This week, the Houston Chronicle rolled out its new rankings for the 13 FBS college football teams in Texas. Texas A&M snagged the top spot, and honestly, it’s hard to argue with that.
The Aggies have been rolling, with quarterback Marcel Reed leading the charge. They’re looking like a lock for the top three in the next AP poll.
Right now, Texas A&M is the only unbeaten team in the SEC. Folks are starting to talk about that 1994 season under R.C. Slocum—though, thankfully, there aren’t any NCAA sanctions hanging over their heads this time.
Elsewhere, it’s been a real mixed bag for other Texas teams. The Red Raiders lost a heartbreaker to Arizona State, and the Longhorns have been leaning on their defense to bail out a sputtering offense.
Texas A&M Aggies: A Season to Remember
Texas A&M has been on a tear, undefeated so far and putting up points thanks to Marcel Reed. Their latest win over Arkansas kept them as the SEC’s lone unbeaten team.
Next up: a big showdown with LSU. That one could really lock in their national standing if they pull it off.
The Road to Perfection
The last time Aggies fans saw a start like this was back in 1994, during the Southwest Conference days. That squad finished 10-0-1 but couldn’t play in a bowl game because of NCAA trouble.
This time, no such drama. NIL rules mean players can actually get paid, so no one’s looking over their shoulder for violations.
Red Raiders: A Tough Loss in Tempe
The Texas Tech Red Raiders just can’t catch a break—Arizona State edged them out in a wild finish. Backup QB Will Hammond nearly pulled off a comeback, but it wasn’t enough.
Arizona State’s Sam Leavitt led a clutch 75-yard drive to ice the game, 26-22. Sometimes, it just doesn’t go your way.
Quarterback Carousel
With Behren Morton sidelined, Hammond was thrown into the fire and almost got it done. Still, the constant QB changes are starting to wear on the Red Raiders as they grind through the Big 12.
Houston Cougars: Bowl Eligibility Achieved
Coach Willie Fritz has the Houston Cougars back in a bowl for the first time since 2022, thanks to a win over Arizona. Next weekend, they’re headed to Tempe for what could be a real test.
Defense and Special Teams Shine
If you’re into defense and special teams, Houston’s your team. Their latest win was all about making big plays when it counted, and you have to wonder if their opponents just weren’t ready for it.
Longhorns: Defensive Dominance
The Texas Longhorns are leaning hard on their defense and special teams. Against Kentucky, they had a huge goal-line stand, two long punt returns, and three field goals—pretty much the story of the game.
Offensive Questions
But let’s be honest, the offense under Steve Sarkisian hasn’t been inspiring. Relying on defense and special teams to win can only get you so far, and the offense needs to pick it up.
TCU Horned Frogs: Finding Ways to Win
Coach Sonny Dykes just has a knack for winning ugly. TCU’s 42-36 win over Baylor wasn’t pretty, but it counts all the same.
Sometimes, grit is all you need.
Quarterback Leadership
TCU’s quarterback keeps finding ways to make plays in tough moments. The Horned Frogs are still a tough out in the Big 12, even if they make you sweat for it.
SMU Mustangs: Rising Star Quarterback
SMU coach Rhett Lashlee can’t say enough about Kevin Jennings. The kid threw for 290 yards and two touchdowns in a 35-24 win over Clemson.
That offense? It’s electric. SMU’s a fun team to watch right now.
Exciting Games
Mustangs games have been wild—points, big plays, the whole deal. Their quick-strike offense is a big reason for their recent wins.
Baylor Bears: Thrilling Finishes
The Baylor Bears have been living on the edge. Against TCU, they almost pulled off a wild comeback, scoring twice in the final minutes but still coming up short.
Close Calls
Baylor’s year is full of nail-biters. They’re 2-2 in games decided in the last minute, and you’ve got to respect their fight.
Other Texas Teams: Challenges and Opportunities
It hasn’t been smooth sailing for everyone. The Texas State Bobcats have dropped three straight one-score games, and UTSA just can’t seem to find their groove.
There’s still time, but these teams need to figure things out fast if they want a shot at a bowl.
Conclusion
The latest Texas college football rankings really show just how much variety there is in the state. Texas A&M’s unbeaten streak stands out, while Baylor keeps fans on their toes with some wild finishes.
The Longhorns are making headlines for their defense. It feels like every week brings something new, and who knows what’s next?
If you want a full breakdown of the rankings, check out the Houston Chronicle.
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