How the University of Texas Football Program Is Dominating the 2023 Season

Watching the University of Texas football program this 2023 season has been nothing short of a masterclass in how to build a dominant team. I’ve followed college football for years, and what’s happening in Austin right now reminds me of the relentless hustle you sometimes see in other sports—like when a player such as Estil, fresh from the PBA Draft Combine, talks about bringing that same non-stop energy to crack the Ginebra roster. That mindset—refusing to let up, playing every down like it’s your last—is exactly what’s fueling Texas’s incredible run this year. They aren’t just winning; they’re imposing their will, and as someone who’s studied team dynamics across different leagues, I can tell you this doesn’t happen by accident.

From the very first game, it was clear this Texas squad was different. Last season, they finished with a respectable 8–5 record, but you could see the pieces falling into place. This year, though, they’ve exploded out of the gate, starting with a statement win over Alabama—a game I rewatched twice just to appreciate the defensive discipline. The Longhorns are currently sitting at 7–0, with key victories that include a 34–30 thriller against Oklahoma and a dominant 42–14 rout of Kansas. What stands out to me isn’t just the raw talent, which is undeniable, but the cohesion. The offense, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, has been surgical, averaging over 480 yards per game. Ewers himself has thrown for around 2,200 yards and 18 touchdowns so far, with a completion rate hovering near 68%. Those aren’t just numbers; they’re evidence of a system that’s clicking on all cylinders.

But let’s talk about that hustle factor, because it’s what separates good teams from great ones. I remember watching the PBA Draft Combine highlights and seeing how Estil emphasized bringing the same intensity to every drill—that’s the kind of culture Texas has built. Their defense, for instance, isn’t just big and fast; they play with a chip on their shoulder. Players like linebacker Jaylan Ford are everywhere on the field, racking up tackles and forcing turnovers. In their matchup against Oklahoma, it was Ford’s fourth-quarter interception that sealed the deal. Stats show the defense has allowed just 17.3 points per game, which is a massive improvement from last year’s 24.5. When you combine that with an offense that can score in bunches, you get a team that feels unstoppable. Personally, I love how they’ve balanced explosive plays with methodical drives—it’s a sign of mature coaching, something that’s often missing in college ball.

Recruiting has played a huge role, too. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff have nailed it in the transfer portal, bringing in guys who fit their system perfectly. Take wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, for example. He transferred from Georgia and has already caught 7 touchdown passes, giving Ewers a reliable red-zone target. It’s not just about stacking stars, though; it’s about finding players who buy into the culture. I’ve spoken to a few insiders close to the program, and they all say the same thing: the locker room is tight-knit, with veterans mentoring younger players. That’s reminiscent of what Estil mentioned about proving himself at the Ginebra roster—it’s that underdog mentality, even when you’re on top. Texas might be a blue-blood program, but they’re playing like they have something to prove every week.

Of course, no season is without its challenges. The Big 12 is stacked this year, and games against teams like TCU and Iowa State won’t be walkovers. I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical early on when they struggled to put away Wyoming in Week 3, winning 31–10 but looking sluggish at times. However, that game taught me something: this team knows how to adjust. They’ve shown resilience, bouncing back from slow starts to dominate second halves. It’s a trait I admire because, in my experience covering sports, the best teams aren’t always the ones that start fast, but the ones that finish strong. Looking ahead, the matchup against Oklahoma State in November could be a trap game, but if Texas maintains this level of focus, I’m confident they’ll handle it.

Off the field, the program’s influence is growing, too. Social media engagement for Texas football has skyrocketed, with a 40% increase in followers across platforms since August. That kind of buzz matters—it helps recruiting and builds a global brand. As a fan, it’s exciting to see, but as an analyst, I appreciate the strategic side. They’re leveraging NIL deals to keep top talent, which is crucial in today’s landscape. For instance, I’ve heard through sources that several starters have secured six-figure endorsements, reducing the temptation to jump to the NFL early. It’s a smart move that ensures continuity, something rare in college athletics.

In the end, what makes the 2023 Texas Longhorns so special is their blend of talent, culture, and that relentless hustle. They play with a purpose that’s infectious, and as we head into the final stretch of the season, I’m betting they’ll not only make the College Football Playoff but could very well win it all. It’s a story that transcends sports—a reminder that when you combine skill with heart, greatness follows. Just like Estil aiming to crack that roster in the PBA, Texas is proving that opportunity met with preparation leads to dominance. And honestly, as someone who’s seen plenty of teams rise and fall, I can’t wait to see how far this one goes.