Crossing the Goal Line: Predicting the TCU vs Texas Football Game

Nathan Cross gives his prediction for the game, and whether or whether not the frogs cover the spread.

Editor's Note: "Crossing the Goal Line" is a weekly column by Nathan Cross in which he predicts the upcoming TCU game. He looks at the point spread, the over/under, and makes a prediction. This is his opinion and should not be taken as betting advice.

Texas is favored to win by 9.5 points with an over/under of 53.5. Let's examine why I am picking TCU to win this game and why they will cover the spread against Texas. You heard it right, I am choosing TCU to take this win.

Many people will disagree with my opinion. Especially because I have been wrong almost every time this season. However, I still believe this team has a path to a bowl game. If the team can band together, and come together as a whole, they can win at least two more games to become bowl eligible. It all starts with TCU working hard and trusting in their teammates and coaches. Josh Hoover is really talented, he is just young. He is our next great quarterback. He has a great arm and has the ability to extend plays. He just has to be smarter.

Here are some reasons to back up my opinion.

Why TCU Will Beat the Spread Against Texas 

TCU has had Texas' number for 11 years

TCU has beaten the Longhorns eight times in the 11 years since the Frogs joined the Big 12 Conference. The Frogs have seemed to have their number even when they are not having the best season themselves. The rivalry really gives them the energy to want to upset this Texas team. Look for it to be closer than what people expect. TCU will be looking to upset them and potentially keep them out of the Big 12 Championship.

TCU still has a route to being bowl eligible

TCU can still make a bowl game. It will be very challenging for the Horned Frogs with only three games left in the season, especially with two of the three games being against ranked opponents. It will be challenging, but if the Frogs want to go to a bowl, it all starts with beating Texas. They will find a way to make it happen. They have to band together and give maximum effort against Texas.

Quinn Ewers could still be out

Texas' starting quarterback Quinn Ewers suffered an injury a few weeks back, and the Longhorn's offense has not been the same. The offense hasn't been horrible under Maalik Murphy. He is a very talented quarterback. However, he doesn't have the experience that Ewers has. If Ewers is still out, this could impact the game, as TCU will be looking for Murphy to make those crucial mistakes.

Maalik Murphy has been starting for the Longhorns ever since Quinn Ewers was injured earlier in the season. 

© Sara Diggins/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK

Josh Hoover has what it takes to be a great quarterback

People really can't change my mind on this. I stand behind Josh Hoover. He has the potential to be TCU's next great quarterback. I like his play style and his effort. Hoover has a really good arm and has enough speed and agility to extend plays, which has been huge at times. He has made some costly turnovers, but that will fix itself as he gets older and gains more experience. Hoover reminds me a lot of Max Duggan; they both have the grit it takes to win games. What would be a better way for Hoover to gain a lot of attention and get a huge win against one of the nation's most talked about teams? He will come into this game pumped up and ready to win.

Josh Hoover warms up before the Texas Tech game.

Tony Beblowski/KillerFrogs

TCU will be playing in front of their home crowd

If the Frogs were playing in Austin, I would have a different take. However, they will be at home playing in front of their fans. This game will likely be close to sold out because of how big this game is and the fact they are playing the Longhorns. Plus, this will be the last time Texas comes to Fort Worth, at least for the foreseeable future. That will give the crowd even more energy, which will help the Frogs get a major upset over the Longhorns.

TCU wins this game 28-14. In the end, TCU will have fought hard enough to beat Texas. TCU needs to start off hot and put it to them in the beginning to win this game. 

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