Texas Football: 5 reasons the Longhorns will upset Oklahoma

Don’t look now, but Texas Football is starting to turn the corner. And what better way to add a statement win to the resume than to knock off Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry.

After a hideous early-season loss to Maryland, the Texas Longhorns have been on the up-and-up. Sure, they dropped an overtime heart-breaker to USC back on Sept. 16, but Tom Herman is working tirelessly to establish the culture he wants in Austin. Each week, the Longhorns look as if they are taking steps in the direction Herman wants.

Texas survived a 40-34 double-overtime win over Kansas State a week ago. The Longhorns’ offense showed renewed signs of life as quarterback Sam Ehlinger erupted for 487 yards of total offense and 2 passing touchdowns. The Texas offense rolled up 546 yards and 32 first downs on the night.

Texas owns a 2-0 mark in Big 12 play and a win over their conference-rivals would have the Longhorns sitting pretty.

Oklahoma, meanwhile is reeling after a shocking 38-31 loss to Iowa State. Heisman hopeful quarterback, Baker Mayfield comes in completing 75 percent of his passes. He continues to put up superb numbers and riddle defenses with his play-making ability.

The teams will meet for the 112th time Saturday at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. Herman and Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley are both in their first seasons with their respective programs. It marks the first time since 1947 the game features first-year coaches on both sides.

Here are five reasons I believe the Longhorns — 9.5 point underdogs — will pull the upset.