The Ultimate Matchup: Spartans vs. Longhorns
Tomorrow, September 6th, the Spartans will face the Longhorns at DKR Texas Memorial Stadium at 12 p.m. When two teams collide with contrasting abilities, the game could go either way. San Jose State averaged 14.0 points during the first game of this season against Michigan. It is very early in the season, and this game could be a step forward for the Spartans. The Longhorns have a chance to redeem themselves after Week One, after losing to Ohio State with a score of 14-7.
Coming off a strong 2024 season with a 7-1 conference record, Texas entered the season with high hopes. After dropping their opener by 7 points, the Longhorns are off to a shaky start. Though it's far too early to hit the panic button, if Texas locks in, especially up front, they remain a serious threat. The offensive line is a major storyline with four new starters: Trevor Goosby, Connor Stroh, DJ Campbell, and Cole Hutson. Their emergence brings both promise and uncertainty. On one hand, fresh talent could elevate the offense. On the other hand, cohesion and consistency will take time.
With Arch Manning, who led Texas to dominant wins like the 51-3 rout of Louisiana-Monroe, continuing as the starting quarterback, the Longhorns enter the game with high expectations. Their defense remains one of the most formidable units in college football, but deep concerns linger. Only two scholarship interior defensive linemen return, leaving Texas vulnerable in the trenches. Still, if Manning settles in and the defense holds its ground, the Longhorns have the firepower to take down the Spartans.
San Jose State wrapped up the 2024 season with a conference record of 7-6, knowing their season had its bumps. They entered the 2025 season with a loss, but they might still play well this season if their offense performs well. Their offense has improved over time, especially in its ability to establish rhythm early in the passing game. The Spartans have also been effective in their ground game, averaging 3.1 yards per carry, and have a solid receiving corps. Also, a standout quarterback, Walker Eget, averages 192.6 passing yards per game.
Despite a great quarterback and an effective offensive line, the Spartans' defense is inconsistent. They allow 147.8 rushing yards per game. During last season, they gave up big plays through the air despite solid linebacker support. They also struggle with turnovers and red zone efficiency. The team averaged 2.2 turnovers per game last season, and red zone execution was shaky during their game against Central Michigan. Missed field goals and stalled drives cost them a close game. Although if their defense stays focused, they could beat the Longhorns.
The last time San Jose State played Texas was September 9th, 2017. Whoever wins this game will enter Week Three with a win. Based on stats, San Jose State has a small chance of winning regardless of an improved offense and a talented quarterback. Even with a decent conference record of 7-6, their defense is erratic. Texas has a higher chance of winning due to its outstanding offensive line and a new starting quarterback. However, if Texas doesn't pull out all the stops, San Jose could sneak up on them. Presuming that Texas brings its A game, the Spartans won't even sniff the end zone. In a lopsided affair, I’m taking Texas over San Jose State, and it won't be close.
