The Texas Longhorns emerged victorious in a thrilling Peach Bowl on New Year’s Day, but it wasn’t without a near-collapse that had fans on the edge of their seats. Despite an impressive lead, the Longhorns saw their advantage shrink in the final moments, and they had to scrape out a hard-fought win. Here are five key takeaways from the game:
1. The Defense Wasn’t as Dominant as Expected
The Longhorns entered the Peach Bowl with one of the best defenses in college football, but they were uncharacteristically shaky at times. While they were able to stifle their opponents for much of the game, there were key moments where their defense allowed big plays, including a couple of long passes and rushing touchdowns that threatened to shift momentum.
2. Quinn Ewers’ Strong Start, But Rocky Finish
Quarterback Quinn Ewers had a solid performance, particularly in the first half, throwing for multiple touchdowns and showcasing his ability to lead the offense. However, as the game wore on, his play began to falter. A series of errant throws and a lack of consistency made things more difficult as Texas’s lead started to dwindle. Ewers will need to work on maintaining his composure throughout the game, especially in high-pressure situations like those in the fourth quarter.
3. Running Game Delivered, but Faded Late
The Longhorns’ rushing attack, led by standout running back Jonathan Brooks, was one of the bright spots in the game. Brooks showcased his ability to move the chains with multiple explosive runs and solidified the team’s early lead. However, as the game progressed, the ground game slowed down significantly. It became harder for Texas to control the clock and the tempo, allowing their opponents to stay in the game.
4. Texas Almost Lost Its Grip on the Game
The Longhorns’ ability to close out games had been one of their strengths during the season, but they nearly squandered this one. A series of turnovers, missed opportunities, and mental mistakes put their victory in jeopardy. With just minutes left, Texas was forced to hold on for dear life, praying their defense could come through in the clutch. Fortunately for them, they managed to secure the win, but it was a reminder that no lead is safe.
5. The Win Sets the Stage for 2025
Despite the scare, the Peach Bowl win gives Texas a solid finish to their 2024 campaign. The victory is a stepping stone for the program as they head into the offseason and look ahead to the 2025 season. While there are clear areas to improve, especially in terms of finishing strong and avoiding mental lapses, the Longhorns have a solid foundation for the future. The experience gained in this tense bowl game will only help their young players develop and prepare for tougher challenges in the coming years.
