Nick Saban evaluates Texas rematch, whether Longhorns are ready for the SEC

For the second straight season, the premier nonconfernece game in college football will be Alabama–Texas. Round One ended with Nick Saban squeezing by former assistant Steve Sarkisian with a one-point victory. The rematch will take place in an incredible Tuscaloosa environment on Sept. 9 under the lights at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Saban gave his assessment of the matchup about two months out, pointing out some of the experience Texas has returning. He also mentioned how well Sarkisian has been recruiting, finishing with back-to-back top-five classes per the On3 Industry Team Rankings.

“I think Texas has a lot of players back from last year’s team,” Saban said. “Obviously, it was a really close, tough game. Last year, when we played that game, I think they’re doing an outstanding job of recruiting. Doing an outstanding job of developing players on their team.

“It’s going to be a real challenging game, no doubt. Because they have a lot of starters back and they have a lot of experience coming back and an experienced quarterback. We expect them to have an outstanding team.”

The quarterback Saban is referencing is Quinn Ewers, someone Alabama did not see too much of last season in Austin. Ewers suffered an injury in the first quarter after taking a hit from Dallas Turner. Flashes from Ewers were there early in the game though, giving everyone confidence in him going into the 2023 season.

More than just the quarterback returns for the Longhorns. Xavier Worthy comes back as a preseason All-Big 12 performer, joining Jordan Whittington in the wide receiver room. Texas should have the entire starting offensive line back as well, even if Kyle Flood slightly tinkers.

Defensively is where returning talent could have an impact. Jaylan Ford joins Worthy on the preseason All-Big 12 team after a breakout season. The defensive back room is going to be loaded at all five positions, with Jahdae Barron being the real STAR.

That being said, this experienced Texas team has never faced something such as Alabama on the road. Saban understands the challenge ahead but will have his team ready to roll in early September.

After the matchup this year, the next time Alabama and Texas see each other, it will be as SEC opponents. Saban was asked if he believes the Longhorns will be ready to play in the conference, not giving too much other than having faith in Sarkisian.

“Well, I can’t evaluate their readiness to play in any game,” Saban said. “I think Sark is a great coach and I think he’ll have them ready.”