Texas vs. TCU point spread: Picking Longhorns vs. Horned Frogs

The Texas–TCU rivalry has spanned over multiple conference but the two Lone Star State programs will face off for the final time as Big 12 foes. Fort Worth will be the venue, with a night game expected to produce an incredible atmosphere at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Sure, TCU is suffering a bit after their CFP run but there is still a contender on the field with Texas.

Heading into the game, Texas will be a near double-digit favorite at 9.5. For On3’s Andy Staples and Max Olson of The Athletic, it’s a huge number, especially with for a home underdog against a conference opponent.

This comes with Maalik Murphy being the presumed starter for Texas — at least for the time being. Quinn Ewers is still a possibility while Staples spoke with Bobby Burton of On3’s Inside Texas about Arch Manning potentially getting a shot.

Either way, Staples is taking Texas on the expectation of their run game showing out. Jonathon Brooks has been incredible on the 40 Acres and could have another big day in Fort Worth.

“The book is out now,” Staples said during Monday’s episode of Andy Staples On3. “Basically, as soon as Kansas State took the extra guy out of the box and put him in coverage so they could mix up coverages, it became a problem,” Staples said. “Now, Texas can still run the ball. So, if I’m Texas, I just run it down their damn throats. And I will say, Texas covers running it down their damn throats.”

Olson will be on the other side, saying 9.5 points is “just too many” for TCU. Sonny Dykes is on the verge of missing a bowl game with a 4-5 record and will have his team playing desperate for multiple reasons. It may not be enough to get a win but it’s not all about winning in these picks.

“I think I’m taking the points,” Olson said. “I have to. It’s just too many. Certainly, I can see Texas show up, kind of pissed off and really put a big one together here.

“TCU needs this one. They’re in a tough spot… I think Texas will win but TCU is capable of keeping this close.”

Texas controls its own destiny in the Big 12. Winning out would send them to Arlington and provide an opportunity to lift a trophy in their final year with the conference. TCU will be praying they can play spoiler and get one over the Longhorns before the series likely goes on a hiatius.