Paul Finebaum Reveals the SEC’s Most Certain Contender for 2025

"I don't think, outside of Texas, there is really anything certain," Finebaum said. "Because the next three — LSU, Alabama and Georgia — are what we think."

There are several uncertainties surrounding Texas this year. The Longhorns are experiencing a significant roster turnover as they head into the season, having lost a large portion of their production from last year. Texas ranks No. 103 in returning production, with only 29 percent of its offensive players returning (No. 126 in offensive production returning).

Quinn Ewers, the starting quarterback for the past three years, has moved on to the NFL. The Longhorns also lost four of their top six receivers, their second-leading rusher and four of the five starting offensive linemen. Despite these setbacks, Texas has excelled in recruiting, finishing with the top class in the nation for 2025, according to 247Sports.

The team is also transitioning to quarterback Arch Manning, who was the top recruit in the 2023 class. As the grandson of legendary college quarterback Archie Manning and the nephew of former NFL stars Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has thrown for 969 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions during his first two years of limited action.

Manning's first start of the 2025 season will be significant because it is on the road against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes. This matchup is a rematch of the College Football Playoff semifinal and is scheduled for Aug. 30 at noon ET.