Texas Football: Setting Realistic Expectations for Nightmare November

The Texas Longhorns October winning streak has helped keep conference title hopes alive. But the road ahead should give Texas fans nightmares. The saying "People Remember November" hangs in the Longhorns' tunnel to the field. This November will be one to remember.

The Big 12 is still wide open, and Texas is one of the two teams leading the charge. Texas will likely be 6-0 in conference before facing the meat of the schedule: Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and Baylor. 

It is possible that Texas could win out and appear in a BCS bowl game, but do not bet your house on it. The road to the BCS will not be easy. In fact, it could be devastating for Texas fans. 

Texas vs. Oklahoma State

The first major test comes November 16 when Mike Gundy and the Oklahoma State Cowboys will look for revenge from last season's questionable touchdown call that gave Texas a 41-36 lead with 29 seconds left in the game.

The Cowboys were stunned by West Virginia in Week 5 of the season, but that does not mean they are not a threat to Texas. 

Way too early prediction: Texas finds enough strength to contain Oklahoma State and the Longhorns continue their undefeated Big 12 streak.

Texas vs. Texas Tech

Some Texas fans may look at the Texas Tech game as an easy win, considering the Red Raiders suffered a loss to Oklahoma last weekend and Texas beat Oklahoma. 

But one could fully expect Kliff Kingsbury's team to prevail.

The Red Raiders have to face Oklahoma State and Baylor before their Thanksgiving night game against Texas. If Tech can roll over the Cowboys and the Bears, Turkey Day may not be a day of thanks for Texas fans.

Way too early prediction: Texas builds confidence from its upset over Oklahoma State to take down Texas Tech and bring home another Thanksgiving Day victory.

Texas at Baylor

The final game of the regular season could very likely determine the Big 12 champion. And this game will not be in the Longhorns' favor. 

Baylor's offense is averaging 718 yards per game and 64 points per game. Baylor's defense is tied at No. 6 in scoring defense (15.9 points per game) and ranks No. 10 nationally in total defense. Say what you will about Baylor's weak schedule against mediocre opponents, but the Bears are a force this season. 

Way too early prediction: Baylor's stacked team is too much for the Longhorns, and the Bears win their first Big 12 Championship.