Big 12 Football: 5 most important non-conference games in 2017
3. Texas at USC, Sept. 16
In their first meeting since the 2006 BCS National Championship Game, the Texas Longhorns begin a new era under head coach Tom Herman. Texas officials gave former head coach Charlie Strong three seasons before ultimately giving him the boot.
Now, Herman has his shot after going 22-4 in two seasons with the Houston Cougars. Herman acquires a roster that returns 17 of 22 starters, 10 of them on defense.
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Led by linebacker Malik Jefferson, the Longhorns defense has an opportunity to be special under Herman’s new coaching staff. Linebacker Brecky Hager is also another name fans could be hearing a lot of.
The Longhorns offense should also be in good hands. They will have junior offensive tackle Connor Williams, a projected top-NFL pick, blocking up front and quarterback Shane Buechele under center.
Buechele threw for 2,958 passing yards, 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions last season as a true freshman. He should produce better numbers in his second season.
With Tom Herman at the helm, the potential for success in the Big 12 increases for all parties involved. Prepare for a possible breakout season from the Longhorns with a possible upset of the USC Trojans.