This week’s edition of Four Downs takes a deep dive into some of the hottest topics in Texas athletics. From Cam Newton’s controversial comments about Texas football to the current state of Texas men’s basketball, we break down what’s making headlines and why it matters.
First Down: Cam Newton’s Misguided Take on Texas Football
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton recently made waves with comments about the culture of Texas football, implying that the program lacks toughness and identity. Newton, known for his outspoken nature, suggested that Texas isn’t built to compete with the nation’s elite programs—a statement that quickly sparked backlash from Longhorn fans and analysts alike.
Newton’s take seems rooted in outdated narratives rather than the reality of where Texas football stands under head coach Steve Sarkisian. The Longhorns have transformed significantly over the past few seasons, evidenced by their College Football Playoff appearance and strong recruiting classes. Sarkisian has instilled discipline, toughness, and a winning mindset, and the team has consistently shown it can compete with top programs.
The claim that Texas football lacks an identity ignores the aggressive recruiting, the defensive resurgence under Pete Kwiatkowski, and the offensive firepower developed under Sarkisian. The program is undeniably trending upward, making Newton’s criticism feel more like an uninformed hot take rather than an accurate assessment.
Second Down: The State of Texas Men’s Basketball
Texas basketball has been on a rollercoaster ride over the past few seasons, and this year has been no different. Rodney Terry, now in his first full season as the official head coach, has faced his fair share of challenges. The Longhorns have battled inconsistency, injuries, and a tough Big 12 schedule, leaving many to wonder if they have enough firepower to make a deep NCAA Tournament run.
While the team has had flashes of brilliance, questions remain about whether Texas can compete with the best teams in the conference. The Longhorns have a talented roster, but execution and closing out tight games have been recurring issues. Terry’s ability to develop his players and make key adjustments will be critical as the tournament approaches.
Despite the ups and downs, Texas remains a dangerous team capable of making noise in March. If they can find consistency on both ends of the floor, they could surprise a lot of people when it matters most.
Third Down: Texas Football’s Offseason Momentum
While the Longhorns are still processing their College Football Playoff run, the focus has already shifted to the offseason and what’s next for the program. Sarkisian and his staff have been relentless on the recruiting trail, securing some of the nation’s top talent. Texas has also been active in the transfer portal, adding key pieces to bolster both sides of the ball.
One of the biggest storylines is the quarterback battle. Quinn Ewers is expected to return as the starter, but all eyes are on Arch Manning and Maalik Murphy. The level of talent in the quarterback room is as high as it’s ever been, and how Sarkisian manages this group will be fascinating to watch.
The Longhorns also continue to develop a dominant defense, with stars like Anthony Hill Jr. and T’Vondre Sweat playing key roles. Texas fans have every reason to be excited about the program’s trajectory, and this offseason will be crucial in building on last year’s success.
Fourth Down: The Bigger Picture for Texas Athletics
Beyond football and basketball, Texas athletics as a whole is thriving. The baseball team is gearing up for another strong season, while the softball program continues to be a national contender. Track and field, swimming, and other sports are also making headlines, showcasing the depth of Texas’ athletic dominance.
With the Longhorns set to join the SEC in 2025, the stakes are only getting higher. Competing in the most powerful conference in college sports will demand excellence across the board, but Texas appears ready for the challenge. The move will bring increased exposure, tougher competition, and even more opportunities for the Longhorns to solidify their status as a national powerhouse.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Four Downs highlights just how much is happening in Texas athletics. Cam Newton’s misguided comments on Texas football show that some outsiders still fail to grasp the program’s resurgence. Meanwhile, Texas basketball is looking for consistency, and the football team is building momentum for another championship run.
As the Longhorns continue to rise across multiple sports, one thing is clear—Texas is proving that it belongs among the nation’s elite, regardless of what critics like Newton might say.