Inside Texas 2015 Spring

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APRIL/MAY 2015

WE LC OM E TO TH E NE W AG E Malik Jefferson leads a new group of Longhorns.

NFL DRAFT

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5 Longhorns picked in 2015

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April/May 2015

in this issue Questions, Questions |

by

Mike Blackwell

6

As he starts year two, Charlie Strong has a better feel for his team.

Enter Shaka Smart |

10

Tim Preston Shaka Smart brings his high-energy style to Texas. by

Back in the Saddle |

by

16

Justin Wells

After being shut out in 2014, five Longhorns were drafted in 2015.

Inside the Texas Gameplan |

by Ian

Boyd

Ian examines the offense and defense following the Orange-White game.

26

Recruiting Notebook |

34

Strong Spring |

37

By Justin Wells and Ian Boyd A look at some players to watch for in the 2016 class.

Pat sums up spring ball.

by

Pat Culpepper

Competition is Good |

by

Bill Frisbie

Ian looks at the 2014 class and what to expect from them in 2015.

The Depth Chart |

by

Eric Nahlin

Position-by-position breakdown offense and defense.

38 42

Publishers -- Michael Pearle, Clendon Ross | Managing Editor--Clendon Ross | Editor-- Mike Blackwell InsideTexas.com Editor -- Justin Wells | Lead Writer -- Bill Frisbie | Contributor -- Ian Boyd Designer/Photographer -- Will Gallagher | Recruiting Analyst -- Eric Nahlin To Subscribe/Customer Service -- Phone: 512-249-8916 | Email: help@insidetexas.com April/May - 2015

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QUESTIONS,

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his time last year, Charlie Strong could probably, literally, feel the questions bouncing around in his head, like a teenager trying to keep three pinballs

alive at once.

- Who’s your quarterback?

- How will your offensive line gel?

- Can your defense - which was mauled often in 2013 - bounce back?

- Who’s your kicker?

- How can you possibly assemble a solid recruiting class after the

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chaos that was the departure of Mack Brown? inside texas

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QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS.

by Mike Blackwell

Jerrod Heard

April/May - 2015

7

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS.

Q

uestions, questions, questions.

pursued him. The work paid off on sign-

the young players who will undoubtedly

ing day, but ultimately, the recruiting of

give the Longhorns what could be a

But amidst those questions, one stood

Jefferson will be judged only by how he

shocking - and exciting - transition.

out more than the others for Strong,

performs - as Strong’s guy - on the field.

whose task was to change the dynamics of the program and stamp Bevo in his own image. If Strong could find an answer to this one particular question, it would go a long way toward answering all of the other personnel questions that loomed.

Who are my guys?

Inheriting “Mack Brown’s guys” saddled Strong with players who didn’t always fit comfortably with the new coach’s penchant for discipline, focus, accountability and relentlessness.

One year later, Strong appears to be much closer to answering this most important question: Who are my guys?

The most prominent of “his guys” is

Malik Jefferson

obviously incoming linebacker Malik Jefferson. Strong wants talent, for sure, and he certainly appears to have that

Strong’s guys - Strong’s swagger - will

Yes, Jefferson’s arrival will hopefully

with Jefferson, who most believe was

be on full view in 2015. After a year to

bring a quarterback-sacking, running

the top linebacker in the country coming

mold and build - a year that culminated

back-chasing, turnover-producing

out of Mesquite Poteet. But Strong also

in an embarrassing loss to Arkansas to

whirling dervish of a linebacker to a

espouses hard work, confidence and

end a 6-7 season - Strong’s guys will

Longhorn defense that needs all of that.

as much swagger as possible within the

now be expected to take considerable

But “Strong’s guys” now dot the lineup

confines of a team concept. He wants

steps forward in 2015.

on both sides of the football, and have

some edge and grit to go along with a

given Texas and its fans hope that this

low 40-time and the ability to block and

Fortunately for Strong, Jefferson is not

tackle.

the only one who will wear the moniker as “Strong’s guys” in 2015. The transi-

Much different.

He’s got all of that now with Jeffer-

tion from Brown to Strong is certainly

son, who checks all of the boxes.

not complete, but 2015 will give a much

Start with offense in general, and quar-

clearer picture of just how different those

terback in particular. Offensively, the

Jefferson will be the face of the “new”

cultures and players will truly be once

Longhorns appear to be committed to

Longhorns, and will certainly be the

Strong’s reclamation project is done.

employing much more of a spread, up-

highest profile athlete who can be

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season will be different than last.

tempo attack for 2015. Tyrone Swoopes,

labeled as one of Strong’s guys. He’ll

For now - with the 2015 season on the

the 2014 starting quarterback, has a

be expected to contribute immediately

horizon - optimism is aplenty, though

full year of experience now, so logically

- “immediately” being defined as the

Strong and some close to the program

he should be better. That’s all well and

opening game at Notre Dame - and he

continue to temper that enthusiasm.

good, but Jerrod Heard is more of a

will be expected to produce immediately

But make no mistake, the difference

“Strong guy” than Swoopes, who was

as well. Strong targeted Jefferson and

between the spring of 2014 and the

wholly recruited by Brown.

- here’s the word again - relentlessly

spring of 2015 is significant, thanks to

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QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS.

Yes, Heard was also recruited by Brown,

sophomore, Tweeted the following in re-

intellect is surpassed only by his nasty

but Strong stayed with Heard, who was

sponse to those who would suggest the

disposition. He fits the bill.

redshirted in 2014. An inconsistent 2014

receiving corps at Texas lack experience

- including a dismal bowl performance

and could probably be helped by an

How about running back Chris Warren,

- left many longing for Heard over

influx of youth: “We are inexperienced at

a 235-pound bruiser who can dump-

Swoopes. A great many people believe

the WR position but we do have capable

truck defenders, beat them to the edge

Shawn Watson’s heavier commitment

playmakers so to say the freshman

and can catch? Check.

to the new offensive philosophy - which

WR’s will come in and play…We’ll see!”

Heard excelled at in high school, by

And: “Nothing will be handed to them

How do you like Miami native Devonaire

the way - means that Heard will unseat

and I can’t speak for anyone else but I

Clarington, a smooth 6-5, 238-pound

Swoopes as the starter in 2015. If Heard

won’t let them come take my spot!”

tight end who could probably become a nasty defensive end if that becomes

ascends to the starting quarterback throne, it will be a significant sign that

That’s exactly the kind of fire that makes

Texas has indeed taken a major step

Foreman a Strong guy.

necessary.

Cecil Cherry? He’s a 6-0, 230-pound

toward a team with only Strong’s guys.

Want more?

linebacker from Florida who like Jefferson could make an immediate impact.

If the addition of Jefferson and Heard doesn’t convince you of the oncoming

How about Patrick Vahe, a 6-3,

Here’s what he said after signing with

change of demeanor, how about this?

300-pound mauler of an interior of-

Texas: “My game is physical…the Texas

Receiver Armanti Foreman, only a

fensive lineman whose considerable

staff and coach Strong I believe want killers like me and ballplayers. That’s why he came to Florida to get some players.”

Want some DBs to join the “Strong’s guys” brigade?

How about Davante Davis, who at 6-3 and 200 pounds provides a formidable physical presence as a cornerback.

Ultimately, this dude has “man-eating safety” written all over him with that build.

Or DB DeShon Elliott of Rockwall, who has tweeted: “Imma let y’all know now, that first game against Notre Dame I will be starting.”

Yes, these are “Strong’s guys.” They are disciplined, athletic, unafraid and without question, confident. Bolstering the Longhorns with “Strong’s guys” sounds good, of course, but the only true test is this: Will “his guys” produce wins on the football field?

At the end of the day - and the end of next season - that will be the only ques-

Armanti Foreman

tion that truly matters.

April/May - 2015

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Photo courtesy of UT Athletics | Patrick Meredith

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ENTER SHAKA SMART

BY TIM PRESTON

J

ust the name itself can evoke excitement and renewed energy amongst the Texas Longhorn basketball faithful.

Previous head coach Rick Barnes’ tenure in Austin ended on March 29. It was a Sunday.

Just a few short weeks after his Longhorn team had failed to reach the second round of the tournament for the sixth straight season, expediting his departure as Athletic Director Steve Patterson decided it was time to move in a different direction with the program.

The decision made sense. There were the NCAA Tournament struggles. There were the issues with in-state recruiting. There were the frustrations with a lack of conference success. There were the issues with no longer being the “big dog” amongst state of Texas universities. There were the issues of unfulfilled promise. There were the issues of fan support (particularly considering the impending destruction of the Erwin Center and movement into a different venue).

Coach Smart was hired on April 3. It was a Friday. Apparently, Steve Patterson knows how to get a weekend started off right.

THE RESUME Shaka’s credentials speak for themselves. * Head Coach at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) for the past six seasons * Led VCU to the Final Four in 2011 * Led VCU to at least 26 wins in every season as head coach * Led VCU to 163 wins in six seasons, tied for second most all-time for a head coach’s first six seasons * Coached three future NBA players * Coached six first-team All-Conference players * Successfully recruited five top-100 players to the Rams program Shaka’s teams play a fast and exciting brand of basketball. They play a brand of basketball which Texas’ decision makers hope will instill energy and hope into the fan base.

October 16. It’s a Wednesday.

It’s also the day that Texas basketball will officially begin practice for their new season under first year head coach Shaka Smart.

Texas fans will be ready.

Enter Shaka Smart.

April/May - 2015

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enter shaka smart

PLAYING STYLE While Texas can’t officially use the “Havoc” phrase to identify

In fact, over the last four seasons, VCU ranked first, first, third

Coach Smart’s playing style (the University just dropped their

and third, nationally, in turnover margin. It was under those

lawsuit to the rights of the term this week), the Longhorns will still

principles that the Rams were able to advance to the Final Four

be utilizing Smart’s frenetic, uptempo system when they take on

and it’s those same principles that Smart hopes to utilize the

opponents.

athleticism and skill which abound in the prep ranks of Texas High School basketball.

So, what is the style?

Cameron Ridley

On Defense:

Defensive Principles:

Much of what people recognize about Smart’s system begins

Full-Court Pressure

with his defense. Smart’s teams will look to apply heavy pressure

* Smart’s defense functions essentially like a diamond of pres-

and trap off of made baskets and free throws for much of the

sure, with an inbound defender, two guards/wings who will look

game.

to trap, a safety guard/wing at the high key and a safety big at the tip circle and as a last resort at the rim.

The concept is simple…pressure leads to turnovers and turnovers leads to easy baskets.

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* Height/length on the inbounds: Texas will look to put tall wings

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enter shaka smart

or athletic power forwards as the inbound defender. * Low corner trap: Texas will attempt to funnel the inbounds pass to the low corner so that they can trap down with a wing and the inbound defender. * Recovery after rotation: Texas will attempt to initiate longer passes across the court by maintaining quality recovery angles after ball rotation from the offense in the backcourt Half-Court * Smart’s half-court defense functions comparably in that it wants to create turnovers * Guards/wings will be expected to play passing angles and be aggressive in their spacing away from the ball * Ball pressure will be heavy and out to the three point line * The defense will look to funnel the ball into the center of the defense and into help situations (this should be a real strength with Ibeh/Ridley/Cleare).

Smart’s defense is his calling card and something of a gamble considering the strength of guard play in the Big 12 over the years. However, Texas has such quality athletes available to them through prep avenues, that the risk is a calculated one.

Offensive Principles: * Similarly to Coach Barnes, Smart’s offense will be heavy on ball screens * Smart wants ball screens that pull help defenders into the middle of the lane to open shooters and draw interior defenders for dump offs/alley oops * The main difference is in the scope of the offense and what Smart believes to be a good shot * Smart puts a higher priority on shooters and early shot clock/transition baskets * This is aided by the aforementioned turnovers that Texas will look to create on defense

Isaiah Taylor

country but, for a power conference team, the Longhorns will play at a tempo which will be entertaining for its defensive intensity as well for its purpose to get early looks in the shot clock in an effort to keep the opposition on its heels.

It’s unlikely that Texas will be one of the fastest playing teams in the

April/May - 2015

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enter shaka smart

THE ROSTER As is the case whenever teams switch coaching staffs, one of the first questions fans of a program will inevitably ask is whether or not the team will lose some of their roster to turnover.

Look no further than the last time Texas replaced their coach. When Rick Barnes took over for Tom Penders, the Longhorns lost two significant contributors in Luke Axtell and Bernard Smith (as well as a highly sought after recruit in Anthony Goode when it was clear that Penders wasn’t returning).

It’s natural.

No matter how much the company line is that players commit to universities and not coaches, the opposite is almost always true.

Players commit/stay at a school directly depending on how they see themselves fitting into the new coach’s system.

Connor Lammert

So, what does that mean for the Longhorns…or Cameron Ridley…or Shaquille Cleare…or Connor Lammert… or Jordan Barnett…or the two commits who signed with Texas when they believed Rick Barnes would be their coach on the 40 acres?

Well, apparently, it meant only good things.

Within minutes of the announcement, national top 40 guard recruit Kerwin Roach Jr. (of North Shore) voiced his excitement of the hire, saying “Nothing but good news” via his twitter page.

Senior big men Connor Lammert “Smart choice. Now let’s get to work. #Hookem” and junior guard Kendal Yancy “Ayeeeee we got Shaka!!! Welcome to the family #LonghornNation” responded comparably.

Still, it was two other guards that left Longhorn fans the most concerned as to their ultimate comfort level with the hire.

First, Jordan Brand Classic honoree Eric Davis (Saginaw, MI) affirmed his commitment to the Horns after a solid performance

Then, a week and a half later, the Longhorns got the biggest news of all, when junior guard Isaiah Taylor announced he would be returning to Austin for his third season, forgoing the NBA Draft and a chance at playing professionally.

“Glad to be a Longhorn! Feels good,” Taylor said by way of his Instagram feed. “Looking to get this new era started. Love the guys on the team. Spending another year with my teammates and coaching staff is a great feeling.”

And now, barring a summer transfer (which, admittedly, isn’t out of the question) the Longhorns have the luxury of entering the upcoming season with their previous roster almost totally intact (minus the loss of senior Jonathan Holmes and the expected departure of freshman Myles Turner).

Enter Shaka Smart…enter Kerwin Roach Jr. and Eric Davis… return Isaiah Taylor and everybody else…

Texas fans are ready.

in the all-star outing where he had 14 points and two assists.

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Kraken_Texas_mechanical.indd 1

5/19/11 2:17:09 PM

BACK IN THE SADDLE After being shut out in the 2014 NFL Draft, five Longhorns had their names called in 2015.

By Justin Wells

Malcom Brown 1st Round 32nd overall

I

t was worth the wait.

2014 Associated Press, Sporting News and Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) squads.

University of Texas defensive tackle Malcom Brown was selected by the New England Patriots with the 32nd pick in the

“The thing you like about Malcom is he’s so aggressive at the

first round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

point of attack,” head coach Charlie Strong said. “He’s a player that can get off blocks, but he can make plays. He’s got out-

Brown is the 44th first-round NFL draft choice in Texas history,

standing quickness and agility. He’s one of those guys that can

the last occurring in 2013 when Kenny Vaccaro was selected

control the line of scrimmage.”

15th overall by the New Orleans Saints.

Last season, Brown tallied a career-high 72 tackles and led Brian Orakpo was the last Longhorn defensive lineman to go in

the Longhorns in sacks (6.5), tackles for loss (15) and forced

the first round (13th overall to Washington in 2009) and Marcus

fumbles (2), and tied for QB pressures (8). He became the first

Tubbs was the previous UT defensive tackle to be selected in

defensive tackle to lead Texas in tackles for loss and sacks

the opening round (23rd overall to Seattle in 2004).

since Tony Degrate in 1984, the year he won the Lombardi Award. Brown ranked tied for ninth (first among DTs) in the Big

Brown played all 39 games (26 starts) during his three seasons

12 in sacks (0.50 per game).

at Texas. He surrendered his final year of eligibility and declared for the NFL Draft in January.

“He’ll be a success because of his work ethic,” Strong said. “He works hard and comes to work each and every day. It doesn’t

He had to wait until the final pick of the first round, but he was

matter who he’s going against, he’s always looking to get bet-

relieved to finally hear his name called by NFL commissioner

ter.”

Roger Goodell.

David Thomas (third round in 2006) was the last Longhorn “It was a great feeling,” said Brown, who watched the draft with

selected in the NFL Draft by New England. Kenneth Sims (first

his family in Austin. “I’ve been waiting for a long time. This was

overall in 1982) and Raymond Clayborn (16th overall in 1977)

a life long goal to hear my name called on that stage.”

were the other Longhorns drafted in the first round by the Patriots.

A native of Brenham, Texas, Brown emerged as one of the best defensive linemen in the nation last season. The two-year

While Brown was excited to get drafted in the first round,

starter was named a 2014 finalist for both the Bronko Nagurski

spending the evening with his family made it more special.

Trophy (top defensive player) and Outland Trophy (top interior lineman).

“Just being around my family and seeing everyone happy when they called my name,” Brown said about what he’ll remember

He became the 47th Longhorn (eighth defensive tackle) to earn

most about the day.

consensus first team All-America honors by appearing on the

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April/May - 2015

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- 2015 NFL DRAFT -

Jordan Hicks 3rd Round 84th overall

T

exas linebacker Jordan Hicks was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 20th pick (84th overall) in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft tonight.

Hicks is the fourth Texas linebacker selected in the draft during the last six years. Keenan Robinson (fourth round in 2012 to Washington), Emmanuel Acho (sixth round in 2012 to Cleveland) and Roddrick Muckelroy (fourth round in 2010 to Cincinnati) join Hicks on the list. Acho has spent the last two seasons in Philadelphia.

“I’ve been talking to Philly for a while, actually,” Hicks said about being picked by the Eagles. “I went on a pre-draft visit there and had a great time, felt really comfortable and enjoyed meeting with all the coaches and getting a feel for the place. I really like the city, and I know the organization is doing big things right now, so I can’t wait to get there and get going.”

A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, Hicks was the second Longhorn to be taken in this year’s draft. Texas has had at least two players selected in the first three rounds in 13 of the last 15 years. There have been at least two taken overall in 51 of the last 54 NFL Drafts, dating back to 1962.

Last season, Hicks was a key cog in a UT defense that ranked No. 25 nationally in total defense (348.5 yards per game), No. 11 in both passing yards allowed (184.2 pg) and sacks (3.08 pg), and 22nd in third-down conversion defense (35.3 percent).

“Jordan has a lot of skill,” head coach Charlie Strong said. “He’s someone that can go in coverage and cover backs or anyone he needs to. He does a great job of dropping into a zone or matching up, but he’s also very physical at the point of attack where he can run downhill and take on blockers.”

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Hicks ended his five-year career with 299 tackles, 24 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. He shook off a pair of injury-plagued seasons (2012-13) to record 147 tackles in 2014, a total that ranks tied for seventh on the school’s single-season list. Hicks was a second-team All-America choice from both the Walter Camp Football Foundation and the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), and a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation’s best defensive player.

“The thing about Jordan is he’s very smart,” Strong said. “He’s just like another coach out on the field. He’s someone who did a great job this year getting our defense lined up, and guys respected him because of how hard he worked.”

Defensive tackle Chris Akins was the last Longhorn selected by Philadelphia, going in the seventh round in 1998. Britt Hager was last UT linebacker to get drafted by the Eagles (third round in 1989). But it will be Acho who will help provide guidance to Hicks moving forward.

“Making this transition from college to the NFL is going to be huge, and I think having somebody like [Emmanuel] who I know and have a really good relationship with, we stay in contact all the time, he’s the guy I usually turn to if I need something like advice in football, because I know he’s been through it,” Hicks said.

Hicks knows there will be an adjustment at the professional level, but his experience at Texas should help prepare him for the transition.

“Obviously I’m not going to sit here and say I know what to expect because it’s new,” Hicks said of the transition to the NFL. “You can’t be ready for something brand new. You have no clue what it truly means to step into the situation, but I also know who I am, and I’ve been through some things in my life that I’ve overcome, and I’ve learned a lot about myself since I’ve been at The University of Texas.”

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- 2015 NFL DRAFT -

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exas had its third player selected in the 2015 NFL Draft when defensive back Mykkele Thompson was chosen by the New York Giants with the eighth choice (144th overall) during Saturday’s fifth round.

New England chose Malcom Brown with the final pick in Thursday’s first round and Philadelphia took Jordan Hicks in Friday’s third round of the draft, which has spanned the last three days in Chicago.

The Longhorns now have had at least three players selected in 12 of the last 13 NFL Drafts.

Thompson is the fifth UT defensive back to be picked in the last five drafts.

“It’s always great,” Thompson said of continuing the tradition of Texas defensive backs playing in the NFL. “The older guys laid the foundation for us, and we just want to uphold the tradition they put ahead and keep it going. It’s great to part of something like that.”

Cornerback Aaron Ross was the last Longhorn selected by the Giants, going in the opening round in 2007.

Thompson will join cornerback Chykie Brown and running back Chris Ogbonnaya as former Texas players on the New York roster.

“I haven’t had a chance to spend time with Chris, but of course Chykie, with him being a DB, we’ve had conversations,” Thompson said. “It’s always great to know somebody that’s from your school on the roster. I know Chykie will do nothing but push me.”

last four seasons, Thompson ranked seventh on the team in tackles (69) in 2014 and averaged 7.0 stops during the last seven contests.

He posted a career-high 72 tackles in 2013.

“Mykkele is really good cover guy and also played the nickel position, but he has a lot of skill and a lot of ability,” head coach Charlie Strong said. “He has a lot of range when he’s in the middle of the field, but he’s good enough to play man coverage because he has height, and can get into receivers’ bodies and make them work to catch the ball.”

For his career, Thompson started 25 games and tallied 213 tackles, including 125 solo stops, seven tackles for loss and two interceptions. He was also a regular on special teams, contributing three career blocked kicks (two punt/one field goal). His two blocked punts in 2012 tied for the Big 12 lead.

While there are two Longhorns on the current New York roster, Thompson is just the third to be selected by the team in nearly 50 years. Rod Babers was picked in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. Prior to him, Phil Harris was chosen in the seventh round of the 1966 draft.

“That was the only team that I took a visit to,” Thompson said. “I went and saw their facilities and everything and got a great vibe from everyone on the staff. I had a feeling I would end up with them, I just didn’t know when it was going to happen.”

A two-year starter who played in all 52 games the

Mykkele Thompson 8th Round 144th overall

April/May - 2015

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- 2015 NFL DRAFT -

Quandre Diggs 5th Round 200th overall Bryant Westbrook (first round, 1997) and safety Van Malone (second round, 1994).

Last season, Diggs was a key cog in a defense that ranked No. 25 nationally in total defense (348.5 yards per game), No. 11 in both passing yards allowed (184.2 pg) and sacks (3.08 pg), and 22nd in third-down conversion defense (35.3 percent).

T

exas had its fourth player selected in the 2015 NFL Draft when defensive back Quandre Diggs, little brother of former Longhorn Quentin Jammer, was picked by the Detroit Lions with the 24th choice (200th overall) during Saturday’s fifth round.

Earlier in the day, the New York Giants chose defensive back Mykkele Thompson in the fifth round. New England selected defensive tackle Malcom Brown with the final pick in Thursday’s first round and Philadelphia took linebacker Jordan Hicks in Friday’s third round of the draft, which has spanned the last three days in Chicago.

The Longhorns now have had at least four players selected nine times in the last 13 years. Diggs is the seventh UT defensive back to be picked in the last six drafts.

Texas has had two defensive backs taken in four of the last 10 years with the last occurrence in 2011 with Aaron Williams (second round, Buffalo) and Curtis Brown (third round, Pittsburgh).

Diggs is looking forward to the transition to the NFL and excited to be taken in the same draft as one of his closest friends. “It’s great,” Diggs said of Thompson and he being drafted on the same day.

“Mykkele’s my brother, that’s my best friend. He’s one of the people who definitely pushed me. I’m sure we’ll see each other, and it’s a blessing that we’ve got this chance. With us being roommates in college and friends and coming in together and both going out getting drafted together, it’s a blessing.”

Diggs becomes the first UT player selected by Detroit since 2006 (offensive tackle Jonathan Scott, fifth round). Longhorns selected by Detroit since 1994 have also included wide receiver Roy Williams (first round, 2004), defensive end Cory Redding (third round, 2003), defensive tackle Shaun Rogers (second round, 2001), cornerback

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“A lot of people are going to question his size, but he plays very big,” head coach Charlie Strong said of the 5-foot-10, 195-pounder. “He can cover and may not have top end spend, but he makes up for it with his intelligence. He plays within himself, studies receivers, studies splits, studies everything the offense does. He can do those things because he’s such a smart player and he loves working at it.”

A four-year starter and three-time All-Big 12 selection (2011, 2013, 2014), Diggs ended his career tied for ninth on the UT all-time interceptions list (11) with Mossy Cade (1981-83) and William Graham (1979-81). Diggs’ 37 career pass breakups are also tied for ninth with Cade on the school’s all-time list.

Diggs ended his career with 241 tackles, including 157 solo stops and 17 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles. He had a careerhigh 73 tackles in 2014.

A native of Angleton, Texas, Diggs joins Jammer, an All-America cornerback and a member of the Texas Athletics Men’s Hall of Honor, was selected with the fifth overall pick in 2002 by San Diego where he played for 11 seasons (2002-12). He also spent 2013 with Denver.

Diggs’ selection has special meaning to his family.

“It means a lot,” Diggs said. “It’s big for my family. I was actually the first one to graduate, and now me and my brother have this great thing for my family. That’s what’s important to me, just putting up my family and being respectful for them. I love them to death. I’m going to enjoy the rest of the day with them and soak it all in.”

Diggs envisions playing a similar role in the secondary as he did at Texas.

“I think I’m going to playing a lot of nickel and inside out,” Diggs said.

“They like my versatility. I just have to go out and prove myself. It’s the same thing I did when I was at Texas.”

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- 2015 NFL DRAFT -

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exas had its fifth player selected in the 2015 NFL Draft when tight end Geoff Swaim was announced Saturday as the 29th choice (246th overall) of the seventh round by the Dallas Cowboys.

Earlier in the day, the New York Giants chose defensive back Mykkele Thompson in the fifth round and Detroit tabbed cornerback Quandre Diggs in the sixth round. New England selected defensive tackle Malcom Brown in Thursday’s first round and Philadelphia took linebacker Jordan Hicks in Friday’s third round of the draft, which has spanned the last three days in Chicago.

This marks the most Longhorns selected since there were six in 2010. This is also the fifth time in last 10 years UT has had five or more.

Swaim is the first Longhorn to be drafted by Dallas since 1999 (WR Wane McGarity, fourth round) and only the second since 1987.

The last UT tight end to be chosen was Jermichael Finley, going in the third round of the 2008 draft to Green Bay. Swaim, who spent the last two years at Texas after transferring from Butte (Calif.) College, was excited to hear his name announced by the Cowboys.

“It was just relief,” Swaim said. “That’s

the biggest thing. The past four or five hours have been pretty intense. No matter where you go in the draft, it’s exciting, and I’m just glad to have the opportunity to be where I am and excited to get to work for sure.”

A native of Chico, California, Swaim was primarily a run blocker at Texas, though he did post 10 receptions for 70 yards in 2014 when he was an honorable mention All-Big 12 choice. The 6-foot-4, 250-pounder played in all 26 games during his two years, including 22 starts, and his 19 straight starts at the end of 2014 led the offense.

“Swaim is a physical, tough guy who just really plays hard at tight end and special teams or wherever he’s needed,” head coach Charlie Strong said. “He’s a guy that’s going to leave it all on the field and he’s willing to do whatever is necessary to be successful.”

Swaim will see some familiar faces in Dallas as former Texas players Donald Hawkins, Tony Hills and Chris Whaley are on the current roster. Swaim, Hawkins and Whaley were teammates in 2013.

“It will be cool to play with the guys that I’ve known and have a relationship with,” Swaim said. “That will be a nice way to transition for sure. After that point it will turn into business and I’ll get to work.”

Geoff Swaim 7th Round 246th overall

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2015 DRAFT Q The Longhorns’ five selections in this year’s NFL Draft are the most since they had six in 2010. This is

The Longhorns have had 335 players chosen on draft day and had at least one player selected in 77 of the 80 NFL Drafts, including a record 76 consecutive (1938-2013).

also the fifth time in last 10 years UT has had five or more selections.

2015 Undrafted Free Agents Nate Boyer (Seattle) Malcolm Brown (Rams) John Harris (Eagles) Jaxon Shipley (Cardinals) Cedric Reed (Bills)

Nate Boyer

This is the fourth year in the last seven the Longhorns have a first-round draft choice including Kenny Vaccaro (2013 by New Orleans), Earl Thomas (2010 by Seattle) and Brian Orakpo (2009

by Washington).

With Jordan Hicks’ selection Friday, the Longhorns have had

Kenny Vaccaro

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at least two players taken in the first three rounds in 13 of the last 15 NFL Drafts. New England selected Malcom Brown in the first round Thursday. In fact, at least two Longhorns have been drafted in 51 of the last 54 years, dating back to 1962.

insidetexas.com

QUICK HITTERS On Thursday, Malcom Brown (New England) became the fourth player under Strong to be drafted in the first round during the last two years.

Last season, Louisville had three first round picks in safety Calvin Pryor (18th overall to New York Jets), defensive end Marcus Smith (26th overall to Philadelphia) and quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (32nd overall to Minnesota). Strong was the head coach with the Cardinals from 2011 to 2014. Since 1995, Strong has coached 13 players selected in the first round and 31 taken in the first four rounds.

Texas holds the NFL record with 17 players selected in the 1984 draft.

Malcolm Brown

Despite not having a player selected in the 2014 draft, seven Longhorns ended up signing as free agents. Six Longhorns from that class were on NFL rosters last season including Carrington Byndom (Carolina), Donald Hawkins (Dallas), Trey Hopkins (Cincinnati), Jackson Jeffcoat (Washington), Adrian Phillips (San Diego) and Chris Whaley (Dallas). The six first-year players on NFL rosters was tied with Baylor and Oklahoma for the most among Big 12 schools and tied for 21st in the nation.

Jackson Jeffcoat

Texas has had 44 players selected in the first round with three of those Longhorns — Kenneth Sims, 1982; Earl Campbell, 1978; Tommy Nobis, 1966 — earning the honor of being the first player selected overall.

With Mykkele Thompson’s and Quandre Diggs’ selections in the fifth round Saturday, Texas has had seven defensive backs chosen in the last six drafts. In addition, there have been at least two defensive backs taken in four of the last 10 years with the last occurrence in 2011 with Aaron Williams (second round, Buffalo) and Curtis Brown (third round, Pittsburgh).

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INSIDE THE TEX Texas’ Identity Takes Shape

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here was actually a lot on display in the Texas Spring game besides the question of whether Swoopes or Heard outperformed the other and revealed a more promising future for the Texas offense.

The defense played quite well, the team exhibited some interesting strengths and weaknesses, and our eyes got to see exactly how far things have progressed.

From the strengths on display in the game, you can start to see a picture of who this team is, or better, who they could become in 2015.

Let’s start on defense, where things were promising.

XAS GAMEPLAN

by Ian

Poona Ford (95) is part of a strong defensive front

Boyd

Defensive Takeaways from the Spring

Shiro Davis (1)

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he play of the defensive line was the most promising reve-

ence and get adequate pass-rush while dropping eight defend-

lation from the Orange and White scrimmage. After various

ers into coverage, a tactic that made hay in the 2014 season.

practice notes had Paul Boyette stepping into the nose tackle role, the staff seemed to move back to the notion that the best

The depth of this unit in 2015 means that not only can Texas

way to attack the middle was by deploying Hassan Ridgeway at

mix and match which players are lined up where to best exploit

nose tackle, where he had six sacks in 2014.

opponents or shore up weaknesses behind them, but they’ll also be more immune to wearing down as they did in 2014 against

The strongside DE position, that’s usually deployed as a 5-tech

BYU, Baylor, Arkansas, and other foes. Of course, the offense

or 4-tech, was manned by Shiro Davis, who seems most com-

will have a role to play there as well.

fortable mixing it up in the trenches. Ford and Boyette played the 3-tech/4-tech position and each one had moments of sheer

Overall the prospects for the pass-rush look good next year as

domination. Bryce Cottrell contributed a great deal to the pass-

the LB corps also flashed some real potential. The staff used

rush from the Fox/weakside end spot on the 2nd team and will

Naashon Hughes in a variety of different places, portending

likely factor in as another strongside end with Davis, perhaps

what they’ll be able to do with future talents like Derick Rober-

replacing him in pass-rush situations.

son or any of the numerous Fox prospects in the 2016 class.

Given the play of Ford and Boyette at 3-tech, and the ability of

Inside linebackers Malik Jefferson and Edwin Freeman were

Ridgeway to get to the QB regardless of where he’s lined up,

impossibly quick in this game and the suddenness and range at

it’s probable that “Green Mile” will play nose tackle again this

the LB position when they share the field with Hughes will create

season.

a nightmarish hellscape for spread passing teams in 2015 if the younger LBs can master their pass drops and keys well enough

The big news here is that Texas might be able to play a Cottrell-

to get on the field.

Ridge-Ford DL against some of the Air Raid teams in the confer-

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insidetexas.com

Gameplan | Identity Takes Shape

Here’s a picture of a type of pre-snap look the defense can give

protection and necessitating that the H-back or RB stay behind

the offense with Hughes, Malik, Freeman, and a nickel package

to help protect the passer.

on the field: Who’s playing coverage? Well you have a nickel or corner on all the best receivers while Hughes and Freeman are well leveraged to cover the H-back or running back out of the backfield.

There’s no easy place to attack because there are so many good athletes in coverage. The offense also faces long odds of the OL quickly recognizing and blocking who’s coming or the QB quickly determining where the ball should go and geting it there when blitzers include people like Ford, Malik, and Ridgeway.

Another example from the same look:

Here’s a picture of a type of pre-snap look the defense can give the offense with Hughes, Malik, Freeman, and a nickel package on the field:

Now you have Ridgeway long-sticking his way to the field with the Fox coming in behind him to attack the hapless center who’s inevitably turned away from him to control Ridgeway. Meanwhile, Malik’s blitz of the opposite end is totally shielded from view.

Does everyone now understand why moving Malik to inside Who’s blitzing? What angles are they blitzing from? Who’s going

linebacker is the way to go? Good.

to be playing coverage? Where are the weak spots in coverage to attack?

Because Hughes, Malik, and Freeman are all effective on these sorts of blitz, or in coverage, the combinations are endless. The

Those are all the questions the offense will be trying to answer

hope for Texas’ summer and fall should be that these players

before the snap, here’s one of the potential answers:

all come a long way in their mastery of the playbook, their keys, and the fundamentals of modern Texas LB play so that this

Based on his alignment in the box, the offense has to be

package becomes possible.

concerned with the Fox linebacker as he could knife through the A or B gap and cause serious problems, but in this example

The secondary was interesting to observe in the spring game

the defense drop him into coverage while bringing a safety and Malik off the strongside edge, overwhelming that side of the

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Gameplan | Identity Takes Shape

as the best DB on the roster was held out (Duke Thomas) while

Kris Boyd, PJ Locke, DeShon Elliott, or Davante Davis might all

younger players manned the critical positions that make all of

provide answers there, we won’t really know until we see them

the games diagrammed above possible.

in action in the fall. Texas will be more than fine with Haines, but this defense hits another level with a stud back there.

John Bonney’s play was highly encouraging and it would seem that Texas has now found answers for two of the three coverage

The 3rd corner position should be a feisty battle this fall.

positions, leaving questions now about the 2nd cornerback posi-

Antwuan Davis has flashed some and Bryson Echols had a

tion and the free safety.

fantastic scrimmage driving on underneath routes despite having “don’t get beat deep” instructions in the coverages that make

Both Jason Hall and Adrian Colbert flashed some potential as

doing so more difficult. Holton Hill and Boyd both might have

strong safeties with each contributing as box players who could

more talent than either and will undoubtedly get their chances

diagnose plays and make open field tackles. The question is at

as well.

deep safety, where the best offenses will require that player to be a factor both in deep coverage and against the run. Dylan

Texas will probably be pretty good on defense again in 2015

Haines is solid in that role, but this defense really wants a su-

with the potential to be great in 2016.

perstar there who can line up deep but possesses the effective range to clean up in the run game.

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insidetexas.com

Offensive Takeaways from the Spring

Duke Catalon (21)

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he emergence of Petey Warrick in the WR corps is a great

In fact, Foreman flashed enough outside (albeit against walk-

thing as Texas needs a weapon in the slot and Armanti

ons) that you had to wonder if the best lineup for Texas in 2015

Foreman’s developmental path seems to be taking him outside

would feature Foreman, Warrick, and Marcus Johnson as the

at the X or Z position.

three receivers.

However, Warrick does not have the same explosiveness as

The fourth receiver spot generally went to Alex De La Torre,

Daje Johnson and if everyone’s former favorite athlete is not

Blake Whiteley, or Andrew Beck playing a hybrid TE/H-back/

ready to break through at the slot position or at least on special

Fullback/flex TE position that from here on out we’ll just call the

teams it’s a loss for the 2015 Texas offense.

“B” back. De La Torre seems to be sitting in the catbird seat here in claiming this position because the primary role for this

That said, Foreman’s deployment in the Spring game was a

player is as a blocker. It’s a shame Texas doesn’t have Geoff

major positive. The RPOs (Run/Pass Option) in the offense still

Swaim for one more year.

regularly provide him a chance to catch flash screen passes and utilize his acceleration in space but he also showed off his burst

What’s interesting about this position is that it’s ideal for DeAn-

in running timing routes and double-move patterns.

dre McNeal if he gets bigger again and learns to block and it also makes a lot of sense for DeMarco Boyd, who projects as a

The timing routes are essential as Tyrone Swoopes will need

violent fullback at the next level.

targets he can trust if the junior QB and West Coast offense are still going to play a role in the offense. The double moves

Devonaire Clarington is more likely to find a home in a double-

are important in allowing the offense to punish defenses that

TE spread offense in which he can line up in-line or flexed out

respond to RPOs with man coverage. Keep working on that

but not have to venture into the backfield and execute kick out

pump fake, Ty.

or lead blocks with his longer and leaner frame. His future in a spread offense operated by Jerrod Heard would be in question

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Gameplan | Identity Takes Shape

as he doesn’t bring the explosiveness to the Y receiver posi-

scrimmage to control Gray. It’ll also mean that Gray will need

tion that you’d look for in an ideal, Heard-friendly system. Of

to be able to control the defenders that have eyes to quickly

course, Clarington may not find a home at Texas at all regard-

join the box with his cuts.

less if he can’t pass the NCAA Clearinghouse.

If he can beat the extra defender and allow his blockers to D’Onta Foreman and Duke Catalon both flashed some

account for everyone else, then Texas will be in good shape

abilities but the offense is clearly going to be defined by

against most of the defenses on the schedule. For instance,

Johnathan Gray, from whom Texas needs that elusive 1k yard

against TCU:

season in order to be a winning football team next season.

The offensive line has reached step 1, for the most part they are able to avoid penetration and negative plays unless playing across from superior talent on the defensive front. If Gray is one of the best talents on the offense, which he clearly is by virtue of his athleticism and experience, then freeing him up will require that the offensive line works at advantage whenever possible because they lack the firepower to overwhelm opponents.

That means that Texas will need the receivers and blockers listed above to help threaten the defense with explosive plays across the line of scrimmage in order to prevent opponents from being able to focus enough resources at the line of

The two nearest DBs to the box, the strong safety and boundary corner, are controlled by the RPO options to throw the hitch or the bubble screen, so that means that the extra defender Gray will need to outmaneuver will be a safety. If Gray can consistently juke that extra defender then Texas will be able to move the ball effectively on the ground in 2015.

This assumes though that Texas successfully blocks their front, which Gray can also help the OL and B player do by threatening the cutback lane and creating hesitation for the linebackers. Given their struggles with the 2nd team Texas DL, it’s hard to believe that this OL will be able to consistently win evenly matched battles with the league’s better fronts in 2015.

Dorian Leonard

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insidetexas.com

Texas’ Identity in 2015

U

T’s overall strategy under Strong is basically to assemble

football and score enough points on offense to win games when

as many big, fast, and raw athletes as possible in Austin,

the defense keeps an explosive opponent under 30.

turn them into dogs, and then deploy them in simple schemes to physically overwhelm the rest of this finesse-heavy conference.

If that vision is realized and all of Texas’ assets on the 2015 roster are brought to bear, than end result could be eight wins or even

Tactics in 2015 are likely to include a variety of RPOs from spread

better if the team finds luck with the schedule as they did last year

formations on offense and different zone blitzes or max coverages

when they faced beat up Texas Tech and West Virginia teams

on defense. These tactics are tied together at the operational

down the stretch.

level, which will define how the Longhorns perform in 2015.

If the team can’t be united around these identities, or others that At the operational level, Texas has to get Gray going and, with

similarly leverage the team’s strengths, than the overall lack of

the depletion of the secondary, they need their young linebackers

talent could bring another losing season to Austin.

to figure things out so the defense’s identity can be built around pressure. The Spring game revealed that team’s highest upside is that of a defensive football team that can actually control the

YO U HYD R ATE

WE D O NAT E

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2 0 16 R EC RU I T I Dontavious Jackson LB Alief Elsik (2016) How it fits at Texas: This kid is huge, and immediately reminds you of Steve Edmond just because of his sheer size and how he moves about as well as the big fella. He’s built to be a Saban linebacker who can reach any play between the tackles and then stonewall runners with his size and power. For Texas, he’s a true mike linebacker who has some real speed when he starts coming downhill. He’d be nasty in UT’s blitz package, like Edmond was, or if he grows to 260+, he could become a DL/LB hybrid in the mold of Courtney Upshaw. - Ian Boyd Coach Says: When you build an inside linebacker in your mind, this is the way he comes out looking. Big, athletic, can make plays from sideline to sideline, and carries a violent disposition. With him being as big as he is currently, I wonder if he will outgrow the position or remain fluid enough to be a guy who can be a three down backer, but regardless you find a way to get him on the field. His ceiling maybe tapped.

How this affects Texas: It affects UT in that he’s the top ILB around and really digs Texas. Not to mention he fits a need position.

Eric has told us he’s the leanest of Longhorn leans, which is a good thing on multiple levels. Other prospects love his infectious attitude and he might bring a hard-hitting safety with him (Chris Brown.) No timetable on a commitment but Texas is in the driver’s seat. - JW

Mark Jackson DE/OLB Cibolo Steele (2016) How he fits at Texas: Mark Jackson moves like a mongoose, his lateral quickness and first few steps off the block are totally beyond what most HS OL can handle and the fact that he has long arms to help fend off lineman doesn’t make it any easier to block him. At Fox, his timing on the blitz and likely high aptitude for developing pass-rush moves would make him a nasty weapon in the pass rush.

I’m not sure how Texas accommodates all the great edge-rushers in this class. - IB Coach says: He is relentless, he plays fast, and he plays violent. That’s what I take away from this kid’s tape when I am finished watching. I love it when I turn on the tape and a kid is getting off the rock consistently, his motor is always running hot and he is making plays in the backfield. Jackson already shows the burst and athleticism run the arc and beat tackles around the edge and he has the ability to redirect at the drop of the hat and get underneath them. He flashes a nice little arm-over move that is quick and compact, which is the key to winning and getting your ribs beat up by lineman. Can he maintain his quickness if/when he adds muscle? That’s my only question.

How this affects Texas: In this day and age, the pass rusher has become increasingly valuable, especially in the pass-happy Big 12. If you don’t get to the QB, you probably don’t win. Jackson solves that problem. He doesn’t say much, but I know he and his family like UT. Now how much is a different story; his family stays close to the vest. With UT taking low numbers in 2016, Jackson is on the borderline as a take. In the end, I think Austin is where he signs. Former Cibolo Steele 5-star and Texas-Ex RB Malcolm Brown approves of this message. - JW

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insidetexas.com

ING NOTEBOOK Eric Cuffee, DB Waco High (2016)

By Ian Boyd and Justin Wells

How he fits at Texas: Either through highly effective holding, top shelf

quickness, or both, somehow Cuffee is brilliant at sticking with receivers in and out of breaks, jamming them at

the line, and cutting off their routes

when playing in off coverage. As a pure coverage player he’s a great fit for

what Strong is trying to do with his

corners so when you add a willingness to tackle, you have a great fit. - IB

Coach says: Man, this kid is like fly paper. Regardless of who lined up across from him, he was staying in their hip pocket and going step for step with

them. You aren’t getting anything deep on him and if you are able to complete a quick pass on him he is coming downhill and limiting the YAC. Love how

physical he gets when he presses his man, saw him drive several receivers into the sideline on tape. He seems woefully underrated, whoever signs him is getting a good one. Might be an all-American safety long-term.

How this affects Texas: The best thing the UT staff did in the recruitment

of Cuffee was honor their word. They told him if he attended the Junior Day coming at some point, but it made an impression on him. He’s in the middle of

Peyton Aucoin, TE - Brother Martin (New Orleans, LA) (2016)

ing Alabama joining the party on Monday. His performance at The Opening

How he fits at Texas: Aucoin, who’s

last month, they would reward him with an offer. Now obviously an offer was his recruiting boom - the moment when your national offers take off includRegionals was noteworthy as he gathered an Opening: Oregon invite. UT is

in good shape here for many reasons - proximity, relationship with the staff,

and opportunity to play early. The Horns biggest chip might be a former All-

American. Cuffee attends the same high school that linebacking legend Derrick Johnson did. And he’s a big fan. - JW

name sounds like that of a confederate officer in a civil war movie, is a strong in-line blocker thanks to his ability to use his size and feet to control the

momentum of defensive ends on zone

runs, as a lead blocker he brings a lot

of punch and that skill set makes him a good for the new “B” tight end position

in Texas’ offense. His skills as a receiver are harder to discern in his run-centric HS tape but he’s fluid enough with the

ability to extend and bring a ball in on

the run, which are baseline competencies even if he’s not a huge threat running routes in the seam. - IB

Coach says: If you are looking for a tight end that will line up and try to

kick the guy’s ass lined up across from him, then you will love Peyton Aucoin.

This kid doesn’t give you the dimension of being able to throw to him as a

receiving threat, but he will hit your butt until the cows come home and love every minute of it. Guys like Aucoin are a dying breed due to the way the

game has evolved, so it is always nice to see that guys like this still exist. I can see Charlie Strong falling for this type.

How this affects Texas: UT isn’t pulling any punches. They want TEs. Enter

Aucoin. The New Orleans based prospect visited Austin recently with his family and came away impressed. Aucoin’s best offers are UT, Arizona State, NC

State, and Vanderbilt. If LSU stays away, I really like Texas’ chances with the run-blocking force. And always remember, we use TE like NFL. - JW

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Culpepper’s Commentary Strong Spring

S

o there I was, face to face with Texas head coach Charlie Strong.

He had just made an impassioned speech to over a 100 ex-Longhorn football lettermen and their guests in the Red McCombs endzone suite. A beautiful place with a magnificent view of DKR-Memorial Stadium. He had mentioned that any former lettermen could call ahead and be granted access to watch practices this next season. It was a welcome gesture considering there are so many of those ex-Longhorns living in the Austin area. It was a step in the right direction, particularly since Doug English and Jerry Sizemore were in attendance.

I​ caught Strong after he had walked through an army of well-wishers. He shook every hand and posed for countless cell phone pictures. As the coach was on his way out, I called to him. He turned, smiled, and reached out to shake my hand. Firm grip, he looks you right in the eyes. Great smile. Energetic. Leader.

I​ knew he had enough and I went right to the point.

“Coach, the Big 12 can’t go through another co-championship, can they”?

No smile now, but those brown eyes were bearing in – I was afraid he might take away my T-Ring on the spot.

“No,” said Strong. “We will get it fixed, I’ll assure you at our conference meetings.”

And he was gone. He knew what I know. Figure out something – head to head, highest ranking in the playoff voting by the committee, strength of schedule – something, but get a champion for the season.

by Pat Culpepper

had tears forming in the corner of my eyes as I watched a screening of “My All-American”, the full-length beautiful love story and football journey of Freddy Steinmark and the 1969 National Champion Texas Football Team. It is to be released this fall on the heels of $25 million of publicity. It’s more than Rudy because Steinmark was an outstanding safety that made smashing tackles, key interceptions, and exciting punt returns. It is set on a much bigger stage than Hoosiers because, in the key game of the film, a nation of rabid college football fans watched Texas vs. Arkansas in Fayetteville along with President Nixon and Billy Graham in attendance. It was the game celebrating 100 years of College Football between two undefeated teams with Hall of Fame Coaches. ​ he most moving part of the film for me T was the conversation between Freddy and the surgeon in Houston on his chances of survival after the amputation of his left leg the week after the Arkansas game because of the discovery of bone cancer. In the film’s credits there was a short clip of the real Darrell Royal tossing the game ball to Steinmark in the dressing room after the win over Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. ​ any of is in the audience had played M on Royal’s earlier teams but the familiar scenes hit home in an emotional way. Credit for the screening setup and the get-together right down the street from the theater at El Rancho goes to Bill Hall who was part of that ’69 team as Frank Meding’s right hand man and now is an extremely successful businessman in Fort Worth. Along with Billy Dale, who scored that winning touchdown in the Cotton Bowl against the Irish. ​ s for the Texas Spring Game, I came away A with the following observations:

1. The Longhorns spread offense certainly speeds up their play and the sideline signals were much faster and without hesitation.

2. QB Coach Shawn Watson needs to stay on the sidelines during games to keep his QB’s focused and communicate with his co-offensive coordinator Joe Wickline.

3. Jerrod Heard will give Texas the best chance to win with its change in offense.

He is quick and scored on a run against the 1st team Texas defense. He has a strong enough arm and is a proven winner with confidence. Swoopes will be a good backup.

4. Wide Receivers Dorian Leonard, a redshirt freshman from Longview and Lorenzo Joe from Abilene will be good ones next season.

5. The Longhorn offensive line might still be a year away but they are already better than the group that played in 2014. Tackles need a little help.

6. Vance Bedford and the defensive staff are on track to have another fast and aggressive Texas defense.

7. Perhaps true freshman Malik Jefferson might not know all the defensive college secrets yet, but he can make plays in a hurry.

8. Johnathan Grey has a chance to have an outstanding year if Heard is the quarterback because of the threat of Heard pulling out the football. The key is the leadership among the Longhorn players this summer and what better motivation than playing Notre Dame on NBC Primetime at night in the season’s first game.

Hook’Em, Pat

​The day before at almost the same time I Pat Culpepper played for The University from 1960-62 and graduated from UT with a B.A. degree with honors in history. Pat coached college football for 12 years as an assistant at Texas, Colorado, Tulane, Baylor and Memphis State and was head coach at Northern Illinois from 1976-79. He also spent 16 years as a high school coach in Texas at Midland, Lufkin, Galveston Ball, Westfield and his hometown of Cleburne. He was selected to the Longhorn Hall of Honor in 1991. His commentary appears regularly in the Inside Texas magazine and at InsideTexas.com.

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COMPETITION IS

Texas’ quarterback competition will finally be settled this August.

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exas does not have a quarterback controversy,

coach Charlie Strong insists. The big question, now, is whether Texas has a quarterback.

For Strong, resolution is not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when.’

“At the end of the day,” Strong said, “somebody is going to step forward.”

It’s just that neither redshirt-freshman Jerrod Heard nor

incumbent Tyrone Swoopes decisively stepped forward dur-

ing the spring. Strong raised eyebrows when he announced, just before the 2015 Orange-White scrimmage, that Heard

had narrowed the distance over Swoopes. However, Strong is not ready to put Heard in the driver’s seat just yet.

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“Jerrod has closed the gap,” Strong said, “but I don’t know if Jerrod has done anything to unseat Tyrone as a starter.”

Strong may have shrewdly kept the contest wide-open to fuel the competitive fires within each candidate.

Others suggest that Strong should already have named a

starting QB. This way, there is a designated leader during voluntary summer workouts. To some extent, he did.

“Tyrone is still the No. I guy at this point,” Strong said, heading into the pre-season.

Keep an erasure handy when penciling in the depth chart.

This two-horse derby is headed for a down-to-the-wire, insidetexas.com

A GOOD THING But it’s the intangibles that give Jerrod Heard the edge.

photo finish that probably won’t be decided until late August.

offensive MO this spring.

Heard has the explosiveness that makes him a chance

Both candidates have embraced the up-tempo, spread of-

Co-offensive coordinator Shawn Watson puts it this way: to “go the distance” every time he touches the ball while Swoops “can run over you and hurt you.”

Still, Watson balks at the notion of rotating the two as costarters.

“I’ve always thought that if you have two quarterbacks,” Watson said, “then you don’t have one.”

It’s been surmised that both QBs will see meaningful snaps this season, if only to provide a change of pace for the de-

fense. This much is certain: ‘change of pace’ has been the

fense (installed this spring) like a long-lost friend. Swoopes concedes he was more comfortable when Texas went

no-huddle last season. The faster-pace allowed him to get

into an instinctive rhythm where he “didn’t have to think too much,” Swoopes said. Meanwhile, Heard ran the spread to

consecutive Texas state high school championships while at Denton Guyer.

So, who has the inside track?

Swoopes has a cannon of an arm and, at 6-5, 245 pounds, is a physical specimen. He did little to hurt his status as

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Swoopes | Heard OB-One during the annual spring scrimmage. Then again, he

His head coach, however, has sent mixed messages about

struction that torpedoed the team’s momentum during season-

ing the spring scrimmage, Strong said he would not be afraid

did little to dispel fears that he is still capable of the self-deending blowout losses to TCU and Arkansas. There is still

some question if Swoopes can read a defense or efficiently ascertain the call from the sideline.

In all fairness, Swoopes toiled behind one of the thinnest lines

in program history and wasn’t exactly surrounded by playmakers. He was considered a work-in-progress during recruitment and was thrown into the fire far sooner than expected.

Still, Swoopes’ 5-7 record simply means that his grasp on

the starting job is, at best, tenuous. The spot isn’t so much Swoopes’ to lose as it is Heard’s to gain.

Heard is one of the fastest guys on the team but was frustratingly inconsistent in the passing game this spring, insiders

report. But things began to click for the challenger during the

whether Heard is ready to play this year. Immediately followto start a redshirt freshman at Notre Dame on September 5.

It’s just that he preferred not to.

He qualified the remark three days later: “I have no fear at all playing a redshirt freshman. If he earns it and ends up

being the starter, I’m good with it because I know he is good enough.”

Heard, however, said nerves would not be an issue at South Bend. When informed that Strong had yet to anoint him as

ready for prime-time, Heard responded, “I love big stages like that. If it is my time, if my number is called, I’m just going to have to perform.”

A nationally-televised football game on a Saturday night in

South Bend is, historically, the biggest stage in college football.

The fact remains that Heard insists he thrives in that kind of fishbowl. Meanwhile, the more demure Swoops concedes:

“I’m learning how to live in the spotlight with everybody looking at you.”

The University of Texas is a helluva tough place to learn onthe-job if you are its starting quarterback. There is no doubt that both QBs still have a lot to learn. It’s just that Swoopes

is a soft-spoken, humble young man who candidly acknowledges that he dislikes contact and that he gets caught from

behind because “I’m not that fast.” It doesn’t lend itself well

to the huddle with the more confident, charismatic Heard as a final days of drills, Strong said. Heard’s attempts, more often

viable option.

than not, landed in the right spots.

This much is certain: quarterback will not be the team’s

It was no secret, however, what Heard can do with his feet.

season – regardless of who is behind center. When Strong

His escape-ability allows him to ad-lib and make something out of nothing when the play breaks down. (Coaches know

that. That’s why they insisted during the spring that Heard remain in the pocket a bit longer and get used to going through

strength in 2015. Nor will it be the shocking liability it was last walked off the field in 2014 following his first spring scrimmage in Austin, he thought to himself: “Oh God, it’s gonna be a long season.”

his progressions).

What a difference a year makes.

Heard also has the one intangible that Swoopes seems to

“Now, watching those two (QBs) go at it,” Strong concluded,

lack: confidence. Sheer, innate, unmitigated swag.

“I’m thinking this will be fun.”

“I was definitely ready to play last year,” Heard said.

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OFFENSE - SPRING DEPTH CHART

BY ERIC NAHLIN

As many questions as 2014 answered about Charlie Strong’s ability as a defensive minded head coach went unanswered on offense. The reason is three-fold. 1. Strong was left much more talent on the defensive side of the ball (four NFL draft picks on defense, one on offense). 2. Quarterback. 3.

Offensive line. Charlie was rightfully granted a pass for 2014, but the patience of a thirsty fan base is hard to satiate when you see sudden turnarounds in places like Fort Worth.

Pragmatic as he is, Strong made a couple of hires to infuse more ideas and functionality in the offense and we saw that tree bear fruit during the spring. Still, the offense is lacking star power and questions at quarterback persist, even if the position is in a superior place compared to last year.

Competition at all positions should improve play across the board. This was achieved by improving depth through early enrollees across the offensive line and the natural maturation of the 2014 class at running back and wide receiver.

If Texas fits these parts harmoniously into the offensive alterations (up-tempo, more zone read and run/pass options), you should see significant improvement over 2015.

Quarterback

Y - Wide Receiver JR Jacorey Warrick SR Daje Johnson SO Roderick Bernard

Comments: Strong raved about Warrick during the spring. Daje gonna Daje. Bernard was hurt but will be back for the fall.

Comments: Heard is certainly pushing and looks to play some, JR Tyrone Swoopes though Swoopes is still your RS FR Jerrod Heard starter. This one may play out well into the season.

QB

Y Z

LT

LG

C

Left Tackle

Comments: You have to love the persistence of senior Marcus Hutchins. Texas brought in SR Marcus Hutchins Jucos Tristan Nickelson and Brandon Hodges JR Brandon Hodges to push him and he’s responded by holding - or SO Tristan Nickelson on to his starting position thus far. The former offensive lineman, turned defensive lineman, turned offensive lineman is making the case to be a 20 game starter for your favorite team.

Center

Comments: Taylor Doyle

and Jake Raulerson had a SR Taylor Doyle spirited competition throughSO Jake Raulerson out the spring with Doyle holding a slight advantage.

Both have the intelligence the position and Coach Wickline demand. While

Z - Wide Receiver SR Marcus Johnson SO Armanti Foreman JR Ty Templin SO Jake Oliver

Comments: Armanti has to be on the field when Johnson comes back to full health. That could come in the form of playing Z or Y. I think him paired with Johnson from the slot, but he’s definitely and outside deep threat as well. Templin is a capable player; stereotypically reliable as he’s always where he should be and works his way back to the ball.

Doyle may have a bit more size, Raulerson is the better athlete.

Left Guard SR Sedrick Flowers RS FR Terrell Cuney

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Comments: Like Hutchins, senior Sedrick Flowers will have started a lot of game by the time his eligibility is up. His combination of size and ability to pull give him the advantage over the smaller Terrell Cuney. Flowers still has to work hard, though, because one line reshuffle could have affects on his position

Running Back SR Johnathan Gray SO D’Onta Foreman - or RS FR Duke Catalon

Comments: That’s not a Mack Brown ‘or’, that simply indicates they had a similar amount of snaps. Gray looks as good as he ever has while at Texas.

RB

Tight End - H Comments: Beck’s a solid blocker SO Andrew Beck with good hands. Whiteley’s a solid - or SO Black Whiteley receiver, but not a dynamic athlete.

Judging by Saturday these guys will often become a safety valve and possibly featured in the 3rd and shorts.

RG

RT

X

TE

X - Wide Receiver

Comments: This will play out for some time to come. I believe the staff likes DL as a deep SO Dorian Leonard threat but Lo-Joe is much better on the underSO Lorenzo Joe neath stuff and has more reliable hands.

Right Guard JR Kent Perkins RS FR Elijah Rodriguez FR Garrett Thomas

Comments: The safest bet to start

at his current position is junior Kent Perkins. The run game really needs Perkins to take the next step from solid to really good. The strongest player on the team, Perkins also moves well. Behind him are green youngsters in Elijah Rodriguez and Garrett Thomas, two players who may be athletic enough to receive look at offensive tackle down the line.

Right Tackle FR Connor Williams SO Tristan Nickelson - or JR Brandon Hodges JR Camrhon Hughes

Comments: True-freshman Connor Williams

was one of the revelations of spring ball. Rare is it a young lineman is ready to play so early but Williams looks to have the combination of size, intelligence and athleticism to pull off the feat. Like Hutchins, he’s also being pushed by Nickelson and Hodges as Wickline looks for his best five.

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DEFENSE - SPRING DEPTH CHART Charlie Strong’s inaugural Texas campaign undoubtedly proved his wizardry as a defensive mind. He took the same parts that previously comprised a soft and undisciplined defense and made them one of the Big 12’s best.

Heading into 2015, much of the 2014 defense’s key components have been lost to senior attrition, but he was still able to reinforce his reputation in the minds of many during the Spring game, especially when you take into consideration the young, inexperienced, and injured roster.

BY ERIC NAHLIN

Brightening the future further, the recent recruiting class will be on campus in a little over a month bringing in even more talented pieces who will likely play early. You’d rather not have to play young guys immediately, but under Strong and Vance Bedford’s leadership, you have to believe guys like Holton Hill, Deshon Elliott, Kris Boyd, and Anthony Wheeler will hit campus running.

Will Linebacker

Comments: The athleticism Jinkens flashed as a freshman seems to have diminished. That’s almost certainly due to SR Peter Jinkens him carrying more weight than his body was intended. When FR Edwin Freeman Jinkens left school many thought he’d never carry enough weight. He showed them, and then showed them some more. he went from about 205 pounds upon arrival to 236, in a league where he can get away with weighing less (@CameronTownsend). I had laid eyes on Ed Freeman for approximately three seconds when I saw him as a sophomore before I knew he was destined for linebacker and it would take no work to be the right size. He’s already about 235 but it’s not forced weight. He’s just a thick dude. He can still run and hit, though, and once he knows what he’s doing out there he’s a high upside starter. Linebacker was thin all spring, luckily help is on the way.

Comments: One of the highlights of the Spring game was the Bonney Collide, but just as important he was solid in coverage as well. He’s not a corner. He’s FR John Bonney not a safety. Bonney is a nickel and he’s going to be JR Kevin Vaccaro tougher to unseat than I previously thought. Vaccaro played in the box quite a bit in the Spring game which gave me a flashback or two to his brother. I’d love to see him step up and become a special teams stalwart.

Nickel

N

WILL

RCB

FOX

3|5T

Comments: Corner was decimated by injury giving the walk-on Strickland some looks. He’s small but a gamer.

SR Duke Thomas Duke is the vocal leader of the team. I have a good feeling FR Jordan Strickland he puts it all together this season and earns all-conference status.

Right Cornerback

3-Tech, 5-Tech Fox Defensive End SO Naashon Hughes JR Caleb Bluiett RS FR Derick Roberson

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Comments: Hughes looks to be improved since last year and he still has a lot of room for growth. Bluiett provides a great option versus teams who want to run the ball.

He’s also a quality pass rusher. These two should get the bulk of the snaps at Fox and have complementary skill sets; Hughes is better in space, Bluiett is more physical at the point of attack. Roberson has been battling injury issues but that hasn’t kept him from putting on good muscle. If healthy he’ll likely see the field in passing situations. Depending on how inside linebacker firms, Malik Jefferson could see time here, but judging by his productive Spring game, he’s not going anywhere.

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JR Hassan Ridgeway SO Poona Ford FR Jake McMillon FR Chris Nelson

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Comments: Ridgeway has the highest ceiling of any upperclassmen on the team and is a 1st/2nd round NFL talent. If he had Malcom Brown’s football disposition, we’re talking about a Top 15 pick for sure. I was pretty sure MB2 was a 3-year player towards the end of his freshman season. I started to get the same feeling about Ridgeway midway through the year. Texas doesn’t need Ridgeway to be a high NFL draft pick based on potential, it needs him to be drafted based on production as well. Aside from the quarterbacks, Ridgeway is the most important player on the team. Ford’s a budding star who plays with good leverage, strength, and surprising length.

I’ve heard positive things about McMillon both as an offensive lineman and now again on the defensive side. He’ll probably make some noise as an upperclassmen. Coach Rumph was always high on Nelson and believed the Florida product could have played as a freshman if needed, but Ford got that nod instead.

He may be a nose tackle, long term, but I have him projected here because I think he’s athletic enough to play 5-tech now. I may need to flip-flop Nelson and Norman but I’m not sure.

Cover Safety

CS

JR Dylan Haines JR Adrian Colbert

Comments: Haines is in no rush to relinquish his snaps and because he’s solid in coverage he may not lose many. I know Ian will be walking around with his chest puffed out if Haines holds off all the incoming talent and starts next year.

Muschamp:Gideon::Strong:Haines, imo. Colbert was running around and popping guys in the scrimmage. We’ll see if he has a leap in him or if he just becomes a solid depth player.

BOX

Mike Linebacker SR Dalton Santos JR Tim Cole FR Malik Jefferson

MIKE

Box Safety

Comments: Strong and Bedford used Hall as an extra linebacker coming downhill for much of the time to help in run SO Jason Hall support. This looks to be his long-term fit which means things will get interesting when Deshon Elliott hits campus. Ideally, Hall is the free safety and Elliott is the guy who plays closer to the box. I wonder if I’m misinterpreting skill-sets or...

Comments: I’m not going to Wally Pipp Santos... yet. He was the starter until he got hurt but he’ll be fighting for his job come fall ball. Tim Cole has worked hard since his arrival on campus and though he’s playing with a limited skill set athletically (not fast, a bit stiff), he’s a passionate gamer.

Often times fan’s favorite players are the guys who make plays regardless of character. Cole is one of my favorite guys on the team because of his high character. Jefferson’s future is as bright as we thought it was.

Comments: Options are so limited on campus currently that this is the depth FR Malik Jefferson chart if Texas played today. Under this - or listing, Hughes is really a Fox who plays SO Naashon Hughes Sam when Strong and Bedford morph from an even front to an odd one. Malik is the Sam in an even look, but with heavy nickel usage the role isn’t used very often. Jefferson needs to see the field early and often -- we probably all agree on that.

Sam Linebacker

SAM NT

LCB

SDE

Strong-side D-End Comments: As you can see, Texas is pretty deep here, though I can’t say there are difference-makers. Strong noted Davis was better versus the run SR Shiro Davis and Cottrell is better as a pass rusher. This was good to hear on Davis as he JR Bryce Cottrell had some mental lapses last year playing contain. It’s always been told to JR Quincy Vasser me that Cottrell is a mini Jackson Jeffcoat as a pass rusher. He gets to the quarterback because of his ability to use his strong hands guide offensive linemen. A pass rusher at SDE would be a boon for this defense as it could limit the need to blitz so often. Like at Fox, the pieces are interchangeable and complementary. In an up-tempo league it’s nice to be able to rotate your linemen. Vasser’s a depth player who will likely have more value in 2016 than in the upcoming season.

Nose Tackle

Comments: Boyette has quietly become a solid player. He’s also one JR Paul Boyette of the quiet leaders of the team who - or takes the time to mentor the younger SR Desmond Jackson players. Tank Jackson returns for JR Alex Norman his fifth year after taking a medical redshirt last year. He’s going to play a lot next year. It’s good to see Alex Norman make his way back from his back injury. Coming out of high school, I liked him more than Boyette so I’m interested to see how he finishes his career over the course of the next two season.

Left Cornerback

Comments: That should actually read ‘SO Antwuan Davis’.

Competition will be wide open in the coming months but the JR Bryson Echols talented Davis is starting to make some noise. He’s one of SGT WilliamsDavid the fastest guys on the team and probably the pound-forFR Jermaine Roberts* pound strongest. Echols is a feisty sort with good feet but SR Sheroid Evans* his awareness when the ball is in the air has hindered him at times. Both Evans and Roberts tore their ACL’s and its unknown what their status for 2015 is. You’d have to think Roberts will be out for the full year but what if Evans can come back and play for half a season? Maybe he does.

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From the Archives

Vondrell McGee runs the ball in the 2008 Orange-White game. He started four games at tailback and ran for 300 yards on 56 carries in 2009.

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- Graduate The University of Texas at Austin The University of Texas School of Law Winner of the 2014 Austin Under 40 (Au40) Award in Real Estate

Recognized as Rising Star by Texas Monthly and Super Lawyer magazines Real Estate | Construction | Business | Title Insurance John A. Hay III

Hook’em!

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