Brandon Baker, a junior offensive lineman for the Texas Longhorns, has been named to two prestigious preseason watch lists that spotlight the nation’s top college football players. The recognition includes the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award watch list and the 81st Outland Trophy preseason list, while the league’s media and coaches also placed him on the Preseason All‑SEC Third Team.
Preseason Recognition
The honors place Baker alongside the country’s most celebrated linemen, underscoring his emergence as a key protector of quarterback Arch Manning. His selection reflects both his on‑field performance and the growing national attention on Texas’s offensive line.
Key Contributions
During the 2025 campaign Baker started every game at right tackle, a role that required him to shield Manning from pass rushes in high‑stakes matchups against Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Michigan, among others. In the season‑opening victory over Ohio State his blocking helped Manning complete 17‑of‑30 passes for 170 yards and a touchdown, while the offense amassed 472 total yards against San Jose State.
The line’s consistency was evident in later contests, including a 607‑yard outburst against Sam Houston and a 302‑yard performance against Oklahoma, where Baker’s protection allowed Manning to throw for three touchdowns.
Season Highlights
Baker’s impact culminated in the Cheez‑It Citrus Bowl, where Texas posted 456 yards of offense and 41 points, highlighted by Manning’s 155‑yard rushing effort that included a 60‑yard scramble. The game showcased the synergy between Baker’s line work and the team’s overall attacking prowess.
The award ceremony for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year will announce finalists on Dec. 8, with the winner to be revealed on Dec. 15 at the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Celebration Dinner on Jan. 16, 2027.
Looking ahead, Baker and the Longhorns open the 2026 season against Texas State on Sept. 5 at Darrell K Royal‑Texas Memorial Stadium, a game that will be streamed on ESPN.