ESPN College Football

Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin

Overview: The Longhorns (6-0, 2-0) were supposed to be a year away from challenging for the Big 12 title, but have charged into the driver's seat for the national title chase because of improved defensive play and Colt McCoy's production. Defensive coordinator Will Muschamp receives much of the credit for his unit's turnover, but Brian Orakpo's return and the quick development of young safeties Blake Gideon and Earl Thomas have clearly accelerated the progress. The first half of the season has to rank as the best coaching job of Mack Brown's career.

Offensive MVP, Colt McCoy: After a sophomore slump, McCoy has rebounded to lead the nation in passing completion (79.4 percent) and charge into the lead in most Heisman polls at the mid-season mark. McCoy has passed for 1,557 yards and 17 touchdowns against only three interceptions and ranks fourth nationally in passing efficiency. And the bigger and stronger McCoy also has been the Longhorns' most consistent rusher, producing a team-leading 348 yards on a 5.9 yard-per-carry average.

Defensive MVP, Brian Orakpo: After employing boxing lessons to build his speed and stamina after an injury-plagued season last year, Orakpo has returned to be arguably the most disruptive pass-rushing threat in the country. His eight sacks, 12 tackles for losses and three forced fumbles all rank second nationally. And his work in the second half helped break down Oklahoma's mammoth line and pave the way for the Longhorns' comeback victory.

What's next?: The Longhorns are in the driver's seat for their first BCS title game appearance since 2005 if they can continue their unexpected charge. Their rushing game should improve after Fozzy Whittaker returns to the lineup. The secondary should get better as the young players gain more confidence through more work. However, the big question remains a killer schedule that will include games against ranked teams Missouri, Oklahoma State, at Texas Tech and at Kansas over the next five weeks. If they can win three of those four games, they likely will be headed to the Big 12 championship.