Last year at this time, the Longhorns had played an average schedule and were trying to gain respect.  After beating #1 Oklahoma, they assumed the #1 spot and played three top 11 teams in a row, losing to Texas Tech on a last second play. They should have played for the National Championship, but ended the season with a respectable 11-1 record.

This year will be very different.  There will be no superior teams on which to build a case for stout competition.  Even if they go undefeated, (they are certainly capable of losing a game or two) there may not be any of their foes listed in the final Top 10.

Only one of the  present undefeated Southeastern conference teams, (Florida, Alabama, LSU, & Auburn) will likely end up undefeated. Is it possible an undefeated Boise State could slip into the National Championship game? If Texas remains undefeated, it is not likely a one loss team (like USC) would edge them out, but I guess stranger things have happened.

Bottom line:   Texas can't lose a game if they want a shot at the big one in Pasadena.