The struggles of the TCU Horned Frogs football team have taken center stage once again, as the team’s offensive performance continues to raise serious concerns. Since the arrival of offensive coordinator Kendal Briles in 2023, under head coach Sonny Dykes, TCU has recorded a mixed overall record of 20 wins and 15 losses, with only 12 victories against Big 12 opponents. The hope that Briles could transform the offense into a competitive force has not materialized, particularly as the team has failed to contend for the Big 12 Title for three consecutive seasons.
The Horned Frogs’ performance has been marked by inadequate execution and a lack of efficiency, particularly in the red zone. This was starkly evident in their recent game against BYU, where they struggled to score, marking their fifth game this season without points in the first quarter. TCU’s offense displayed a concerning inability to convert on third downs, finishing just 1-10 in that category. Quarterback Josh Hoover had a particularly rough outing, throwing two interceptions, one leading directly to a touchdown for BYU.
The struggle extends beyond just the 2023 season. The attrition of talented players from the roster has become apparent, with former TCU athletes excelling at other programs. Wide receiver Jordan Hudson is making waves at SMU, competing for a spot in the ACC Championship, while quarterback Chandler Morris is also in the mix for an ACC Title with a ranked Virginia squad. Meanwhile, running back Cam Cook is leading the nation in rushing yards at Jacksonville State.
In stark contrast, BYU showcased their prowess by scoring on their first seven drives against TCU, reflecting a level of preparation, discipline, and skill that the Horned Frogs failed to match. The Cougars amassed 28 first downs—an all-time high against TCU this season—showcasing not only dominance in the game but also exposing glaring deficiencies in TCU’s defense. Bear Bachmeier, BYU’s quarterback, took full advantage of the weak TCU defense, demonstrating efficient passing and strong ground performance.
As the season approaches its conclusion, TCU finds itself at the bottom of the Big 12 standings, facing the grim prospect of closing the season on a losing streak. The once-promising campaign has turned sour, drawing questions about leadership and accountability within the program. With the upcoming games against teams vying for a spot in the Conference Championship, hopes for a turnaround may be dwindling, but there remains a glimmer of potential as the team looks to regroup and restore its competitive edge. The future remains uncertain, but the right adjustments could yet steer the Horned Frogs back to a more promising direction.