Greg McElroy Challenges Texas’ Ranking, Citing Potential Flaws in Their Playoff Push
In a bold statement that has generated significant buzz across college football circles, ESPN analyst and former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy recently challenged Texas’ ranking in the latest College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings. Despite the Longhorns’ impressive season so far, McElroy expressed concerns over what he perceives as potential flaws in their game, suggesting that the team might not be as playoff-worthy as their current high ranking implies.
Texas has been one of the standout teams in the country this season, with a 9-1 record and victories over ranked opponents like Alabama. They’ve been propelled by the play of sophomore quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has shown considerable growth after an early-season injury. However, McElroy, who offers in-depth analysis on ESPN’s college football coverage, believes that despite their strong performance, Texas has some vulnerabilities that could ultimately cost them a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The Case Against Texas’ Ranking
While McElroy acknowledged Texas’ talent and strong season, he argued that the Longhorns’ ranking, particularly in the context of their playoff aspirations, may be inflated. His main critique centered on the consistency of their performances. While Texas has secured big wins, including their season-opening victory over Alabama, McElroy pointed to the Longhorns’ narrow victories over lesser opponents and struggles in key moments as potential weaknesses.
For instance, McElroy highlighted a midseason win over teams like Baylor and Kansas State, which were both closer than many analysts anticipated. While these victories still count in the standings, McElroy believes that the Longhorns failed to impose their dominance in situations where they should have. In his view, Texas’ occasional inability to finish games with authority raises questions about their ability to handle the heightened pressure of the playoff environment.
Another issue McElroy raised was the Longhorns’ inconsistency in the trenches, particularly on the offensive line. Although Texas has one of the most talented rosters in the country, McElroy argued that their offensive line has sometimes struggled to protect Ewers and establish a consistent running game. Against elite defenses, these breakdowns could be problematic. McElroy noted that Texas’ offensive line might not be ready to hold up against the top-tier defensive units they would likely face in the playoff. He suggested that teams like Michigan, Georgia, or Ohio State—who have physical, well-coached defensive fronts—could exploit these weaknesses.
Ewers’ Development and Leadership
A key part of Texas’ success has been the development of quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has shown significant growth after missing a chunk of last season due to injury. Ewers has flashed his potential, throwing for over 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns while leading the Longhorns to some marquee victories. However, McElroy pointed out that Ewers still has room for improvement in terms of decision-making and consistency.
While Ewers has made spectacular plays throughout the season, McElroy argued that he has occasionally shown lapses in judgment—especially when under pressure. Against some of the top defenses Texas will face down the stretch, McElroy warned that Ewers’ tendency to force throws or make risky decisions could be exposed. In his opinion, Texas needs Ewers to consistently play at an elite level, particularly if they hope to compete with the best teams in the country when the playoff rolls around.
The Playoff Picture and Texas’ Path Forward
As the College Football Playoff race heats up, McElroy’s critique places extra pressure on Texas to prove that they deserve their place among the top teams in the country. The Longhorns’ remaining schedule will be critical in determining their playoff future. With a regular-season finale against a highly-ranked team like Texas Tech or a potential Big 12 Championship matchup, Texas will need to demonstrate that they can put together a complete, dominant performance—something that has been somewhat elusive this season.
If the Longhorns are to silence McElroy’s doubts and solidify their playoff resume, they must address their inconsistencies in key areas. McElroy’s analysis suggests that Texas’ path to the playoff will be more challenging than their ranking suggests, and a strong showing in their final games will be essential.
The National Perspective and CFP Rankings
While McElroy’s comments might appear controversial, they reflect a larger conversation that has been brewing about Texas’ place in the College Football Playoff picture. The CFP rankings are always a topic of debate, and teams like Texas, who are right on the edge of the playoff conversation, find themselves under intense scrutiny. With programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia in the mix, the margin for error is slim for teams with flaws that could be exposed in a high-stakes playoff scenario.
The Longhorns’ strong resume, which includes a win over Alabama and a solid conference record, has earned them a place near the top of the rankings. But as McElroy suggests, their lack of consistency—particularly in crucial moments—may leave them vulnerable as they aim to secure one of the coveted four playoff spots.
Conclusion
Greg McElroy’s challenge to Texas’ ranking is a reminder that in college football, no team is truly safe from scrutiny, even if they are sitting at the top of the standings. While the Longhorns have been impressive in many ways this season, McElroy’s analysis highlights important areas where they could falter as the playoff race intensifies. With games against tough opponents ahead, Texas will need to prove that they can play a complete, consistent game to justify their lofty ranking and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.
