5 reasons Texas could give Ohio State problems on Saturday

It's time, Ohio State football fans. The 2025 offseason was one of the sweetest in the history of the program because the Buckeyes won the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff for some pretty epic redemption after a loss to Oregon and arch-rival Michigan during the season.

One of the teams that was in the wake of the greatest run in college football history is the Texas Longhorns, and that's exactly the team that will travel to the Shoe to take on the Buckeyes in Week 1. And while both teams have a lot of talent, both lost a good deal of talent at key positions that they must replace to go on a similar run as last year.

Opening up against the No. 1 team in the country is a daunting task for Ohio State, and there's plenty the Longhorns bring to the table that could make life very, very difficult on the scarlet and gray. We're always optimistic about the Buckeyes' chances of winning, but we're also realists as well and know this one won't be easy.

Here are five reasons Texas could pose some significant issues for Ohio State on Saturday.

Arch Manning

Why it matters

Is the hype real? Based on the flashes we saw last season when Quinn Ewers was out because of injury, there were flashes that look like the Manning name will be a game-changing quarterback. He's a true dual threat, has the genes and pedigree, and won't be afraid of the atmosphere. He's going to make some plays against the Ohio State defense; you just hope he's still not as close to a finished product as what he'll eventually be, and that you can contain his playmaking ability.

There are a lot of folks calling Arch overrated and an overhyped player, but the Mannings haven't disappointed, and he will most likely be the next one to be a standout now and in the future in the NFL. Ohio State absolutely has to gameplan against him and try to get him rattled.

The pass rush potential

Why it matters

Texas could have a lethal combination in the pass rush. Linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. had nine sacks last year and figures to be even better this year. The Longhorns will move him around and have him come off the edge, up the middle, and on delays in blitz packages against the young Julian Sayin.

While Hill is coming from all angles, defensive end Collin Simmons could cause havoc off the edge from his defensive end position. He's just a sophomore, but he has the athleticism and speed to be a breakout star after a very good freshman campaign. Ohio State's offensive line and running backs could have their hands full keeping Sayin clean and upright.

Steve Sarkisian

Why it matters

I wasn't a believer when Sark took over Texas. His track record was OK, but didn't point towards a resurgence in Austin. I may have been wrong. He's always been a fantastic play caller, but some time away from the game, in addition to working under Nick Saban at Alabama, seems to have accelerated his development as a program leader.

His players love playing for him; he has a quiet confidence, but more importantly, he might dial up a game plan that can give both sides of the ball fits for Ohio State. Remember, nobody really schemed OSU up like the Longhorns did during the national title run. If not for Jack Sawyer ...

Not so high Noon

Why it matters

Yeah, yeah -- it's another Noon game for Ohio State. Yawn.

Look, I do expect Ohio Stadium to be rockin' for this matchup. It almost always is for a game of this magnitude. The stadium will be loud and give the Buckeyes a boost. However, there's absolutely no doubt that the atmosphere at night in the 'Shoe is a more lathered-up affair. Just ask Tennessee.

The chances of Texas swashbuckling into Ohio Stadium and walking out with a victory are much better because the fans don't have time to get ready for this one all day. It won't be a sleepy crowd, but if the Longhorns can jump out ahead, it can quiet the crowd easier than it could in a scarlet and gray darkness.

Playing in the 'Shoe is still advantage Ohio State, but like it would have been in prime time.

The extreme makeover

Why it matters

Ohio State and Texas both have nine returning starters. On the surface, that looks like a stalemate, mate. However, we have to remember that the Buckeyes lost more "key" players with the departure of guys like Jack Sawyer, J.T. Tuimoloau, Will Howard, both running backs, and a few others. All told, 14 players were selected in the NFL draft, to Texas' 12.

In addition to that, the Buckeyes had to overhaul their staff with the departures of both coordinators. Gone are Chip Kelly and Jim Knowles, and in their place, Brian Hartline will call the plays on offense, with Matt Patricia brought in to be the head coach of the defense.

All of that change is going to take some time to come together, and Texas has more continuity from last season. That is a big, big advantage for the burnt orange.

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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State vs. Texas: 5 reasons the Longhorns could be a problem