Joel Klatt explains why he has Texas ranked No. 2 entering 2025 season

A new era might be unfolding in Austin but FOX’s Joel Klatt is still incredibly high on the Texas Longhorns. He ranked them No. 2 in his post-spring top 25, higher than any other SEC team. One name stands out above the rest when talking about Texas — the program’s new starting quarterback.

“It’s officially the Arch Manning era,” Klatt said. “… I believe he is going to be my Heisman front runner to begin the year. I think he can have that impact and that large of a season.”

Manning is taking over for Quinn Ewers after sitting behind the now-Miami Dolphin for two years. A pair of starts during the 2024 season has people believing Manning is the real deal after being the No. 1 overall recruit coming out of high school. In 95 career pass attempts, Manning has thrown for 969 yards for nine touchdowns and two interceptions.

Plenty of skill talent will be surrounding Manning out there as well. It’s who will be in front of the quarterback giving Klatt some pause about the direction of Steve Sarkisian‘s offense.

Texas is replacing a ton on the offensive line, four of five starters. Two of them were at the tackle position, having to restock the fridge in order to protect Manning. Thankfully, Klatt sees a great equalizer, allowing the starting five Sarkisian and Kyle Flood put out there to mesh together.

“I think the biggest concern, for me, is that they’re replacing a lot on the offensive line. That is a bit concerning… The defense should be excellent and give that offensive line a little bit of time to get their feet wet.”

Klatt highlighted three players at the three levels where he sees elite-level players. Sophomore EDGE Colin Simmons rushing the passer with linebacker Anthony Hill behind him. In the back-end is safety Michael Taaffe, a former walk-on who has turned into one of the best in college football.

Overall, Texas possesses one of the top rosters in college football. A testament to the job Sarkisian has done in Klatt’s eyes, saying they may go further than the College Football Playoff semifinal.

“Steve Sarkisian has built a program that is a preeminent program in college football,” Klatt said. “You don’t have to ask if Texas is back, they are absolutely back. They’ve been in the national semifinals for two straight years. And then may get past that this year. They will start this year, for me, at No. 2.”