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Issuing 2023 superlatives to the Texas Longhorns

Joe Cookby:Joe Cook•12/10/23•

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Texas QB Quinn Ewers
Aaron E. Martinez | American-Statesman | USA TODAY NETWORK

The 2023 Texas Longhorns are College Football Playoff bound thanks to standout play in all three phases. The Longhorns had help from a number of star players, including several who produced at an All-American or award-winning level.

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Even with one (or two) games left, we can take a look back at who the Longhorns top performers were during the 2023 campaign.

Offensive MVP

Winner: Quinn Ewers

The two games where he was absent highlighted just how much he meant to the Longhorn offense this season. That’s not to knock Maalik Murphy, but the Longhorns were not the same without Ewers. Wins over Alabama, TCU, and Oklahoma State are attributable to No. 3 and the huge steps he made ahead of his second season in Austin.

Also considered: Jonathon Brooks, Xavier Worthy

Defensive MVP

Winner: T’Vondre Sweat.

The only team to run the ball with any success against Texas was Oklahoma and they did it via draws and scrambles. No one could run downhill on Texas and it was largely thanks to No. 93.

Also considered: Byron Murphy, Jahdae Barron

Most improved offensive player

Winner: Quinn Ewers

There were times when he was unplayable last year, including at Oklahoma State. Then this year against Oklahoma State, Steve Sarkisian put a gameplan together that was based on Ewers’ passing ability. That trust was earned, and Texas is in the College Football Playoff as a result.

Also considered: Gunnar Helm, Xavier Worthy

Most improved defensive player

Winner: Alfred Collins

Collins went from a guy who struggled to crack the defensive tackle rotation to someone who gave opponents little rest whenever Murphy and Sweat needed a breather. That’s a testament to the work he put in.

Also considered: Ethan Burke, David Gbenda

Newcomer of the year on offense

Winner: Adonai Mitchell

His ability as an outside receiving threat is what really made this offense go. His 10 touchdowns don’t hurt. He made big plays all season, and he’s in the Playoff for a third straight year.

Also considered: CJ Baxter

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Newcomer of the year on defense

Winner: Anthony Hill

Hill went from situational player to starter on one of the best run defenses in the country. His hard work put into becoming a every-down defender was a great parting gift from new Nevada head coach Jeff choate.

Also considered: Malik Muhammad

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