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Make no mistake: The 2024 Texas Longhorns are a defensive team

by: Charlie Williams11/01/24
Johnny Nansen, Pete Kwiatkowski
Johnny Nansen, Pete Kwiatkowski (Will Gallagher/Inside Texas)

The 2024 Texas Longhorns defense is approaching heights that have fans and analysts buzzing, drawing comparisons to some of UT’s top defensive units from yesteryear. These units not only won games, they redefined championship-caliber football when it comes to stopping teams from scoring. Now in 2024, Texas finds itself in a similar position, making fans wonder: could this be one of the best Texas defenses in program history?

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Head coach Steve Sarkisian has always been known for his offensive prowess, and his playbook has delivered plenty of fireworks. Designed around speed, creativity, and aggressive scoring, Sarkisian’s offense has created thrilling moments and memorable wins. This year, the Texas offense continues to deliver, averaging 37.6 points per game. But what’s capturing attention in 2024 isn’t just Texas’ ability to score; it’s the Longhorns’ ability to stop opponents in their tracks.

Through seven games, the Longhorns’ defense has emerged as one of the best in the nation, allowing only 92 total points in eight games, good for an average of 11.5 points allowed per game. That achievement has propelled them to second in national scoring defense, a feat that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Pro Football Focus has awarded Texas a defensive grade of 94.6, the best in the nation and a testament to its consistent and dominating play. It’s a level of defensive excellence that fans haven’t seen in years.

This transformation didn’t happen overnight. Since Sarkisian’s arrival, Texas’ defense has steadily improved, evolving from a supporting cast for the offense to a force that can carry the team. Players have embraced a new approach, focusing on physicality, discipline, and relentless pressure. Now, in 2024, Texas’ defense is setting the tone and dictating the pace of the game against almost every opponent.

For Texas fans, this evolution is thrilling. They’re used to explosive offenses lighting up the scoreboard, but this season, they’re seeing a team that’s built to win in every phase of the game. The defensive line is a powerhouse, the secondary is sharp, and the unit as a whole has become adept at anticipating plays and shutting them down. This isn’t just a high-scoring team; it’s a balanced, relentless squad capable of winning on both sides of the ball.

Texas’ balance is rare. They’re not abandoning their offensive roots; they’re working to perfect them while building a defensive identity that could carry them through the season’s toughest challenges.

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So far, every game adds to the story, building a compelling case that this defense could add their exploits to the program’s history books.

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