Urban Meyer makes pick on Texas vs. Washington in Sugar Bowl CFP Semifinal

On a day full of college football festivities, it’s fitting that the sport will take us to New Orleans for a thrilling nightcap. No. 2 Washington will face off against No. 3 Texas at the Sugar Bowl, with a spot in the College Football Playoff national championship on the line. Both teams are fresh off conference titles but will be looking to add another trophy to the cabinet come Jan. 8.

When talking about each team, Urban Meyer decided to start with Texas. It’s hard to not notice the defensive front the Longhorns have, with T’Vondre Sweat and Bryon Murphy arguably being the best duo in all of college football.

“Texas is the best-looking team on the hoof in college football,” Meyer said. “I stood next to them. Coach Sarkisian invited us to practice. We watched them. The defensive front at Texas is the best-looking and I think the best in college football.”

Sweat was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, while Murphy was the Defensive Lineman of the Year. Head coach Steve Sarkisian advocated for the awards to be won by his two stars and his wish was granted.

Moving out West, there is a bit of a Big Ten connection between Meyer and Washington. Michael Penix Jr. and Kalen DeBoer were both with Indiana during the 2019 season. Although Meyer never faced off against the duo, he knows how far they have come over the past few seasons.

“Penix, my gosh,” Meyer said. “That guy was in Bloomington, Indiana, and Coach DeBoer was in the Hoosier State and now they’re competing for a national championship in Seattle.”

However, Meyer is picking Texas to win on Jan. 1. He has been a fan of the Longhorns all season, and a big reason why is the roster. Sarkisian has been recruiting like crazy since taking over on the 40 Acres, having talent at every single position.

Meyer sees NFL players across the field, giving Texas a huge advantage before even walking onto the field.

“I like Texas in that one,” Meyer said. “I think it’s going to be a great game. I’m telling you, Texas — every position — I went through each position and every one of them have NFL players. Certainly on offense, maybe on defense. Every position will be making money in the National Football League in the next two years.”

No matter who winds up winners in the Big Easy, it will be their first national championship appearance in the CFP era. But Meyer is going to roll with Texas and eventually see them play one final game for all the marbles in the Lone Star State.