How Many Times Has Texas Been to the CFP? A Historical Inquiry (Emphasis on the Lack Thereof)
Ah, Texas football. A program steeped in tradition, a stadium nicknamed "Godzillatron," and a fanbase that bleeds burnt orange. But there's one question that's haunted Longhorn Nation for years, a question that could curdle queso and bring Bevo the steer to tears: How many times has Texas actually made the College Football Playoff?
The Answer, My Friends, Will Shock You (But Not Really)
Brace yourselves... Texas has ventured into the glorious realm of the CFP exactly zero, zilch, nada times. That's right, folks, a big ol' goose egg. Now, before you start sharpening your horns in outrage, hear me out. The College Football Playoff is a young buck, only strutting its stuff since 2014. Texas, well, let's just say they've been busy the past few years, you know, like winning four glorious national championships back in the pre-CFP days (don't worry, Alabama fans, we're not bitter... much).
Close Calls and Cautionary Tales
But wait! There's a glimmer of hope in the burnt orange sky! Texas has come heartbreakingly close to that CFP berth a couple of times. In 2018, they were ranked a heart-stopping fifth, just missing the playoff party by a whisker. Let's just say the Sugar Bowl that year against Georgia was a consolation prize (and a sweet one at that).
The Future is Orange (Hopefully CFP Orange)
However, fear not, my fellow Longhorns! The tides may be turning. This past season (2023), Texas clawed its way into the CFP for the first time ever! They battled valiantly, but ultimately fell short. Still, that first taste of the playoff pie has left everyone in Austin hungry for more.
So, the answer to our burning question is zero, but with a hopeful asterisk the size of Texas itself. The future is bright for Texas football, and who knows, maybe next season we'll finally see the Longhorns hoist that coveted CFP trophy. Or, at the very least, avoid another zero in the "appearances" column.
In the meantime, there's always next year. And queso. Lots and lots of queso.
