5 reasons Texas football are national championship contenders in 2016

3. Defense

Granted, starting off the season by giving up 47 points doesn’t scream elite defense. Texas’ defense is still, very much, a work in progress. Inconsistency and blown assignments plagued them a season ago. Their run defense left much to be desired after allowing 219 yards rushing in 2015. They began this season by giving up 206 more yards to Notre Dame.

But Texas is as talented on that side of the ball as they’ve been in Charlie Strong’s tenure. The potential is there, as displayed a season ago when the ‘Horns finished 4th in the Big 12 in passing yards allowed.

While inconsistency continues to plague the defense, there is a silver lining. A few, actually. Texas averaged 2.1 takeaways last season, the 12th best rate in the country. They were +11 in turnovers. If Texas can win the turnover battle and give their offense extra snaps, they’ll dominate the ball with their rushing attack. They’ll also keep themselves in games where they need scores, which will likely be the scenario they find themselves in against the high-powered Oklahoma State Cowboys.

Texas averaged three sacks per game in 2015, good for fifth in the country. They started fast this year, recording three sacks against Notre Dame. Texas’ pass rush will help put opponents in 3rd-and-longer situations. The ‘Horns got progressively better at stopping teams on 3rd down last season, will look to build on that success.

The defense may give up yards in bunches, but their ability to pressure the quarterback and force turnovers will always keep them within striking distance.

Next: Charlie Strong's Leadership