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Kirk Herbstreit Raises Red Flag on No. 1 Texas While Praising Big Ten Team That Has Built Stronger Playoff Case

ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit has cast doubt on the No. 1 ranking of Texas Longhorns, citing persistent offensive inconsistencies that have undermined their otherwise strong season.

While the Longhorns' defense has shown promise, their offense has struggled with execution, particularly in high-pressure games. Texas quarterback Arch Manning has thrown for 862 yards and seven touchdowns this season, but his performance against Tennessee—where he completed just 201 yards with no touchdowns, an interception, and six sacks—highlighted the team's vulnerability.

The Longhorns also committed 11 penalties in that game, including costly infractions that handed Tennessee critical momentum. Despite beating Ohio State in a one-point thriller, Herbstreit argues the Buckeyes have demonstrated more reliable play over their first five games, including a dominant 59-3 win over Kent State and a 31-14 victory at Iowa.

Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin has been a standout, throwing for 1,530 yards and 13 touchdowns with only one interception, while the Buckeyes have shown improved consistency since their narrow loss to Texas. With Texas' offensive struggles and penalty issues, Herbstreit now views Ohio State as the more convincing contender heading into the playoff picture.

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