On the November 16, 2024, episode of *The Rodcast*, hosts Rod Babers and Patrick Davis delivered another insightful and entertaining breakdown of all things Texas Longhorns. With the football season nearing its most critical juncture and basketball season just beginning, the hosts left no stone unturned as they discussed the state of Texas athletics. Here’s a detailed look at the key topics they covered during the episode.
The primary focus of the episode was on Texas football, as the Longhorns continue to chase a Big 12 Championship and a potential berth in the College Football Playoff. Coming off a decisive win against Iowa State, the team is riding high under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Babers and Davis praised Sarkisian for his play-calling and his ability to keep the team focused during a season filled with adversity.
Quarterback Quinn Ewers’ performance was a major talking point. Ewers, who recently returned from injury, showed poise and accuracy in the pocket against Iowa State. Babers highlighted how Ewers’ ability to spread the ball to receivers Xavier Worthy, Adonai Mitchell, and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders has transformed Texas into one of the most balanced offenses in the nation. The hosts also touched on the critical role of running back Jonathon Brooks before his season-ending injury and how freshman CJ Baxter has stepped up in Brooks’ absence.
On defense, Babers and Davis were particularly impressed with the continued dominance of the defensive line, led by T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy II. They discussed how the Longhorns’ ability to stop the run and pressure opposing quarterbacks has been a cornerstone of their success. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski also received praise for his adjustments throughout the season, particularly in shoring up the secondary, which struggled early in the year.
The duo speculated on Texas’ path to the Big 12 Championship game, noting the importance of closing out the regular season strong with a win against Texas Tech. They also weighed in on potential playoff scenarios, analyzing how Texas stacks up against teams like Georgia, Michigan, and Washington.
Looking beyond this season, Babers and Davis delved into Texas’ impending move to the SEC in 2024. They expressed excitement about the new level of competition but acknowledged the challenges that come with it. Babers emphasized the importance of maintaining strong recruiting classes, noting that Texas must continue to build depth, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines, to compete against SEC powerhouses.
The hosts also discussed the financial and cultural implications of the move, predicting that the Longhorns’ brand will only grow stronger as they face marquee opponents like Alabama, LSU, and Florida on a regular basis.
Shifting gears, Babers and Davis spent time discussing the Texas men’s basketball team, which is off to a promising start under head coach Rodney Terry. They praised the team’s depth and versatility, highlighting standout performances from Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell, and the emerging freshman AJ Johnson.
The women’s basketball team also earned recognition, as Babers and Davis celebrated their strong start to the season under head coach Vic Schaefer. The hosts applauded the leadership of Rori Harmon and the team’s defensive intensity, which has already made them a favorite to contend for a Big 12 title.
As always, *The Rodcast* featured plenty of interaction with listeners, who called in to share their thoughts and ask questions about the Longhorns. Topics ranged from the future of Quinn Ewers—should he declare for the NFL Draft or return for another season?—to whether Texas can handle the SEC’s physicality. Babers and Davis provided thoughtful and candid responses, keeping the conversation lively and engaging.
This episode of *The Rodcast* was a must-listen for Texas Longhorns fans. Rod Babers and Patrick Davis once again demonstrated their deep knowledge and passion for the program, covering every angle of the football team’s championship aspirations and the broader future of Texas athletics. With the Longhorns’ fan base buzzing about the current season and the upcoming transition to the SEC, *The Rodcast* continues to be a trusted source for analysis, perspective, and Longhorn pride.