No. 3 Texas and No. 24 Kansas are set to clash in a highly anticipated matchup on Saturday for Big 12 supremacy. This will be the first time the two teams have ever played each other while both being ranked, adding to the excitement. Moreover, it will be the final meeting between the two teams as Big 12 opponents, as Texas is moving to the Southeastern Conference in 2024.
Both teams have had impressive starts to the season, with identical 4-0 overall records and 1-0 conference records. Texas hasn’t reached such a mark since 2012, while Kansas has achieved a 4-0 start in consecutive seasons for the first time since 1914-15.
Texas is coming off a dominant 38-6 win against Baylor in their league opener, with quarterback Quinn Ewers leading the way with 293 passing yards and a touchdown. Running back Jonathon Brooks also stood out with 106 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Longhorns’ defense was equally impressive, limiting Baylor to just three points on three red zone possessions.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian credits addressing the weaknesses exposed in their loss against Kansas in 2021 for their success this season. He emphasizes the team’s versatility and ability to win games in different ways.
Kansas enters the matchup following a 38-27 victory against BYU. They relied on a strong defensive performance, including two defensive scores, and quarterback Jalon Daniels’ three touchdowns. Head coach Lance Leipold wants his team to focus on the present and believes both teams have significantly improved since their last encounter.
The historical series between the two teams has been dominated by Texas, with a 17-4 all-time record. They’ve been particularly successful when playing at home, boasting a 9-1 record. Last season, Texas defeated Kansas 55-14 in Lawrence.
With both teams aiming to maintain their perfect records and secure the top spot in the Big 12 Conference standings, fans are eagerly awaiting this battle.
