-rush only vs. all three downs).
• Justin Cryer as communicator. Aggressive/attacking but smart — balance is hard.
• Corner: Kobe Black vs. Cade Phillips (Grayson Littleton and Bo Masco lock two of three spots).
• Safety opposite Jelani McDonald: Jonah Williams, Derek Williams, possibly Black if Phillips takes the corner.
• Young LBs flash: Rocky Cummings, Kosi Akpala, or Tyler Atkinson.
• Will Muschamp approach vs. Texas State: more blitz/man expected. Get home; don’t get burnt. 4–6 sacks in play for the DL.
• Richard Wesley “pop” — Colin Simmons called him more talented. Should be in on multiple sacks.
• Line up four DL and beat their five; sprinkle in LB/nickel blitzes. Some early miscommunication is expected and should be cleaned up.

Game Prediction (14:08–15:47)

• Tommy: 48–13 Texas (covers). Comfortable, not perfectly clean; enough sloppy clips for OU/A&M fans. Offense does what it wants in the first half, then depth.
• Miller: 41–13 (Texas State covers). Two-and-a-half to three quarters of starters.
• Shared view: easy win unless Texas State’s two WRs and Brad Jackson get an early groove.

Viewer Questions (15:47–17:21)

• Cole Hudson: expected to play, not start (Seymour starts if healthy; Sikorski also listed). Sark will play any OL he thinks can contribute — Jackson Christian, Jordan Coleman, Jaden Chapman, others.
• Rice-game comparison: fewer bodies this year (~90 vs. 110), so not as many unique players, but more meaningful snaps for young pieces Sark trusts long-term. Richard Wesley could see 20+ snaps (used to be 5–15). Anyone who needs to play vs. Ohio State should get 15–20 snaps.

2026 Record & Playoff Predictions (17:21–33:47)

Both take Texas State and UTSA as wins.

• Ohio State (Texas -1.5): Tommy takes Ohio State — needs to see Sark out-scheme Matt Patricia (what beat them last year). Miller takes Texas: Ohio State has more defensive replacements; last year’s scheme advantage faded as the year went on.
• Tennessee (road): Both take Texas, close (within 10). Faison Brandon’s first SEC start vs. Muschamp; high variance.
• Red River: Both take Texas. Sark has consistently gotten the better of Brent Venables; last year’s win was efficient.
• Florida: Both take Texas, potentially comfortably after last year’s embarrassment. Buster Faulkner has answers for Kirby Smart-style defenses (similar to Muschamp).
• Ole Miss: Both take Texas. Don’t trust Pete Golding without Charlie Weiss Jr. and last year’s momentum.
• Mississippi State: Both take Texas. Kamario Taylor is elite-level talent but they won’t pick the upset yet.
• Missouri: Both take Texas. Vegas win total ~6–6.5; Ahmad Hardy timeline (late September rumors) and nine-game SEC slate point to regression.
• LSU (Death Valley night): Both take LSU. Miller’s first (and only) regular-season loss → 11-1. Tommy 10-2. Lane Kiffin + environment.
• Arkansas: Both take Texas.
• Texas A&M: Both take Texas (same logic as Oklahoma: defensive HC + QB arm questions vs. Texas).

Regular season: Miller 11-1, Tommy 10-2. SEC title: Both have Texas in and losing to Georgia. CFP path

• Tommy: Texas beats Miami and Oregon, loses national title to Notre Dame.
• Miller: Texas beats USC/Miami-type teams, beats Oregon in the title game. First time he has picked Texas to win the national championship on the channel — talent gap over Notre Dame/Oregon is small but real.

What Can Go Right (33:47–41:25)

• Sark lets personnel dictate scheme and adapts in-game (last year he called what he wanted instead of what the OL could execute until the Mississippi State comeback).
• Muschamp’s defense plays smart, not just fast — doesn’t overcommit.
• Coleman + Wingo cut drops and complement each other like Xavier Worthy/AD Mitchell. Coleman develops into a more complete route-runner (ceiling: George Pickens/A.J. Green traits).
• Arch plays “boring”: accurate and efficient. Big plays and legs will come; timing and completion percentage make the offense nearly unstoppable.
• Relique Brown and Hollywood Smothers hit home-run runs (sputter-then-explode room). That opens play-action and takes pressure off Arch. Derek Cooper as bruiser later.
• Elite safety play opposite McDonald so Muschamp can stay aggressive.

What Can Go Wrong (41:25–45:00)

• Linebacker depth: injury to Biles or Cryer (Ty Anthony Smith gone). Cryer is also a key communicator. Top-priority health names: Biles, Cryer, Arch, Coleman.
• Locker-room connectivity/egos with a heavy portal roster and many new faces. First loss will bring the “turmoil” questions.
• Self-inflicted wounds: pre-snap penalties, turnovers, failing to get 1–2 yards in key spots, shotgun/self-destruct plays (Arizona State memory).

First TD & Closing Philosophy (45:00–end)

First Texas TD guesses: Miller — Emmitt Mosley; Tommy — Hollywood Smothers (or Cam Coleman as fan-service jump ball). Philosophy: start fast every game. Talent on both sides of the ball should make opponents nervous early. Tommy’s extra notes: Do you trust Sark after the portal/staff swings? He does — ride him. Enjoy the process and the fun players instead of only measuring the season by a title. New Thursday 6:30 p.m. ET best-bets/call-in show added; Tuesday 7 p.m. ET remains. Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro & Heisman Odds (0:00–1:35)

• Welcome to the 116th edition of Texas Longhorns Live. Like/subscribe reminders.
• Arch Manning +850 to win the Heisman (behind CJ Carr at +700; ~150-point gap).
• Tommy: Roughly how he sees the top of the board. Carr benefits from a manageable schedule and better WR weapons than Notre Dame has had recently. Arch remains locked into the top 2–3/5 odds even with an uneven start.
• Matthew: Odds should have fallen some based on recent reports. Texas can still contend for a national title, but Arch needs a strong season for Heisman contention. Would not bet him now; might after a cold Ohio State game if odds drop further while remaining big-game opportunities exist.

Second Scrimmage Breakdown – Defense & Freshman LBs (1:35–4:30)

• Turnovers created: Interceptions by Kosiak-Paula, Grayson Littleton, Jamari on Carlton (and others).
• Jamari on Carlton INT likely a batted/shovel pass blown up by the DL that fell into his hands (not typical coverage drop).
• Kosiak-Paula continuing to make plays throughout camp/scrimmages. With Ty Anthony Smith out, the young LBs (Kosiak-Paula, Rocky Cummings, Tyler Atkinson) must step up. Body types are ready; question is on-field translation and processing speed at a heady position.
• Tommy: Freshman LBs were one of the two biggest things to watch (alongside clean Arch performance). Kosiak-Paula tipped a pick to himself and returned it for a TD; can play Mike or some Will. All three freshmen fit the physical prototype (Rocky ~6-4, nearly 230). Talent exists to replace Smith; early softer games (Texas State, UTEP) can accelerate development. Expect at least two of the three to look special by season’s end or heading into 2027.
• Rotation discussion: LB and WR rotations are the two biggest questions. LB depth expansion is more necessity than preference (hard to run only three all year).

Arch Manning Scrimmage Performance (4:30–11:30)

• Arch had two INTs; team total four turnovers (sloppy). Defense expected to create takeaways and already knows the playbook.
• Rough estimate: ~50 plays, maybe 20–25 true pass attempts → turnover rate not good. Not spinning it positively.
• Matthew: Arch has history of struggling in practice but elevating in games (partial Vince Young parallel—VY was not a good practice player). Consistency still needs work. Worry level ~5/10 (issue but not overwhelming).
• Tommy: Season-long not concerned at all—expects strong play start to finish with growth into more consistency late. Worth monitoring short/intermediate throws and mechanics, especially heading into Ohio State. Learned last year not to overreact before games are played (was too aggressive early on Arch previously). Turnovers were not an issue a year ago. Scrimmages limit leg use (pocket-only, no hits). Arch often needs to feel the game/hits to fully lock in. Sark teams are 27-1 when leading after the first quarter (only loss was 3-0 lead vs. Georgia in SEC title game). Process-oriented cleanliness vs. Texas State can ease Ohio State nerves. Worry level overall 3–4; higher pre-Ohio State but erasable by Texas State performance.
• Both: UTEP example (11/25) showed struggles even vs. weak competition when not locked in; Mississippi State relief appearance was excellent. Need ~70% completion or better vs. Texas State. Overblown by some, downplayed by others—middle ground. Arch has shown ability to improve and self-correct.

Offensive Line (11:30–16:00)

• Andre Kojo taking first-team reps at left tackle (positive development; competed at RT last year, potential Goosby fill-in).
• Tommy: Massive that Kojo is comfortable there with limited drop-off expected. Doesn’t sound like moving him inside to guard is a priority for Sark—value in having a true third tackle (Goosby precedent in 2024 at both spots). Interior options appear solid enough.
• Lawrence Seymour did not practice (limited live starter reps previously). Cole Hudson’s return helps. Concerns about OL cohesion.
• Tommy: Healthy Monday but slow-played; staff appears confident in him as the long-term left guard and is managing workload for the mock game + full first-team week. Could also be Dylan Sikorski playing well. Cohesion is the real worry heading into Ohio State (solid but not terrifying DL; Kenyatta Jackson overrated per hosts). Expect clarity vs. Texas State—Seymour likely settles as clear No. 1 LG. Kojo flexibility is a big safety net.

Other Positives & Will Muschamp (15:00–18:00)

• Sark on Grayson Littleton and Emmitt Mosley as hardest-working players. Slot receiver dirty work and nickel glue (Jordan Whittington precedent; Jade Barron-type nickel) are massive for this offense/defense.
• Outside recent drama, signs point up: confident team, Sark demanding greatness from a talented offense he knows can be special. Hold offense to high standard because it’s “his” side. Let them play before overreacting to expectations/last year.
• Will Muschamp hire growing in confidence (gamble given time away from play-calling). Colin Simmons: strength of the defense is the DC. Report that offense didn’t run the ball well Saturday because of Muschamp. Expected more havoc, turnovers, blitzes, and similar/more sacks. One observer: if this offense can score consistently on this defense, it can score on nearly anyone. Hosts previously projected top 10–15 defense; staff sounding top-10 confident. All pieces in place.

Comments Quick Hits (18:00–21:00)

• Vince Young magic comparison: mostly off-script legs (not practiced in scrimmages). Arch will use mobility in games, ideally less than last year.
• Jet Walker (freshman RB): Ahead of schedule but behind Michael Terry and James Simon—unlikely to play much (possible special teams). Power back with future upside; 2026 class adds more competition.
• KJ Lacey: Feeling good. If Arch is out short-term (not vs. Ohio State/LSU/Oklahoma), Texas can still win most games. Offense may need to be more conservative/point-guard style (less deep shots, fewer extended plays), but KJ can execute the necessary throws and the supporting cast is strong.

Drama in Austin – Ty Anthony Smith & Hayward Howard Jr. (21:00–30:00)

• Ty Anthony Smith: Not playing; Inside Texas reported off the team. Others talked around it. Sark cited flu (real for other players, convenient cover). Critical LB with NFL tools if he adds weight. Multiple reported reasons (on/off field).
• Hayward Howard Jr.’s father tweeted tagging reporters that he would “expose” what’s going on at Texas. Never helpful when a parent goes public (especially low on the depth chart—7th/8th QB). “Politics” language usually signals playing-time complaints. Likely already handled internally by staff. Howard had an INT in practice; can develop. Inconsequential overall.
• Tommy: Extra noise the program didn’t need (Arch hype, Sark push to elite, high-cost roster already enough). Parent tweet not a big deal long-term. For Smith: hope he gets back on his feet as a talented player. Football-wise, not ideal at a thin position, but talent exists to cover. If reports about buy-in/distraction are accurate, likely addition by subtraction—good culture polices itself and removes what won’t fit after attempts to help.
• Matthew: Culture discussion—keeping a problem after efforts to correct it would be the real culture issue. Nick Saban view on working with players first; ultimately both parties must want it (dating analogy). Rooting for Smith (good kid/player from recruiting reports and spring interactions; solid Michigan Bowl game). Howard situation overblown given depth-chart status—fodder for rivals, not a starter-level issue.
• Football path forward: Jordan Johnson-Rubell getting some LB reps (extra body). Freshmen (Atkinson, Kosiak-Paula, Rocky Cummings) expected above him. Need them to accelerate vs. Texas State and give situational help (pass rush, long third downs) to ease load on Raheem Biles, Justin Cryer, Brad Spence in September. Expect consistent high-level contributions from the young group later.

More Comments (30:00–32:30)

• KJ vs. Arch styles different (Stockton-like vs. big-play seeker); offense flexible enough to adjust concepts.
• Wish Texas had kept Bo Barnes (and Christian Clark). Only two clear “day they left felt like big losses” in Sark era (Logan Parr later proved more valuable than expected). Nick Brooks also mentioned (portal era reality; bizarre off-field episode; now competing at RT for Alabama—raises questions about Bama OL if true).

Opponent QB Decisions & Texas Implications (32:30–42:30)

Tennessee – Faison Brandon over George McIntyre (expected after earlier discussion with Tucker)

• Raises volatility. High ceiling (size, arm, athleticism; potential top-3/5 future QB in league). Gets early runway (Furman, Kennesaw State, Georgia Tech). Tennessee offense historically good with first-year QBs.
• Hosts still lean Texas, but Muschamp can confuse a young QB. Catch him cold and he can go for 300+ total yards/4 scores. Possible both extremes (hot game or multi-INT blowout) during the season. Watch rush-lane discipline (issue last year) and early conservatism vs. blitz-heavy approach.

Florida – Aaron Filo over Tramell Jones (expected with Buster Faulkner/Jon Sumrall influence)

• Steady, accurate, pocket presence, every throw. Facilitator/point-guard style fits the offense perfectly (space the playmakers). High-school Georgia records; can develop into genuine NFL prospect.
• Reduces valleys compared with a younger/less experienced option. Florida remains a high-variance, talented, dangerous team; Philo is a plus for consistency. Hosts still like the matchup at home but respect the pieces.

Arkansas – KJ Jackson over AJ Hill

• Essentially irrelevant. Arkansas among the SEC’s weakest; even elite QB talent wouldn’t change the outlook much vs. Texas. Jackson is the better dual-threat choice and interesting individually (had 200+ vs. Texas late last year), but supporting cast and overall roster limit the threat. Comfortable Texas win expected either way.

Close (42:30–end)

• Next week: Texas vs. Texas State game breakdown + any OL clarity/settled battles.
• Reminder: Tuesdays 7 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. CT. Like, subscribe, comment on the drama level.
• Final comment appreciation. Hook ’em.

Overall Tone: Measured concern on Arch consistency and LB depth after Smith’s exit, tempered by physical talent of the freshmen, OL flexibility (especially Kojo), positive Muschamp indicators, and confidence that early games can accelerate development. Drama framed as unnecessary noise—mostly inconsequential for Howard, potentially net positive (culture/buy-in) for Smith if reports hold. Opponent QB news adds volatility to Tennessee more than the others.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro & Red River Line (0:00–1:20)

• 115th episode of Texas Longhorns Live.
• Quick FanDuel plug: Texas currently -6.5 vs Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry. Line has already moved two points toward OU.
• Tommy: 6.5 feels about right. Expects it to settle in the 2.5–4 range by kickoff depending on early-season results. Both teams could enter undefeated or Texas with one loss. Anything over a touchdown would be aggressive.
• Consensus: If Texas beats Ohio State and Oklahoma beats Michigan, it becomes a rare top-5 Red River matchup (last time ~2008–09).

Trevor Goosby Injury (1:25–11:40)

Biggest news of the day. Initial reports had fans fearing a season-ending injury. MRI confirmed a bone bruise (non-contact).

Timeline & outlook

• Optimistic path: Could play Ohio State (25 days away) if swelling drops and pain tolerance allows. Unlikely to re-aggravate unless another hyperextension or collision.
• Realistic: Tennessee or Oklahoma. If the OL looks shaky vs Ohio State, they may rush him back for Tennessee. If it holds up, they use the bye and target Oklahoma’s strong DL.
• Miller: Wants him practicing during Texas State week or he’s probably out vs Ohio State. He wouldn’t play Texas State anyway (likely only a half).
• Both: Dodged a bullet. Last year’s RB injuries and the prior Baxter non-contact injury made this scare worse. Bone bruise is far better than Achilles/strain.

OL implications

• Not a perfect roster; they wanted more portal help.
• Most likely short-term: Melvin Siani to LT, Brandon Baker back to RT, Cole Hudson (23 career starts) at RG. Lawrence Seymour at LG (looked good in limited snaps). Connor Robinson trusted at C.
• Tommy’s preferred: Andre Kojo at RT so Baker can stay at RG for continuity later in SEC play.
• Siani this year should be better than Goosby was last year (first-year starter). Interior likely stays intact.
• They can tread water for 3–4 weeks if the skill players and Arch play well around them. Long-term they need Goosby back to beat elite DLs in a row.
• Positives: Arch is better, Sarkisian knows how to call around a weaker OL, more playmakers.

First Scrimmage Recap (11:46–23:00)

Texas held its first scrimmage Saturday.

Key takeaways

• Flu bug hit the team (hopefully done).
• Ty Anthony Smith rumors (possible team departure) did not materialize — thin LB room would have been a bigger problem.
• Arch Manning: Two interceptions.
  • One late throw to Emond Mosley over the middle; Jonah Williams made a great play coming across. Another safety was also in position.
  • Second: Screen to Hollywood Smothers; Grayson Littleton broke on it.
• Neither host is overly concerned. First live action in a while (missed most of spring). Arch historically takes time to find rhythm/footwork. Accuracy on easy throws (not INTs) was the bigger 2025 issue. Expect him to protect the ball.
• Want a cleaner second scrimmage (3 TDs, 0–1 INT) to build confidence heading into Week 1.
• Offense is behind the defense (timing vs. instincts). Skill players flashing: Hollywood Smothers (physical between-the-tackles guy they needed), Relique Brown (big-play threat), Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo (improved hands).
• Running game and OL looked functional before the Goosby injury. They have a trio that can take over early.

Defense

• Justice Terry generating Byron Murphy comps. If he hits that, DL becomes elite (imagine adding this version of Colin Simmons to the Sweat/Murphy group).
• Extremely deep DL (at least 11-deep). Eric Noland said 12–13; Tommy agrees they’re at least 11. Mix of run-stoppers and pass-rushers.
• Secondary coming together: Jonah Williams (big INT), Kobe Black strong reports. Four viable safeties for first time this offseason. Jordan Johnson-Rubell and Xavier Filson also options. Most improved group besides OL in last month.

Comments & Player/Unit Projections (23:00–38:15)

• Indiana winning without first-round OL talent cited as encouraging (but different scheme).
• Arch doesn’t have to be Superman; just B+ football with A+ moments later (LSU, A&M, playoffs).
• Easy completions (7-yard outs) are the real key. 65%+ completion percentage would be a win even with a few more INTs.

Individual projections

• Colin Simmons: 15 sacks (Tommy). Muschamp scheme should create more 1-on-1s. Progression + more blitzing.
• Raheem Biles: ~100 tackles, 5–7 sacks, multiple INTs/FFs. Chess piece; more aggressive than last year’s usage. Flu actually helped depth (Atkinson, Cummings, Akpala got extra reps).
• Lance Jackson, Zina, Justice Terry, DTs, LBs, and even some DBs all projected for 4–6+ sacks each.

Unit projections

• Team sacks: Tommy 50 (full season, top 5–10 historically). Miller 45+. Last year 38. Spread-the-wealth attack.
• Interceptions: 20 (up from 16). More aggression + more games. Bo Masco, Littleton, Kate Phillips, Jelani McDonald, Jonah/Derek Williams, Kobe Black, Warren Roberson all capable of multiples. Roberson could be a breakout if he stays penalty-free.
• Defense ranking: Top 10–15 overall, top 5 in sacks/havoc, top 12–15 in scoring, top 15 run D. ~18 ppg. Feast-or-famine Muschamp style but more feast than last year.

AP Poll Reaction (38:18–end)

Preseason Top 10: 1 Ohio State, 2 Oregon, 3 Georgia, 4 Notre Dame, 5 Texas, 6 Indiana, 7 Miami, 8 Texas A&M, 9 Ole Miss, 10 Oklahoma.

• Texas at 5 is fine (anywhere 1–7 would have been acceptable). Tommy has them 2 based on talent (behind only Oregon).
• Both dislike the large gap for Ohio State at No. 1 (40 first-place votes vs Oregon’s 14). OSU has questions on OL and replacing Downs/Stiles/Reese. Similar profile to last year’s Texas team.
• Oregon, Notre Dame, Texas are the three most talented rosters.
• Oklahoma defense could be the nation’s best; John Mateer is the swing factor.
• At least one (probably A&M or Ole Miss) from 8–13 will finish unranked.
• Outside Top 10: High on USC (playoff team), Louisville, Florida (could sneak into Top 25). Missouri as 25 is typical. Poll is mostly predictive/internet fodder; CFP committee matters more.

Outro Back Tuesday 7 p.m. ET or for breaking news. Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Intro & Playoff Odds (0:00–1:40)

• Welcome to the 114th edition of Texas Longhorns Live.
• FanDuel: Texas -175 to make the playoff (worst odds among teams with minus money). Alabama is plus money.
• Tommy on fairness: Schedules for Texas and Ohio State are absolute nightmares. Realistic path to 9-3 exists for both; loser of the Week 2 matchup could easily be on the outside looking in if other results don’t break right.
• Hosts expect at least one 9-3 team to make the CFP this year (possibly the loser of Texas-Ohio State if losses are competitive). Texas Tech sits right above Texas despite an easier schedule — market doesn’t fully buy Tech yet.

Fall Camp Intel – Arch Manning (1:40–6:00)

• Biggest early story: Arch Manning’s confidence and leadership.
• Last year’s mental flip happened around the Mississippi State game (more aggressive, freer, trash-talking). That swagger is showing up much earlier in 2026 fall camp.
• Hosts emphasize the weight Arch carries (name, expectations, previous foot surgery). Staff has allowed him to just play football, which has slowed the game down for him.
• Arch is the de facto leader of the locker room — critical for a team that needs to play for its quarterback.
• Positive vibes around mechanics and decision-making post-injury. Will be the No. 1 thing to watch once games start (even vs. Texas State).

Offensive Line (6:00–11:50)

• Overall tone is positive and improved from last year’s issues.
• Trevor Goosby: Best OL on the roster; dominating reps (walking people down except Colin Simmons).
• Melvin Siani (portal addition): Playing with needed edge/nastiness, especially in the run game. Big for physical matchups (Georgia-type games).
• Brandon Baker and Connor Robertson a year older and solid.
• Left guard remains the question mark. Candidates: Lawrence Seymour (Tommy’s favorite to win the job once pads are fully on), Cole Hudson (23 starts in the system — safe Week 1 option if no clear winner), Jaden Chapman, Jackson Christian, Dylan Sikorski.
• Consensus: Floor is higher than last year. Even if Cole Hudson starts early, the position group is better. Left side (Goosby-Hudson/Seymour-Robertson) should have cohesion advantages. Still needs to become “substantially better,” not just improved, for title contention.

Defensive Line & Overall Defense (11:50–16:00)

• Clear story of camp so far: Interior DL looks excellent.
• Justice Terry: Breakout candidate with highest confidence from Tommy. Up to ~290 lbs, special, stealing snaps. Expect him and Alex January to essentially split the backup DT role behind Hero Canoe; Terry may take the job as the season progresses. January still a draft pick either way.
• Hero Canoe and Alex January are known quantities. Full group (edges + interior: Colin Simmons, Terry, Canoe, January, Zeno Mosolo, etc.) projects as one of the better units in the country — right there with Oklahoma, Ohio State, Notre Dame, Georgia (maybe a half-step behind Oregon).
• Wide receivers also look the part (Cam Coleman catch highlighted from recent practice video).
• Defense slightly ahead of offense (normal for early camp). Not one-sided, which is ideal. Scrimmage at end of the weekend will be a key measuring stick.
• Will Muschamp hire already showing intensity/aggression benefits that the OL will have to match.
• Rasheem Biles expected to be excellent at LB; Justin Cryer and Ty Anthony Smith also in the mix.

Offensive Stat Projections (rough estimates) (16:00–27:00)

Tommy’s numbers (emphasized as rough guesses):

Arch Manning

• Completion %: 66%+ (key number; last year ~61.5%)
• Passing yards: ~4,000 (would break Colt McCoy’s school record of 3,800 from 2008)
• Passing TDs: 34
• INTs: ~10 (more aggressive/free play style)
• Rushing: 400–500 yards, ~8 TDs

Running Backs

• Hollywood Smothers: Leading rusher, ~850–900 yards, 6–7 TDs (more shared workload than his NC State year)
• Relique Brown: ~1,000 total yards (heavy receiving component, Jaden Blue-type role), ~700 rushing, 8–10 total TDs
• Derek Cooper: ~350 yards, 4 TDs (CJ Baxter/Jared Gibson-type freshman change-of-pace role)
• James Simon, Michael Terry, others factor in lightly. Three-headed monster with Cooper getting more late-season work.

Wide Receivers

• Cam Coleman: ~1,100–1,200 yards (primary target, red-zone and all-around)
• Ryan Wingo: ~1,000 yards, ~8 TDs (elite complementary piece; improved consistency)
• Emmett Mosley: ~600 yards (injury history keeps projection conservative; upside higher)
• Trio expected to dominate the target share; depth (Kalik Locke, Jermaine Bishop, etc.) fills in.

Tight Ends

• No true Gunnar Helm-level TE1. Committee of Nick Townsend, Spencer Shannon, Michael Masunis, Emery Winston.
• Group: ~800 yards, ~8 receiving TDs (Townsend leads both categories, ~4 TDs). Good blockers, lots of rotation. Townsend projects as the long-term TE1 (2027+).

Team Offense

• ~38.5 points per game (could be higher, but defense should allow more balanced/clock-control games rather than pure shootouts).
• Top-10 unit expected. Improved efficiency and run game should reduce forced throws. Not 2019 LSU or 2020 Alabama numbers, but special and CFP-capable.

Defense projections deferred to next week.

Top 3 Offseason Gambles for Sarkisian & Staff (28:00–end)

1. Portal aggression level (especially OL/LB). They pursued big targets (Michigan guards, Joe Brunner from Wisconsin, Christian Aliago/Kay Uvele at LB, etc.) but didn’t land every one. Floor raised significantly, but left guard still open and some high-ceiling pieces (e.g., Nick Brooks to Alabama) left. “Did they do enough?” will be judged by results.
2. Retaining Kyle Flood as OL coach. Last year’s issues weren’t purely talent (eyes, technique, assignments). Flood has a strong resume (Joe Moore Award at Alabama), and the talent upgrade + continuity should help, but another year of the same problems with better players would be costly. Keeping him meant no new OC either — Sark is betting on himself as play-caller one more time.
3. Replacing PK with Will Muschamp as DC. Biggest structural change. Muschamp brings intensity, physicality, and program-culture impact (even if his pure play-calling rust is real). Hosts view it as a foundational hire more than a pure 2026 championship bet. Defense was already solid; changing the approach while largely keeping the offense the same raises the stakes.

Overall tone from hosts: Sarkisian made the right aggressive bets to turn “good” into “great.” Everything is lined up for a title run if the gambles pay off. Execution on Saturdays (starting with Ohio State) will decide it. Arch Manning as a Heisman finalist is very much on the table.

Closing notes: Scrimmage upcoming. Pads and full contact will clarify OL and other battles. Matthew had Wi-Fi issues and was mostly out. Back next Tuesday. Hook ’em.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

0:00 – Intro & Ohio State Betting Talk

• Welcome to another edition of Texas Longhorns Live. Testing 7 p.m. ET slot on Tuesdays.
• Brought to you by FanDuel.
• Quick look at the Week 2 Ohio State game: Texas favored by 1.5. Over/under is 47.5.
  • Tommy: Leans under. Early-season games + two defenses that lost a lot of production often stay lower-scoring.
  • Matthew: Leans over. Both quarterbacks have a year under their belts and Texas has more offensive weapons. Last year’s 14-7 was an offensive stinker; expects a higher-scoring affair.

1:18 – Is Steve Sarkisian on the Hot Seat?

Core question raised around SEC Media Days.

Tommy’s take (firm no):

• People pushing the narrative largely don’t want Texas to succeed and are planting the “hot seat” seed early so they can claim foresight later.
• Context is critical: Texas was stuck around .500 and mediocre for over a decade (2010–2021 era under previous coaches). Sarkisian has the program closer to a title than it has been in a long time.
• High expectations are fair (Texas should have them), but Sark has more runway/slack than critics admit.
• Even a 9-3 year that barely makes (or misses) the playoff would not get him fired. Something closer to 7-5 or worse with a healthy roster would be required.
• Longer-term view matters: firing him after a short-term disappointment risks tanking the recruiting pipeline and setting the program back for 2028–29 when the roster should again be elite.
• More likely outcome than a mid-season or end-of-year firing: Sark goes on a deep run / wins a title and then leaves for the NFL (possible package deal involving Arch Manning or similar).

Matthew’s take (also no, with conditions):

• Not on the hot seat unless the season completely bottoms out — which the talent level makes very unlikely short of catastrophic injuries.
• This is the year before true hot-seat territory. Minimum bar for 2026: make the playoff and win at least one game. Anything less and 2027 becomes much more pressurized (possible need for SEC title or national title appearance).
• Sark has set the standard by reaching the Final Four twice. Dropping significantly below that will invite questions, but Texas is not firing him over a solid-but-not-championship year.
• If results disappoint, the more realistic short-term moves are staff changes (Kyle Flood is the name most often mentioned first; possible OC hire is the next step). Chris Del Conte (CDC) likes Sark and would only move if he already had a strong replacement lined up.
• Possible future names floated hypothetically (distant): Kenny Dillingham (if Arizona State has a big year), Will Stein (Kentucky), Eric Morris later.

Additional context discussed:

• Best skill players under Sark have largely been Tom Herman holdovers or transfers (Xavier Worthy the clearest pure Sark recruit who became a star). Newer classes (Ryan Wingo, Kalik Lockett, Daylon McCutcheon, etc.) will answer whether the developmental pipeline is fully online over the next 2–3 years.
• Overall consensus of both hosts: Hot-seat talk is overblown. Sark has proven he can put a team in national title contention; the remaining step is finishing the job (or getting a couple of breaks).

10:48 – Fall Camp Breakout Candidates

Tommy’s #1: Justice Terry (DT)

• Up to 290 lbs while still moving extremely well. Can play multiple techniques (3-tech, 4i, etc.).
• Expects him to be a major contributor this year and, alongside Elijah Griffin, form one of the best DT tandems in the SEC (or country) by 2027.
• Could push/work into the rotation behind (or with) the current starters and eventually take more snaps from Alex January.

Matthew’s picks:

• Kalik Lockett (WR) – Make-or-break year. Has the talent to post 300–400 yards + 4–5 TDs as the WR4/rotation piece. Needs to stay healthy and force his way into a crowded group. Similarities noted with Cam Coleman (especially ball skills).
• Jermaine Bishop Jr. (WR) – Extremely versatile (took DB reps this summer). Can play multiple spots; hard to keep off the field. Strong candidate to work into the rotation and potentially settle as a key depth/special-teams contributor who earns more offensive snaps.
• Kobe Black (CB/S) – Needs a big year after a brief portal flirtation. Versatile enough to play boundary or nickel/safety. One of the primary candidates for the third corner/outside spot alongside Bo Mascoe and Grayson Littleton. Long, physical, good hip-flip traits.

Additional names discussed:

• Jonah Williams (S) – Fully healthy after baseball-related issues. Has drawn consistent rave reviews whenever healthy. Safety room is fluid; he is one of several candidates (alongside Kobe Black, Derek Williams, etc.) who could solidify the back end next to Jelani McDonald.
• Colton Vossick (Edge) – Pure health question. Elite length and high-end ability; needs to stay healthy enough to carve out edge rotation snaps behind Lance Jackson and Colin Simmons. Behind him sit several athletic pieces (Richard Wesley, Jamarian Carlton, etc.).
• Tyler Atkinson (LB) – Freshman who has reportedly found his groove. Linebacker room has competition (Ty Anthony Smith, Rasheen Biles, Justin Cryer, Darius Snow, Rocky Cummings, Marcus Boswell). Could work into the LB3/LB4 role and potentially higher by season’s end.
• Nick Townsend (TE) – Tight end room has seen a lot of positive buzz (Michael Masunis, Spencer Shannon also mentioned). Townsend viewed as the most well-rounded and the one most likely to earn consistent snaps, especially in 11 personnel. Athletic upside (11-second 100m at his size) is unique.

24:00-ish – Fall Camp X-Factors

Matthew’s primary X-factor: Nick Townsend

• Freak athlete at tight end who can also block. Ceiling to be a B+ SEC tight end and unlock more of the offense (similar impact Gunnar Helm had in 2024). Offense will be good either way; a true difference-maker at TE elevates it to elite.

Broader X-factors:

• Freshman class as a whole — Especially Tyler Atkinson, Derek Cooper, and Jermaine Bishop Jr. Meaningful contributions from a few of these players are viewed as important for the team to reach its ceiling (not necessarily All-Stars, but impactful snaps, special teams, short-yardage, etc.).
• Will Muschamp’s adaptation — How he mixes coverages, pressures, and personnel against modern offenses (particularly versus Ohio State and Jeremiah Smith). Personnel allows multiple looks; the scheme/adjustment period will be telling early.
• Leadership & connectivity — Key returning leaders identified: Arch Manning, Trevor Goosby, Ryan Wingo, Colin Simmons, Jelani McDonald. Need them to fully integrate transfers and new pieces so the team stays cohesive through a long, tough schedule. Hosts feel leadership is better than last year, with Arch taking a bigger step.
• Red-zone efficiency — Persistent issue since Bijan Robinson’s era. Team will create explosives, but must convert longer drives against elite defenses (Ohio State, Georgia, playoff opponents) to win a title. Derek Cooper, Michael Terry, Amari Winston, and better O-line play are potential solutions.
• Staying healthy into Week 1 — Balance of preparation vs. avoiding soft-tissue or other injuries to key pieces (Rasheen Biles, Trevor Goosby, etc.). Roster is special; needs to stay intact.

Other notes: Cole Hudson (if available) viewed as a valuable non-starter leader who can help the O-line room. Michael Terry could see creative usage (RB/TE/X) as they evaluate best long-term fit.

38:30 – Coaches Poll Reaction

Top 5 released: 1. Ohio State, 2. Oregon, 3. Georgia, 4. Texas, 5. Notre Dame.

Hosts’ consensus:

• Texas at No. 4 is acceptable. Both group Oregon / Texas / Notre Dame as the three most talented rosters. Georgia’s placement is understandable given Kirby Smart’s track record and recent results vs. Texas.
• Strong disagreement with Ohio State at No. 1. Viewed as similar to last year’s Texas team (heavy losses on defense, high expectations, questions about fully replacing generational talent). Matthew feels good about a 9-3 prediction for the Buckeyes.
• Top 7 is a tight cluster that can be ordered almost any way. A&M (8), Oklahoma (9), and Ole Miss (10) are viewed as more vulnerable — especially A&M and Ole Miss, which both hosts expect to take steps back relative to preseason ranking.
• Notable other rankings mentioned: Alabama 11, Texas Tech 12, LSU 13, USC 14, BYU 15, Michigan 16, Penn State 17, Tennessee 18, Washington 19, SMU 20, Utah 21, Iowa 22, Clemson 23, Houston 24, Missouri 25.
• Surprises / teams that could move: Louisville belongs in the top 25 conversation. Michigan under Kyle Whittingham (with a strong run game) could be dangerous, especially if they beat Oklahoma. Clemson and Missouri were the two ranked teams the hosts were least convinced by.

Closing

• Episode 113 of Texas Longhorns Live.
• New permanent time: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. ET.
• Call to action: Like, subscribe, drop hot-seat opinions, breakout candidates, X-factors, and ranking takes in the comments.
• Hook ’em.

Overall tone of the episode: Measured and optimistic on Sarkisian’s job security and the roster’s upside, with clear eyes on the remaining developmental and scheme questions that will be answered in fall camp and early in the season.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Summary

The 112th episode of Texas Longhorns LIVE focuses on two main topics: the surprising potential return of former Texas offensive lineman Cole Hudson and a preview of SEC Media Days + the SEC Media Poll. The hosts discuss roster implications for Texas, broader NCAA eligibility issues, excitement around Media Days, and their predictions for how the media will rank SEC teams.

Key Segments & Highlights

1. Cole Hudson Situation (Opening ~15 minutes)

• Cole Hudson (OL) is in Browns rookie minicamp but is appealing for an extra year of eligibility under the new "five to play five" rule.
• Hosts view this as a net positive for Texas due to much-needed interior offensive line depth.
• Hudson brings significant experience (48 games, 23 starts).
• Depth benefit: Hudson + Dylan Sikorski + Lawrence Seymour provides solid interior options.
• Consensus: Hudson is unlikely to start immediately. Lawrence Seymour is seen as the better current player and better pass protector. Hudson would likely serve as a high-floor veteran backup/mentor.
• Discussion on precedent: Not ideal for college football optics, but the rule exists and others have benefited. Likely a one-off rather than a trend.
• Speculation on who initiated contact and NIL/pay considerations (Texas likely offering more than practice squad).

2. SEC Media Days Preview

• Texas speaks later in the week (Sark one of the last coaches).
• Players expected: Arch Manning, Colin Simmons, Trevor Goosby.
• Biggest anticipated moments:
  • Colin Simmons: Guaranteed to deliver headlines/trash talk.
  • Arch Manning: Tone shift expected as a returning starter; media hype will be intense.
  • Steve Sarkisian: Expected to emphasize Texas’s tough strength of schedule (3rd toughest per FPI) and show confidence.
  • Trevor Goosby: Valuable insight on the rebuilt offensive line (Seymour, Siani, etc.) as a veteran leader.
• Freshmen class (Jermaine Bishop Jr., Derek Cooper, etc.) expected to get significant buzz.

3. SEC Media Poll Predictions

• Hosts’ expected media top 5: Georgia, Texas, LSU, Alabama/Ole Miss/A&M mix.
• Matthew Miller’s predicted media order: Texas, Georgia, LSU, Alabama, Oklahoma.
• Tommy’s lean: Georgia 1, Texas 2, then Ole Miss/LSU/A&M heavy.
• Agreement on Georgia/Texas as clear 1-2 (order TBD; hosts lean Georgia until Texas beats them).
• Debate on 3-7 tier: LSU (high roster talent/hype), Alabama (lingering brand power but some skepticism on Kalen DeBoer), Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Ole Miss.
• Concerns: Ole Miss coaching changes (Lane Kiffin departure, offensive scheme shift); A&M O-line integration.
• Bottom of the league: Arkansas predicted last; Vanderbilt second-to-last. High respect for conference depth overall.

Notable Quotes / Takeaways

• On Hudson: “It can only be a good thing… provides a very good floor for this Texas offensive line.”
• On Seymour vs. Hudson: Lawrence Seymour is the better player right now.
• On Colin Simmons: “He is going to make headlines… will take a shot at someone.”
• On Sark: Expected to fire up strength-of-schedule conversation.
• General vibe: Cautious optimism for Texas entering the season; excitement for fall camp and freshmen impact.

Closing

• Standard calls to like/subscribe + comment predictions for #1 and #16 in the SEC poll.
• Next episode time change note: Moving to 7 p.m. ET.

Overall Tone: Balanced, insightful, and Texas-centric but realistic about Georgia and the gauntlet of the SEC. Strong focus on offensive line depth as a key variable for Texas’s ceiling.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Key Segments & Takeaways

1. World Cup Final Preview (Spain vs Argentina)

• Spain favored at -156, Argentina +136.
• Hosts lean Spain but acknowledge Argentina’s magic (Messi factor) and recent luck/skill.
• Excitement around Messi vs. young star Lamine Yamal.

2. Recruiting: Top Remaining Targets

• Monshun Sales (Top Priority): Commits Friday. Texas vs. Indiana toss-up (51/49 lean Texas). Staff closing ability highlighted (Atkinson, Wingo precedents). Possible flip potential post-commitment. ~80% chance Texas lands Sales or Easton Royal; ~25% both.
• Easton Royal: Fits Sark system well; LSU pushing hard. X-receiver emphasis (importance of dominant X like AD Mitchell/Golden).
• Landen Williams-Callis (RB): Missouri pushing (early playing time, NIL). Texas favored for development/winning upside. Comp to supercharged Jaden Blue. High priority; commitment expected before season.
• Other Names to Watch:
  • Josiah Poyer (LB, USC commit, St. John Bosco).
  • Honor (or similar; USC safety commit).
  • Toa Tosi-Taylor (LB, Oregon commit) – high-upside target.
  • DJ Jacobs (#1 player overall) – Long shot but Texas in mix if Sales misses.
  • Jalen Brewster – Low probability due to Texas Tech NIL (land deal).

3. Texas Recruiting Outlook

• Class at ~22 commits; targeting ~25. Headliners: Sales, Williams Callas, Royal.
• Strong recent momentum (Pat McAfee show commitments).
• Portal strategy emphasized for LB depth.
• Broader context: NIL landscape, constant fighting until signing day.

4. Top 5 Players Texas Cannot Lose to Injury (for Natty Contention)

• #5 (Bresee): Jelani McDonald (S) – Versatility, communication key for aggressive defense.
• #5 (Miller): Cam Coleman (WR) – Gravity, YAC, elevates Wingo/others; game-changer like AD Mitchell.
• #4: Rasheem Biles (LB) – Chess piece, playmaking (tackles, sacks, INTs).
• #3-4: Colin Simmons (Edge) – Best defensive player in country; forces extra attention.
• #2: Brandon Baker (OL) or Trevor Goosby (OL) – Injury protection + elite play (Baker’s versatility at G/T).
• #1 (Both): Arch Manning (QB) – Ceiling-raiser; backup KJ Lacey unproven for full Natty run.

5. Roster Discussion: "Flawless"?

• Consensus: No flawless rosters in modern CFB (NIL/portal era).
• Texas has the best roster in the country (talent, experience, coaching) but holes remain:
  • Linebacker depth (thin after transfers).
  • Offensive line depth/guard questions.
  • Safety (if Williams regresses).
• Strengths: Elite QB, RBs, WRs, defensive stars (Simmons, etc.).
• 2026 outlook: Potential rebuild; this year is the peak window.

6. Closing & Viewer Interaction

• Like/subscribe calls; FanDuel promo.
• Emphasis on living up to high expectations (likely top-3 preseason ranking).
• Sark’s job: Close small gaps (1-5 plays per game).

Overall Tone: Optimistic on Texas’ 2026-27 outlook, realistic about challenges. Heavy focus on recruiting urgency and key personnel. Strong chemistry between hosts with data-driven analysis mixed with fan passion.

Notable Quotes:

• On Sales/Royal: “I would put that at about eighty percent [landing one].”
• On roster: “You have as many answers as anyone in the country.”
• On Arch: “If he gets hurt, Texas wins the national championship? ... one percent chance.”

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Key Segments & Takeaways

1. Opening / Texas vs. Texas State Preview

• Texas favored by ~31.5 points; over/under ~60.5.
• Hosts expect Texas to cover and the game to go over due to late-game scoring against backups.
• Emphasis on Steve Sarkeesian seeking style points against weaker opponents.

2. Summer Workout Intel & Position Changes

• Kobe Black: Moving to safety (possibly free safety/center fielder role). Hosts love the move—better physical fit (long, rangy), improves ball skills in secondary. Boosts confidence in corner depth (Samari Matthews, Warren Roberson).
• Xavier Fils-Aimé: Shifting toward nickel. Versatile cross-training expected across nickel/safety roles depending on opponent, down, and personnel (e.g., vs. run-heavy teams).
• Overall theme: High versatility and depth in the secondary; Will Muschamp will experiment heavily.

3. Defensive Depth Chart Discussion ("Who Starts On Defense?")

• Nose Tackle/Interior DL: Ian Jafard expected to start early, but rotation likely. Strong depth with Hero Canoe & Alex January leading; Murad Watson, Josiah Sharma, Justice Terry, and others provide two-deep starters. High upside and rotation expected.
• Edge: Colin Simmons + Lance Jackson projected as elite starter duo (potentially top in country). Limited rotation possible—Zeno Mozilo, Colton Vasek (health key), Richard Wesley as key backups. High floor with star potential.
• Linebacker: Biggest question mark due to depth.
  • Starters: Rasheem Biles (Mike, critical leader/freak athlete—cannot get hurt), Ty Anthony Smith.
  • Brad Spence in 3-LB sets.
  • Freshmen: Rocky Cummings emerging fastest (physical, coverage-ready); Tyler Atkinson (pass rush upside, needs time); Kosi Akpala.
  • Others: Justin Cryer (experience), Darius Snow (health-dependent wildcard).
  • Concern: Injuries would force heavy reliance on unproven freshmen/young players. Room has high ceiling but thin margin.

4. Other Notable Position Notes

• Offensive Line: Positive summer buzz on depth (Devin Coleman, Andre Kojo as swing tackle). Addresses prior concerns.
• Freshman Linebackers: Trio (Cummings, Atkinson, Akpala) physically ready; Rocky Cummings highlighted as potential early impact player.
• Wide Receivers: Extremely deep and talented; rotation of 5–6 expected. Justice Terry, Kalik Lockett, Jermaine Bishop Jr., Daylon McCutcheon among standouts.
• Secondary: Strong with cross-training and returning talent.

5. Top 3 Concerns for 2026 Season

• Sarkisian Adaptation: Must adjust schemes/personnel faster to available players (less rigid 12-personnel, workhorse RB, etc.) rather than ideal vision.
• Physicality vs. Elite Competition: Must win key short-yardage/physical moments against top teams (Ohio State, Georgia, etc.).
• Arch Manning’s Development / Pressure Handling: Needs cleaner play (accuracy on underneath routes, decision-making) to reach national title level; early pressure could create cracks.
• Bonus: Linebacker depth/injury risk remains a major vulnerability.

Overall Tone & Outlook

Optimistic on talent and depth in most areas (especially DL, edge, WR, secondary). Defensive experimentation under Muschamp is a major storyline. Linebacker health and Sark’s in-season adaptability are the biggest “ifs” for a championship run. Hosts stress proving summer hype on the field, especially in early tests.

Closing: Standard calls to like/subscribe; tease future episodes and recruiting news.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overall Summary

Texas lands a high-upside, long defensive lineman in Jason Johnson, who beat out strong interest from Mississippi State, LSU, Florida, Cal, and Vanderbilt. Bresee highlights Johnson's strength at the point of attack, run-game dominance, solid first step, and anchoring ability. He projects as an interior DL who could add weight (to 305-315) and develop into a versatile pass rusher with NFL potential, drawing comparisons to Byron Murphy and Alfred Collins. This is viewed as a "buy-low" high-ceiling addition that fits Kenny Baker's defensive line vision and builds foundational depth for the class. The episode also teases upcoming commitments like Brandon Sherard (July 1) and Ishmail Kamar (potentially soon/biggest of the cycle).

Timestamped Key Segments

0:00 - 0:29 – Intro & Commitment Announcement

• Welcome and immediate announcement: Jason Johnson, 3-star DL from Ascita HS, commits to Texas.
• Size: 6'4, 280 lbs, very long frame.
• Beat out: Mississippi State, LSU, Florida, Cal, Vanderbilt.

0:29 - 1:50 – Player Evaluation & Strengths

• High-level interest from top defensive coordinators (Tosh Lupo at LSU, Cal at Florida) validates the talent.
• Elite at point of attack: Strong first punch, snaps OL backward, hard to move.
• Run-game nightmare: Resets the line, generates TFLs or minimal gains.
• Good first step for 280 lbs; uses hands well, slip moves into backfield.
• Aggressive bull rush; potential to develop more pass-rush moves.
• Comparison: Could evolve into a Byron Murphy / Alfred Collins type (versatility inside/out in HS).

1:50 - 3:27 – Projection, Development & High School Context

• Current projection: Interior DL; likely adds to 305-315 lbs in college.
• Excellent anchor and counter ability when losing initial battles (low pad level, knee drop like Murphy).
• Plays big-time 6A Texas football — helps with speed of game and facing talent.
• Surprised he's still rated 3-star; high ceiling player.

3:27 - 5:44 – Class Context & Long-Term Outlook

• Fits perfectly with Kasi Curry already committed; missed out on Marcus Fakatau (to Ohio State).
• "Perfect buy-low prospect" with NFL ceiling.
• Needs weight and refined pass-rush moves but has special potential.
• Likely redshirt freshman year; impact expected in 2028-2029.
• Important foundational piece for depth, especially in the portal era.

5:44 - 9:33 – Next Commitments & Recruiting Outlook

• Brandon Sherard (DB): Expected July 1; Texas leading, strong visit, helps elite secondary with Montrey Jackson, Junior Tuo, John Meredith.
• Ishmail Kamar: Biggest potential commitment of cycle (Kelvin Banks-level talent, immediate impact); timeline uncertain but Texas gaining on Oregon; academics/early graduation factor.
• Landon Williams Callus (RB): Mentioned as future target with family ties.
• Texas on a hot streak; more commitments likely in July; all-in on recruiting for an "all-in" season.

Key Quotes

• "Really long defensive lineman... constantly snapping offensive linemen back on his highlight tape with his first punch."
• "A real nightmare in the run game... does a great job of resetting the offensive line in his favor."
• "I think this could be a pretty special player and someone that turns into a massive success story."
• "If I had to pick one lower star player in this class to hit, probably pick Jason Johnson."
• On Kamar: "This is a special special player at a position that you badly need... Kelvin Banks level player."

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Summary

Texas secured a commitment from 4-star safety Junior Tu'upo (Thompson HS, Alabama / previously Florida), marking the 19th commit in the 2027 class. Host Matthew Miller highlights this as evidence of an aggressive, national recruiting approach under Steve Sarkisian, Blake Gideon, and new defensive additions like Will Muschamp. Tu'upo is the first safety in the class and fits the versatile, physical profile valued in the evolving Texas defensive scheme.

Key Player Details

• Ranking (247 Composite): #236 nationally, #19 safety
• Measurables: 6'2", 190 lbs (projected to add 15-20 lbs)
• Athletic/Playing Style: Long, lengthy, physical, hard-nosed. Willing to come downhill in the run game. Versatile — can play safety, big nickel (Muschamp favorite), and even emergency QB in a pinch.
• 2025 Stats (prior to transfer): 66 tackles, 5 TFL, 7 PBUs, 3 INTs
• Immediate Impact: Expected to contribute on special teams right away and compete for meaningful playing time by Year 2.

Timestamped Key Highlights

• 00:00 - 00:15: Intro & commitment announcement. Miller predicted the pickup.
• 00:15 - 00:46: Class context — 19th commit, far ahead of Sark’s usual pace. National recruiting map expansion (MS, AL, FL, GA, VA).
• 00:46 - 01:51: Player evaluation. First safety in class (possibly only one needed due to youth at position). Physical traits, run support, versatility praised. Strong fit in Muschamp’s scheme and Pete Kwiatkowski’s positional versatility emphasis.
• 01:51 - 02:52: Development path & upside. Special teams contributor immediately; potential top-200 riser. Strong job by Gideon and Muschamp.
• 02:52 - 03:38: Stats, background (Florida → Thompson AL), and recruiting wins. Texas beat out Alabama (struggling in cycle) and Auburn.
• 03:38 - End: Teases upcoming commitments (Monterey Jackson expected soon), class projection (95% wrapped by Week 1), and battles for elite WRs (Munch/Sales & Eastern Royal). Mentions Landon Callis Williams, Ishmael Kamara, Marcus Faka outlook.

Recruiting & Scheme Analysis

• Staff Impact: Blake Gideon and Will Muschamp made Tu'upo a priority immediately upon arrival. Demonstrates Texas flipping high-upside targets from SEC territory.
• Defensive Philosophy: Emphasis on getting the 11 best football players (Muschamp). Positional versatility will be key under the new staff.
• Class Momentum: Texas is in a strong position. Miller expects heavy activity, with most of the class locked in early. Specific notes on cornerback additions (Monterey Jackson + John Meredith as a strong duo) and other targets.

Notable Quotes

• “This is recruiting at its best... expanding the recruiting map.”
• “Long, lengthy, physical guy that can play multiple positions... really good, talented, and hard-nosed football player.”
• “He might be able to play that big nickel spot that Will Muschamp loves.”
• “We stole him away from the University of Alabama... and Auburn.”

Overall Assessment

Miller is very bullish on Tu'upo as a high-floor, versatile defender who can develop into a starter. The commitment reinforces Texas’s strong 2027 trajectory and ability to win battles in the Southeast. The episode ends with a call for likes/subscribes and a preview of the next commitment (Monterey Jackson).

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overall Summary

The hosts discuss realistic expectations for the 2026 Texas Longhorns, emphasizing massive upside with a talented roster but acknowledging execution risks. They cover season ceiling/floor, key position groups, coaching implications, recent recruiting wins, future targets, and under-the-radar strengths. Optimism is high for a potential national title contender, with emphasis on health, offensive line play, Arch Manning’s growth, and defensive versatility under new coordinator Will Muschamp.

Key Timestamps & Topics

00:00 – 01:04: Intro & Sponsor

• Welcome and FanDuel shoutout.
• Texas at +750 to win the national championship (3rd behind Ohio State and Notre Dame). Hosts agree these odds feel right; Texas needs to handle business early (especially Week 2) to stay in contention.

~01:04 – 07:20: How Good Can Texas Actually Be? (Ceiling & Floor)

• Ceiling: All-time great team. Potential undefeated season, CFP dominance, national title. Arch Manning (Heisman), Cam Coleman (Biletnikoff), strong O-line (Joe Moore), Rasheem Biles (Butkus), Bo Masco/DBs (Thorpe), 6+ NFL Draft picks (realistically up to 20 in best-case). Could surpass 2005 championship team in talent.
• Requirements: Healthy O-line/LB room, Arch’s development, Steve Sarkisian fixing in-game issues.
• Floor (realistic): 9-3. Could slip to 8-4 with bad luck, but not worse barring major injuries. Risks include O-line chemistry, Arch regression, defensive step-back with new coordinator/talent turnover.

07:20 – 13:00+: Offense/Defense Outlook, Roster Depth, Postseason Stakes

• Offense could be the best unit since Sark’s 2020 Alabama group: 68%+ completion for Arch, Coleman/Wingo duo, 40+ PPG potential.
• Depth concerns at LB, RB, WR (Coleman is the true difference-maker).
• Missing playoffs at 9-3 would create major pressure (hot seat for Sark, likely Kyle Flood departure). Good season could lead to coordinator promotions (Blake Gideon, Jeff Banks).

13:00 – 21:00: Roster Turnover & 2027 Outlook

• Significant losses expected (Coleman, Simmons, Goosby, etc.). Arch possibly returning in 2027.
• Big changes incoming regardless of outcome; hope for positive reasons (success leading to hires/draft stock).
• Emphasis on reloading for 2027.

21:00 – 35:00: Recruiting Roundup

• Two new commitments:
  • Tyler Alexander (DT, 4-star, ~#428): True nose tackle (6'3", 315 lbs) with athleticism. Fits Muschamp scheme perfectly. Chose Texas over more money from Colorado. Long-term starter potential (2028+).
  • Kyron Brown (WR, 3-star, ~#844): Speedy/twitchy athlete. Developmental piece; special teams contributor early, potential starter by Year 3. Foundation player.
• Class now at 18 commits, top-5 range. Texas pushing aggressively for 2027 (possible #1 class push, trading some 2026 depth for elite talent).
• Targets discussed: Dylan McGee (likely SMU), Montre Jackson (strong Texas lean), Junior Tupou, Neiman Lawrence, Landon Callis-Williams, Ishmael Kamara, Manchin Sales, etc. Secondary focus highlighted.

35:00 – End: Overlooked/Under-Talked Topics

• Elite RB Room: Relique Brown + Hollywood Smothers (potentially best or 2nd-best duo; Oregon comparison). Explosive, create yards in tight spaces. Derek Cooper adds power. Big upgrade over 2025.
• Positional Versatility: Massive edge. Secondary cross-training (Masco, Black, Fils-Aimé), multi-positional LBs/DL, offensive weapons (Bishop, Niblett, etc.). Allows best 11 on field more often. Wildcat/wild packages possible.
• Blake Gideon (DBs coach): Key returnee. Aggressive ball-playing style. Potential coordinator or head coaching candidate. Big upgrade/influence.
• Arch Manning Development: Not “fixed” yet. Strong finish to 2025 but accuracy/footwork/touch passes still works in progress (injury-related + natural). Patience needed early; huge growth expected.
• Colin Simmons: Generational pass rusher. Under-hyped nationally. Potential #1-2 overall pick; 15+ sack candidate. Complete game (run defense too).
• Special Teams: Elite potential. Ryan Niblett (returner), added depth (Brown, Bishop, etc.), blocking/coverage upside, Jeff Banks. Could produce TDs and flip fields.

Standout Quotes

• “This can be an all-time football team... you can absolutely go undefeated.” — Tommy
• “I think the ceiling of this team is probably better than the 2005 national championship team.” — Matthew
• On recruiting: “They just changed the eligibility rules... It could change the mathematics on how you build your roster.”
• On Arch: “Arch Manning is far from fixed.”
• On Simmons: “I think Colin Simmons is... ninety-five percent as good as his [position] is more important.”

Analysis & Takeaways (TexasVOCFB Lens)

• Optimism Index: Very high ceiling (national title favorite contention) but variance tied to health, O-line, and Arch’s consistency. First month (incl. Ohio State) is make-or-break for CFP path.
• Recruiting Strategy: Aggressive 2027 push possible (sell-out for talent). Balance high school + portal remains key; portal as “safety net,” not foundation.
• X-Factors: Muschamp defense + Sark offense synergy, special teams edge, depth/versatility.
• Fan Engagement: Hosts asked for ceiling/floor thoughts, recruiting targets, and overlooked topics.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host: Matthew Miller (TexasVOCFB / Texas Longhorns Live)

Length: ~7 minutes

Main Focus: Brian Swanson commitment recap + Texas OL recruiting outlook and next targets.

00:00 - 00:30 | Intro & Commitment Announcement

• Special edition episode celebrating Brian Swanson's commitment.
• Swanson: 4-star OT from South Oak Cliff (Dallas), commits to Texas Longhorns.
• Sponsored by FanDuel.

00:30 - 01:00 | Player Profile & Rankings

• Size: 6'5.5", 315 lbs.
• National ranking: #135 overall, #18 offensive tackle.
• Texas led for Swanson "the whole way" — rare in modern recruiting; no real doubt he would end up in the class.
• 15th commit in the class → bumps Texas to #13 nationally.

01:00 - 03:30 | Prospect Evaluation & Strengths

• Availability: 32 consecutive starts in high school. "The number one ability is availability."
• Versatility: Played LT, RT, LG, RG — all very well. Projects best as right tackle (not prototypical LT, but could prove wrong).
• Athleticism & Physicality:
  • Track background in shot put and discus (all-state level).
  • Strong lower + upper body.
  • Good footwork.
  • High motor: Finds extra work after assignment, loves being physical.
• High Floor/Ceiling:
  • At worst: B+ guard, potential third-team All-SEC.
  • MVP of Under Armour OL camp in Dallas (stood out vs. good competition).
• Development Timeline:
  • Unlikely to start as true freshman but expected in rotation.
  • Strong chance to play meaningfully in Year 2.
  • Could be among the 7 possible starters Kyle Flood references by end of freshman year.
  • If major OL turnover, he could even push for early playing time.

03:30 - 04:30 | Texas OL Outlook & 2026 Needs

• Compares this addition to Texas' strong 2022 high school OL class (all 5 played).
• Significant turnover expected after 2025 season:
  • Likely losing: Trevor Goosby, Lawrence Seymour, Connor Robertson.
  • Possible departures: Brandon Baker, Melvin Ciani (if they have big years).
• Minimum 3 starters to replace; potential for full OL rebuild.
• Texas needs another "2022-type" class with 5 high-upside guys who can contribute, rather than heavy portal reliance (1-2 portal guys ideal; 3+ risky).

04:30 - End | Who’s Next? Recruiting Targets

• John Meredith (#1 CB in the country):
  • Final three: Alabama, Texas A&M, Texas.
  • Miller predicts Texas (75-80% confidence / 8/10).
  • Announcement: June 19 (very soon).
  • Would push Texas into top 6-9 class range.
• Ishmael Kamara (next priority after Meredith):
  • Unofficial visit to Texas this weekend.
  • Current leader: Oregon; Texas possibly tied for 2nd with SMU.
  • Dead period approaching — no official visit soon.
  • "Gigantic deal" for OL depth.

Overall Takeaways / Miller’s Closing Thoughts:

• Big win for Texas OL recruiting.
• Class expected to largely wrap up by first week of season (typical Sark pattern), with only 1-3 spots left + flip opportunities.
• Optimistic about finishing 6-10 range (not top 5, but solid boost incoming).

Key Quotes:

• "This is a 2022 type year for Texas on the offensive line."
• "At worst, you're getting a B+ guard... third team all SEC. That's awesome."
• On Swanson's motor: "When he's done with his assignment, moving on to find extra work... loves to be physical."
• On class needs: "You need five guys that you think can play at your program."

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Quick Summary

The episode breaks down Texas' most impactful true freshmen for 2026, projects the offensive depth chart (Week 1 vs. end-of-season), and features a detailed LSU preview with Lewis Johnson. Emphasis on talent infusion, competition battles, and key matchups ahead of the season. FanDuel sponsorship highlights College World Series betting.

00:00 – 01:10: Intro & Sponsorship

• Welcome to Episode 106.
• FanDuel sponsor shoutout: Texas baseball +600 to win College World Series (first since 2005, same year as football title).
• Hosts discuss upcoming games (vs. Georgia, Oklahoma) and broader summer sports.

01:12 – ~09:00: Most Impactful Freshmen for Texas

Hosts each rank their top 3 (similar lists, slight order differences). Focus on immediate impact potential.

Consensus Top 3:

• #3: Tyler Atkinson (LB)
  • Physical and smart; capable of inside LB reps.
  • Limited early snaps due to transfers (Darius Snow, Marcus Boswell), but injury depth role expected.
  • Strong mentally; big jump from high school (7A Georgia). Potential pass-rush specialist.
  • Comparison: Could finish strong like Anthony Smith.
  • Other mentions: Samari Matthews, Richard Wesley, Jamarian Carlson.
• #2 / #1: Derek Cooper (RB)
  • Big, physical back (220 lbs); ready for early carries.
  • Needed in red zone, 3rd down, short-yardage situations.
  • Could steal snaps from Relique Brown / Hollywood Smothers.
  • Confidence key; potential CJ Baxter-type impact (without needing 700+ yards).
  • Bullish long-term outlook.
• #1 / #2: Jermaine Bishop (ATH / WR gadget)
  • Downright special; best offensive playmaker Sark has signed at Texas.
  • Touches 3-7x per game (rushes, catches, returns); gadget player with “wow” moments.
  • Could steal slot reps; forces creative usage.
  • Loaded WR room but too talented to keep off field. Potential 500+ total yards; 1,000+ sophomore year.
  • Athleticism comparable to Xavier Worthy (route-running gap). Future starter in 2027.

Viewer Prompt: Share your most impactful freshman (this year or long-term).

~09:00 – ~24:40: Texas Offensive Depth Chart Projections

Week 1 vs. End-of-Season Outlook. Competition and health will shift things (bye week comfort expected).

• QB: Arch Manning (1). KJ Lacey firm #2. Debate on #3 (MJ Morris experience vs. Diabell upside). Diabell special; redshirt management key. Possible Lacey vs. Diabell battle for future.
• RB: Relique Brown / Hollywood Smothers (co-starters or “OR”; 60/40 or closer split). Derek Cooper rising. Michael Terry (special teams/flex). James Simon (potential RB3/4; undervalued; more carries than Terry?). Depth: If injuries, Simon jumps. (Note: Christian Clark transfer mention.)
• OL: Starting 5 locked (Goosby, Seymour, Robertson, Baker, Siani) if healthy. Depth needs (Dylan Secorchi/Sikorski, Jaden Chapman, Andre Kojo, Jordan Coleman, Jackson Christian at C backup, etc.). Pass protection strength; run blocking improvement needed. Health critical (past Sark luck noted).
• WR: Starters locked (Emmitt Mosley, Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo) if healthy. Fourth spot battle: Sterling Burkhalter trending up; competition with Kalik Lockett (spring miss), Daylon McCutcheon. Jermaine Bishop could push in. Depth elevation key for elite group.
• TE: Strong “starting trio” floor (highest on team after WR?). Michael Masunis, Nick Townsend (well-rounded; athlete), Spencer Shannon (elite blocker). Multiple-TE usage expected. Townsend end-around potential.

Viewer Prompt: Thoughts on depth chart; who elevates this summer?

~24:40 – End: LSU Preview w/ Lewis Johnson

Lane Kiffin Hire & 2026 Outlook:

• Fans all-in on Kiffin; strong portal class (best in NIL/portal era).
• Success: 9-3 solid (new pieces); playoff possible (10-2 ceiling). Talent + coaching = high upside, but integration time needed.

Key LSU Players:

• Defense: Blake Baker improvements continuing; potential elite unit. DJ Pickett (soph CB, 5-star) big role (caution: not instant Mansour Delane). DL depth critical.
• Offense: New OL/QB. QB: Leavitt (experienced; ahead on foot recovery). Backup: Hudson Longstreet #2 (improved in spring).
• RB: Dylan Jones (spring leader) / Harlem Berry (1A; open-field/receiving).
• WR: No clear #1 yet. Jace Brown (versatile/established), Winnie Watkins (most consistent, slot), Jackson Harris (X-factor, big body/speed).

Texas-LSU Matchup Notes:

• Death Valley: 4-point home advantage in big games (revenge vs. A&M, Alabama hype; Texas ranks high on excitement).
• Advantages: LSU home/atmosphere + Kiffin play-calling/balance; Texas talent (Seaton/Simmons edge, Coleman vs. Pickett).
• Lewis confidence: ~5.5/10 (slight LSU edge at home); hosts lean LSU currently but note massive variables.

Closing: Excitement for LSU/Ohio State games; Neyland + Death Valley road tests. Like/subscribe prompts.

Key Takeaways & Analysis

• Freshman class depth strong; skill positions (RB/WR) poised for early contributions.
• OL stability + health = championship potential.
• Sark’s offense: Creative usage of talent (gadget, multiple TEs).
• Big 2026 tests: Integration speed, depth, road environments.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overall Summary Texas lands its second commitment in two days with Jabbarius "Chicken" Garror (Vigor HS, Mobile, AL), a highly productive 4-star edge rusher (No. 110 nationally, No. 12 edge, No. 4 in Alabama). This follows Kasi Curry’s commitment, signaling momentum in the 2026 class. Bresee highlights Garror’s elite athleticism, production, positional versatility, and motor despite being slightly undersized at 6'3", 220 lbs. He projects as a dynamic, high-upside defender who can contribute early in multiple roles.

Timestamped Key Segments

00:00 - 00:08

• Introduction to the special edition episode.
• Back-to-back commitments: Kasi Curry (yesterday) and now Jabbarius Garror.

00:08 - 00:40

• Recruit Profile:
  • 4-star, top-110 nationally, elite edge prospect from Alabama.
  • 6'3", 220 lbs — noted as a bit undersized but with exceptional production.
  • 42.5 sacks + 88.5 TFLs over the last two years.
  • Sophomore All-American (MaxPreps), Alabama Lineman of the Year (twice).
  • Also played tight end. Nickname: "Chicken" (lifelong).

00:40 - 01:55

• Athletic & Technical Traits:
  • Remarkable first step and athleticism off the line.
  • Elite, quick, strong hands — hard for OL to engage and control him.
  • Excellent bend off the edge.
  • Strong motor; makes plays even when not initially involved (strips, forced fumbles, TDs).
  • Solid length and wide body for his size — not easily overpowered.

01:55 - 03:00

• Positional Versatility:
  • Can play off-ball LB (comfortable, solid in coverage).
  • Played wide-9 edge and 3-tech DT.
  • Strong coverage skills for a pass rusher (better than many big rushers; can handle TEs/slot on short routes).
  • Good hands as a TE in high school (won’t be a primary receiving threat at next level but useful in coverage drops).

03:00 - 05:00

• Development & Scheme Fit:
  • Sophomore year: More athletic, downhill, off-ball LB style.
  • Junior year: Shifted to traditional edge, improved run defense, patience, and use of length. Shows coachability.
  • Projects to add 20-30 lbs.
  • Potential roles: Hybrid (Trey Moore-style), true edge (Colin Simmons comp), or mix of OLB/edge/DT depending on growth.
  • Elite athleticism should help him handle SEC size demands.

05:00 - 06:30

• Class Context:
  • Joins Cam Hall and Derwin Fields — creates versatile edge trio (bigger bodies in Hall/Fields + attacking smaller guy in Garror).
  • Top 6 commits from 5 different states (LA, CA, TX, AL, etc.).
  • Texas continuing national recruiting approach (also MS, AZ, NJ).
  • Likely ends edge recruiting for the class unless elite options remain.

06:30 - 08:45

• Immediate Impact & Outlook:
  • Playmaker who can contribute from Day 1 in right packages; high floor for production as freshman/sophomore.
  • Part of a heating-up class after a slower start — possible John Meredith commitment soon.
  • Strong job by Steve Sarkeesian & staff. Momentum building on the Forty Acres.

Key Quotes / Takeaways

• “One of those guys that you’re not going to see the offensive lineman make contact with him and take him for a ride very often.”
• “A really good motor… If you’re going to play that position at that size, he very much has that.”
• “The options are totally open for this kid… I think he can be a really productive player.”
• “Elite athlete, special versatility — one of those things that you can’t really have enough of on the defensive side of the ball.”
• “Texas locks up Jabarius Chicken Garor… really, really talented player.”

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Summary

TexasVOCFB breaks down the major commitment of Kasi Currie, a highly touted 4-star defensive lineman (with offensive line upside) from Sierra Canyon High School (CA). The hosts view this as a potential catalyst for a recruiting momentum shift ("landslide") for the Longhorns, addressing needs on both sides of the line while highlighting Currie's elite athleticism, nastiness, and versatility.

Timestamped Key Points

0:01 – 0:42

• Special edition episode reacting to breaking news ~1 hour prior.
• Kasi Currie (Sierra Canyon HS, CA) commits to Texas.
• Measurables: 6'5", 310 lbs.
• Rankings: #7 recruit in California, #6 DL, Top-2 overall on 247, strong 4-star composite.
• Other finalists: Georgia, Oregon, Ohio State.

0:49 – 1:34

• Comp from Andrew Ivins (247): Kaden Wallace (Patriots OT).
• Elite two-way athlete: Plays OL (Tackle/Guard) and DL (1-tech, 3/4-tech).
• High-level competition at Sierra Canyon; expected to produce more D1 talent.
• Extremely versatile and movable across positions.

1:43 – 2:55

• Texas recruiting theme: Seeking "nasty," mean, physical, and ferocious players.
• Currie fits perfectly — aggressive finisher who plays with attitude.
• Strong get-off on DL; rarely blocked cleanly; consistently disrupts in the backfield.
• Patient and gap-sound in the run game; doesn't chase big plays at the expense of assignment.

3:06 – 4:05

• Smart player who understands scheme and priorities.
• High ceiling on both sides of the ball.
• Comparisons: Justice Terry level talent; could develop into Byron Murphy (DL) or Kelvin Banks (OL).
• Positional versatility is valuable but requires choosing one side long-term (won't play both on the line).

4:12 – 5:14

• Potential future at offensive tackle (longer development path but high reward).
• Could contribute early on DL.
• Raw but highly capable; right coaching/positioning = first-round NFL potential.
• Texas OL and DL both have future needs (losses expected: Hero Cano, Alex January, etc.).

5:21 – 6:00

• First DL commit in the class.
• Second-highest rated commit behind Ethan Royal.
• Signals the start of a "massive landslide" for Texas recruiting.
• Momentum builder to restore fan confidence.

6:09 – 7:37

• Prediction: Jabberious Gor (edge) expected to commit the next day (pushed up date after Texas visit).
• John Meredith also expected soon.
• Optimism for continued hot streak.
• Currie expected to be a long-term impact player regardless of side.
• Deeper dive planned for Tuesday episode.
• Closing: "Hook 'em."

Main Takeaways & Analysis

• Player Profile: Rare two-way line prospect with elite size, athleticism, aggression, and football IQ. High-upside project who can anchor either line.
• Scheme Fit: Brings the physicality and nastiness Texas has lacked in recent years, especially in the trenches.
• Recruiting Momentum: Positioned as the spark for a strong close to the cycle — multiple commitments imminent.
• Development Path: DL for quicker impact vs. OT for higher long-term ceiling. Staff will evaluate based on roster needs.
• Overall Grade for Texas: Massive win — blue-chip talent with star potential who addresses critical line depth.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overall Summary

The hosts discuss Texas' strong but not yet elite 2027 recruiting position (12 commitments, top 25 class), predicting a likely top 7-10 finish. They emphasize building a solid foundation with high-floor players while pursuing elite targets. Key themes include patience in recruiting, the importance of immediate contributors via high school and portal, and adapting strategies like the "Indiana model" (portal emphasis, adjusted practice schedules, health management). They highlight Texas' transfer portal success as a major strength heading into 2026. Optimism is high for both recruiting and on-field performance.

Key Segments & Timestamped Notes

00:00 – 01:20: Intro & Playoff Odds

• Sponsored by FanDuel. Texas at -185 to make playoffs (8th nationally), behind Georgia despite SEC title predictions.
• Discussion: Tough schedule could lead to 9-3 record missing playoffs (echoing prior year). Miami has favorable schedule.

01:20 – 03:10: Recruiting Overview

• Texas ahead of schedule with 12 commitments in top 25 (post-Bryson Thrower).
• Hosts predict final class ranking: Top 7-10 (Bresee leans 5-7; Miller top 10). Fans impatient after big names like Easton Royal/Brock Williams.
• Strategy: Strong baseline of 3-stars + developmental guys; focus later on premium targets (more volatility). Foundation especially strong among lesser-hyped 3-stars.

03:10 – 07:00: Easton Royal (Elite WR Prospect)

• Recent LSU visit went well; Texas remains "first love" and gets final official visit.
• Top choices: Texas, LSU, Florida (canceled Ole Miss).
• Consensus: Texas holds strong (no flip yet). LSU/Ed Orgeron strong with in-state talent, but Royal wants his own path. Final Texas visit pivotal. Likely stays Longhorn.
• Impact: Pairs well with near-certain Monshin Sales addition.

07:00 – 10:30: John Meredith (No. 1 CB Prospect)

• Momentum strongly toward Texas (was A&M lock months ago).
• Expected commitment by early August. Prototype for Will Muschamp scheme (physical, coverage skills). Immediate contributor, Devin Sanchez-level talent, potential top-10 NFL pick.
• ~80% chance to Texas. A&M pivoted to other CBs. Possible late Miami/SMU visits (NIL angle), but Texas favored. SMU skepticism until they land a similar caliber.

10:30 – 13:00: Jalen Brewster (No. 1 Overall Prospect, DL)

• Strong Texas Tech lean (family trust, land bought in Lubbock).
• Visiting LSU/Texas; LSU hard to turn down. Hosts believe he stays with Tech but acknowledge movement. Texas threw hat in ring for elite talent but unlikely to overpay via land buyout. Likely Texas Tech.

13:00 – 15:30: Brian Swanson (OL) & Offensive Line Needs

• High priority; Texas needs immediate contributors (guard + tackle) due to potential 2026 departures (Goosby, Siano, Robertson, possibly Baker).
• Swanson trending Texas but SMU challenge. Critical class for Sark era—build through HS, avoid annual portal reliance. Reed Ramsey to Auburn noted. Potential with Ishmael Kamara.

15:30 – 17:40: Monterey (Montre) Jackson (CB) & DB Class

• Trending Texas; official visit this weekend key. Top 5 includes Texas.
• With Meredith + young talent (Kobe Black, etc.), DB room set. Trenton Blaylock (Texas/Oklahoma 50/50). Jackson ~90% to Texas.

17:40 – 19:30: Sir Rod Baker (RB) & Backfield Outlook

• Texas needs big-time RB (post-Brown/Smothers). Battle vs. A&M/Tech.
• Enhances depth with Derek Cooper, Michael Terry, James Simon, Noah Roberts. Not desperate but worthwhile for dynamism. Price/NIL factor.

19:30 – 22:00: Additional Targets (Jabarius Garora, Junior Tuopo, Neiman Lawrence)

• Garora (Edge): Texas strong; commitment possibly July 4.
• Tuopo (S): Texas leader post-visit.
• Lawrence (2028 QB): Strong Texas lean; potential class leader. Relationship with D'Abel helps.

22:00 – 37:00: Top 5 Transfer Portal Additions

• Bresee #5: Bo Masco (CB) – Versatile, dynamic, All-Big Ten potential.
• Miller #5: Rasheem Biles (LB) – Playmaking, versatility (former WR/S).
• Bresee #4 / Miller #3: Relique Brown (RB) – Ceiling-raiser, explosive, reliable.
• Miller #4: Bo Masco.
• Bresee #3 / Miller #2: Cam Coleman (WR) – Dominant X-receiver, game-changer in Sark system. NFL draft debate with Jeremiah Smith.
• Bresee #2: Rasheem Biles – Replaces Anthony Hill production; havoc creator with Simmons.
• Bresee #1: Lawrence Seymour (OL) – Stability for O-line average/great.
• Miller #1: Melvin Siani (OL) – Answers RT/RG questions, protection for Arch Manning.
• Overall: Texas had one of the best portal classes nationally.

37:00 – End: Adopting the Indiana Model & Closing

• Sark comments on Indiana (Cignetti): Portal, reduced practice time, health management, easier early schedule.
• Discussion: Possible schedule tweaks (Notre Dame/others in jeopardy?). Benefits of SEC vs. easier path. Practice efficiency key.
• Adapt to your roster (e.g., Arch Manning's football IQ). Sark's adaptability praised but needs quick in-game adjustments.
• Optimism: Texas well-positioned; portal + recruiting foundation strong. Fans urged to like/subscribe.

Key Takeaways & Analysis

• Recruiting Outlook: Solid foundation; top-10 realistic with Meredith, Jackson, Swanson, etc. Patience needed on elites.
• Portal Impact: Immediate starters/depth (especially O-line, skill positions) key to contention.
• Program Direction: Blend of HS development + portal aggression; potential efficiency tweaks.
• Hosts' Tone: Positive, detailed, fan-focused with balanced realism on challenges (schedule, injuries, NIL).

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host: Matthew Miller

Date Aired: June 6, 2026

Length: ~6:10

Key Topic: Texas Longhorns land 2027 WR commit Briceson Thrower (Fournette, TX), their 12th commitment in the class, pushing Texas back into the top 25 nationally.

Quick Summary

Matthew Miller breaks down Texas's commitment from 3-star (borderline 4-star) wide receiver Briceson Thrower (6'3", 175 lbs). He highlights Thrower's length, athleticism, quick feet, and big-play potential as a developmental fit in the Steve Sarkisian offense. Miller views him as a patient project who won't contribute immediately but has high upside if he develops and stays. The pick-up is praised for adding quality depth against strong competition (Illinois, Texas Tech, A&M, Ohio State).

Timestamped Key Notes

• 00:00 - 00:24: Intro & announcement. Texas lands WR Briceson Thrower — 12th commitment, back in top 25 for 2027 class. Call to like/subscribe.
• 00:24 - 00:50: Physical profile & initial scouting.
  • 6'3", 175 lbs from Fournette, TX.
  • Very long, lengthy, athletic with very quick feet.
  • More of a project but fits Sarkeesian offense well.
• 00:50 - 01:15: Playing style & strengths.
  • Screen game threat who can take it for big gains.
  • Strong in contested catches (wins between multiple defenders).
  • Good but not elite hands; route running needs work (not crisp enough).
  • Exciting, fun prospect but won't compete for playing time right away (especially with Easton Royals potentially returning).
• 01:15 - 02:12: Development timeline & recruitment context.
  • Patient player who could shine in 1-2+ years.
  • Beat Illinois, Texas Tech, A&M, Ohio State.
  • Miller emphasizes these are strong programs (Illinois develops WRs well — cites Pat Bryant; Ohio State strong in NIL/WRs).
  • Good pickup in the modern recruiting landscape where you mix immediate-impact guys with developmental projects.
• 02:12 - 03:15: Realistic outlook & stats.
  • 2025 stats: 32 rec, 524 yds, 5 TDs in HS games.
  • Expects bigger 2026: 50-60 catches, 1,000+ yds, 10-15 TDs possible.
  • Closer to 4-star than true 3-star in his view.
  • Long, good catch radius, quick off the line. 100m time: 10.76 (quick but not burner; between Khaliq Lockett and Easton Royals, closer to Lockett).
• 03:15 - 04:17: Comparisons & long-term projection.
  • Similar to Khaliq Lockett (quick feet, contested catches).
  • Could improve speed in Texas S&C (potentially to 10.5).
  • Likely grows to 6'4". High long-term excitement if he sticks.
• 04:17 - 05:00: Retention concerns & optimism.
  • Acknowledges risk of transfer if playing time doesn't come.
  • But believes he will play and be a good contributor if he stays.
• 05:00 - End: Broader class context & closing.
  • 12th commit; Texas trending toward top 10 class (7-12 range likely).
  • Need OL commits soon (mentions Brian Swanson, Kennedy Brown, Ishmael Kamara, John Meredith).
  • 5-star QB trending Texas over A&M.
  • Philosophy: Mix high-end portal additions with developmental HS recruits for sustained success (citing recent national champs).
  • Strong optimism for 2025 national title chances due to portal work.
  • Final call to action: Like, subscribe, comment on Thrower/next targets. Joins Tuesdays at 8 PM ET with co-host Tommy.