Texas gets an early chance to prove it belongs. A showdown with the No. 2 Buckeyes in the season opener on Aug. 30 in Columbus looms large as a potential defining moment in the Longhorns' pursuit of their first national title in two decades.

"Stockton got a taste of being the starting quarterback in the second half of last season's SEC championship game and a CFP quarterfinal and did an admirable job. If Georgia 's offensive line plays better and his receivers are more dependable, Stockton should be fine running the offense."

Texas holds the top spot in the USA Today preseason coaches football poll. Defending national champion Ohio State is No. 2 followed by No. 3 Penn State, No. 4 Georgia and No. 5 Notre Dame.