Part of the excitement for the upcoming college football season may stem from the release of ‘College Football 25’ and recent SEC media days, but the anticipation for the new season is definitely building.
The Texas Longhorns, transitioning to the formidable SEC in 2024, face significant challenges. However, this shift might come at an opportune moment, given that the season will be the first under the new 12-team Playoff format. This change means teams can afford to lose one or even two games without their playoff hopes being dashed, unlike the previous four-team format.
One major challenge for Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns is the considerable loss of key offensive players. The team has lost top wide receivers Xavier Worthy and AD Mitchell, tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, and running back Jonothan Brooks to the 2024 NFL Draft.
Despite these departures, Sarkisian has addressed the offensive needs by bringing in three highly talented wide receivers through the transfer portal this offseason: Isaiah Bond, Matthew Golden, and Silas Bolden.
After SEC media days, 247 Sports offered bold predictions for each conference team in 2024. Brad Crawford of 247 Sports highlighted that the Longhorns’ wide receiver room could be the best in college football, stating:
“Silas Bolden, a talented slot receiver from Oregon State, might not even start at Texas this season, which illustrates the depth Steve Sarkisian has at wide receiver. This group is the best he’s had since his time at Alabama in 2020, where he helped DeVonta Smith win the Heisman Trophy. Johntay Cook II, a former five-star recruit, is competing with Bolden for a starting spot, while Alabama transfer Isaiah Bond and former Houston star Matthew Golden are expected to be key contributors. Quinn Ewers will have a wealth of receiving options at his disposal.”