SUMMARY: Texas is ranked No. 1 in the preseason USA Today/US LBM coaches poll, narrowly ahead of Ohio State at No. 2. Texas earned 28 first-place votes and 1,606 points, while Ohio State had 20 first-place votes and 1,565 points. Penn State is third, followed by Georgia and Notre Dame. Other top 10 teams include Oregon, Alabama, LSU, and Miami. Texas and Ohio State will open their seasons against each other on August 30 in Columbus, Ohio. Four SEC teams are in the top 10, with seven in the top 25, including Texas A\&M at No. 21. Oklahoma received the most votes outside the top 25.

Read the full article

The post Texas claims top spot in preseason coaches poll, season-opening opponent Ohio State at No. 2 appeared first on www.kxan.com

SUMMARY: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker vowed to protect Texas Democrats who fled to Illinois to block GOP efforts to redraw Texas congressional maps. The Democrats left Texas to deny Republicans a quorum during a special session called by Gov. Greg Abbott, aimed at advancing maps favoring Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterms. The GOP-controlled legislature is expected to pass the maps despite Democrats’ actions. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton criticized the fleeing Democrats, urging their arrest. This standoff echoes 2003 tactics and highlights the intense redistricting battle, raising concerns about election fairness and drawing national attention to potential 2028 presidential hopefuls like Pritzker, Newsom, and DeSantis.

Read the full article

The post Pritzker says Texas Democrats who fled state will be protected amid arrest threats appeared first on www.kxan.com

SUMMARY: Texas edge rusher Ethan Burke, a senior and Westlake High graduate, is poised to increase his impact this season after recording nine tackles for loss, two sacks, and five pass breakups last year. Learning from teammate Barryn Sorrell helped Burke develop a strong work ethic and consistency. Playing opposite star pass rusher Colin Simmons, Burke and Simmons share strong on-field chemistry, aided by communication with linebackers and interior linemen. With a mostly returning defense and strong team camaraderie, Burke is confident in their cohesion. He also cherishes memorable moments like a key stop against Texas A\&M in last season’s Lone Star Showdown.

Read the full article

The post Texas edge Ethan Burke is trying to 'be the best version of himself' in 2025 appeared first on www.kxan.com