Inside Texas 2018 Season Preview

INSIDETEXAS.COM

2018 SEASON PREVIEW

2018 SEASON PREVIEW KRIS BOYD, BRECKYN HAGER AND A SWARMING TEXAS DEFENSE WILL BE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL 2018 CAMPAIGN.

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in this issue

Tom Herman on Year Two |

by

Justin Wells

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Wide-ranging Q&A on year two of the Herman era.

Big Expectations |

by

Mike Blackwell

Patrick Vahe looks to finish strong in his senior year.

3 Keys to UT Offense |

by

Joe Cook

Joe examines the keys to making the Longhorn offense successful.

Dawg Days |

by

Mike Blackwell

Kris Boyd’s talent, swagger sets the tone for UT secondary.

Will Defense Suffer in 2018? |

by

Paul Waddlington

Will the loss of key 2017 players affect this year’s defense?

2018 Team Preview |

by

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Eric Nahlin

A look at each position group on offense and defense

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Offense

44

Defense The Schedule |

by Ian

Boyd

Ian provides a scouting report for each opponent

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Publishers -- Michael Pearle, Clendon Ross | Managing Editor--Clendon Ross | Editor-- Mike Blackwell InsideTexas.com Editor -- Justin Wells | Lead Writer -- Bill Frisbie | Contributors -- Ian Boyd, Joe Cook Designer/Photographer -- Will Gallagher | Recruiting Analyst -- Eric Nahlin 2018 Season Preview To Subscribe/Customer Service -- Phone: 512-659-8167 | Email: help@insidetexas.com

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TOM HERMAN TA

THE INSIDE TEXAS

Q/A

FRISCO, TX — During last year’s Big 12 Media Days, Texas head coach Tom Herman spoke about changing the culture and establishing a foundation for not only winning, but building championship teams before his first season on the 40 Acres. His savvy, smart demeanor exuded confidence that he was the right man to right the ship known as Texas Football.

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ALKS YEAR TWO

by Justin Wells

2018 Season Preview

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photos by Will Gallagher

- Tom Herman Q/A -

I

n his second season at the helm

spoke to him. It was an assignment

rett) when Braxton (Miller) went down

in Austin, his Longhorns appear

for an American Literature class,

– that you protect the football, and

ready to take the next step with

to which he was assigned to write

does the offense put the ball across

something about your feelings. He

the goal line. That’s it. Completion

wrote it and felt like he wanted to post

percentage is great, long ball this,

and share it. I support him. That’s the

leadership that, and all that…are

beauty of social media.”

you protecting the football, are you

a talent-laden squad that returns double-digit starters and welcomes a “historic Top 5 recruiting class for 2018.” He’s keeping expectations to

managing the game, and does the

a minimum but there was a twinkle of mischief in Herman’s eyes during our interview during Big XII Media Days.

Like he knows that Year Two could, and should, be better than last year’s

ball cross the end zone more times What are you wanting to see out of

than not.”

each of these quarterbacks once fall ball begins?

Have you spoken to Ehlinger about possibly sliding more or getting out of bounds quicker, and not some much of the head-on collisions with linebackers and DBs? “Yeah…you tell him that certainly. But there’s just something in those guys – the Tim Tebows, Cam Newtons, JT Barretts – just those physical runners.

You try to educate them, but when it’s in your DNA, it’s very hard. Are you going to see him slide? Probably not.

Are you going to see him step out of bounds rather than lower the shoulder on a guy? I hope so, but I don’t ever think you’re going to see him just slide. I mean, I can tell him to, but I don’t know that that’s going to happen. We talk about it, but it’s easier said than done.”

In a perfect world, do you want to have a starting quarterback by Week 1 and be able to stick to that

Sam Ehlinger

one person?

7-6 team that knocked off Missouri

“Continued development. The chal-

“If that one person is playing winning

lenge is still the same. I’ve been very

football. Every coach would want

forthcoming in what we challenge

someone to separate themselves. In

both those guys (Sam Ehlinger and What did you think of (junior WR)

my opinion, coaches don’t choose

Shane Buechele) to do. We just need

Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s poem?

quarterbacks, they choose them-

to see more of it, we need to see it

selves by things we just talked about

in the Texas Bowl. Our discussion follows…

consistently, and at the end of the day “I was proud of him. I was proud of

– moving the football, protecting the

– and we dealt with this at Ohio State

him for expressing his feelings. I

football, and scoring points. In an

with Cardale (Jones) and J.T. (Bar-

ideal world, you’d like to have that

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- Tom Herman Q/A -

decision made before the first week, certainly.”

What are the clear-cut strengths of your team that you can count on all season?

“Certainly the defense. We return quite a few players, a lot of seniors, and I know that’s kind of odd considering we’re losing the Thorpe Award finalist, Co-Defensive Player of the Year, and the Defensive Lineman of the Year, but we do feel like we’ve got some quality depth there, some quality young players, especially in the secondary. And if Chris Nelson and other guys can pickup some of the slack from the loss of Poona Ford, then I feel we have a good chance Daniel Young

at being just as good if not better in some areas.”

You’ve discussed running one of the hardest programs in the country. Do your players have to like you or respect the plan you have in

shower you with unconditional love,

room has developed, aside from Kirk

we’re going to give you every tool and

Johnson, who makes it tough to tell

resource and education on the face

because he hasn’t played football in

of the planet in order to help you suc-

so long. Daniel Young, Toneil Carter,

place?

ceed. But we’re also going to hold you

“Respect the plan. They can like me

and we’re going to hold you account-

off the field, and I think a lot of them do. I think there’s four examples here – Vahe, Nelson, Beck, and Hager – if

to some very, very high standards, able if those standards aren’t met.

Any good parent would say the same thing.”

you ask ‘do you like coach Herman’, I imagine the answer would be yes.

When Herman was asked about

But you asked do they need to and

the new incoming running backs,

the answer is no. They don’t need to

freshman Keaontay Ingram and

like me or like the coaches. Just like

California grad transfer Tre Watson,

a kid doesn’t need to like his parent, he needs to respect his parent.

Respect the rules and expectations that the parent has set. In fact, when I’m asked to use a word to describe your program, I use the word ‘parental’ quite a bit. Meaning we’re going to

he remarked there’s some nervous anticipation, but quickly mentioned

Kyle Porter, and Tristan Houston were mentioned as guys that have developed and gotten better. He said ideally you wouldn’t want seven running backs on scholarship, but that’s where they are right now. He said he’s excited about Ingram and Watson, but equally excited to see the development of the guys returning for another season.

With the inside zone-style running game that Herman demands, a guy

that there are a group of guys that

like Ingram, the highest rated running

have busted their tails off to develop

back in Texas last year and an Under

and he thinks they have.

Armour All-American, fits this scheme like a glove. His ability to watch his

He said every single guy in that

blockers, wait for the hole, plant 2018 Season Preview

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- Tom Herman Q/A and accelerate through the crease

those three young DBs – BJ Foster,

and a 2nd rounder. The talent was

is something he did while leading

Caden Sterns, and Anthony Cook –

silly. Certainly left tackle, and need to

Carthage to back-to-back 4A state

are going to be rock stars when it’s

find a right guard (of the left tackles,

championships. It’s only a matter of

their turn. On offense, Collin Johnson

he mentioned Denzel Okafor and Cal-

time, development, and experience

got better, LJ Humphrey got better;

vin Anderson). At right guard, Patrick

before Ingram flourishes in this of-

the kid is a like a Swiss Army knife.

Hudson, and depending on what we

fense. This is also where a guy like

He can do just about everything. It

do with Elijah Rodriguez, and what we

running backs coach Stan Drayton is

was great to have Andrew Beck back,

do at the center spot.”

most beneficial. There’s a reason his

as well as Reese Leitao played in

resume stands out above all others in

his first real collegiate action at 250

the ball-carrier department.

pounds had a good spring. Elijah

What’s your plan on utilizing the

Rodriguez had a good spring. Patrick

new redshirt Rule?

Vahe had his best practices since How much has (sophomore DL)

I’ve been around. There’s a lot to go

“In preliminary talks, you’re probably

Ta’Quon Graham improved in the

around.”

going to save that redshirt rule until

offseason?

the end of the season, when you start getting depleted and injuries.

“Quite a bit. Ta’Quon spent the major-

What positions are up in the air

Then you’ve got to get strategic too

ity of the spring playing nose guard

that will be battles in the fall?

because the bowl games, the playoff

because we wanted our best three

games, the conference championship

defensive linemen on the field, which

“If you’re a DB, I don’t care what

games count as well. When and how

for us was Breckyn Hager, Charles

classification you are, you better bring

you use them is going to be a chess

Omenihu, and Graham. That’s not

your ‘A’ game every practice. It’s like

match. A lot of that will be determined

where he’ll play most of the time this

Michael Huff said about their second-

in the first few weeks of training

fall, but we thought it was good for

ary back then. They had two Thorpe

camp, because again, we haven’t

a young guy to kind of get beat up a

Award winners, three 1st rounders,

seen these kids play in pads.”

little bit inside, get muscled around a little bit from centers and guards, then he can transition back out to the defensive end spot from spending a little spring inside. He did a really good job.”

Can you name one offensive player and one defensive player that really stood out, opened your eyes, and bought in this Spring?

“That’s like asking me to pick my favorite child. No, but I can give you a bunch. On defense, I can tell you Brandon Jones is a guy that sticks out on defense. Malcolm Roach played weakside LB at 270-something pounds the entire spring, and was probably the Defensive MVP of the spring. Breckyn Hager, Kris Boyd, and

Anthony Cook

Davante Davis all got better. I think

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- Tom Herman Q/A What are your expectations with freshman DeMarvion Overshown (Arp, 2018) and what do you think Coach Orlando is cooking up for him?

“I think you’ll see him start in the Lightning package as the Joker – the boundary, weakside, drop-down safety, play on the line of scrimmage but yet play in the middle of the field, play the centerfield, play a Robber position as we like to call it – and we’ll just figure the rest out as his body continues to develop.”

Did you envision D’Shawn Jamison (Houston Lamar, 2018) as a receiver when you recruited him or is this a new development?

Gary Johnson

“I think we saw him as a ‘wherever we need him kind of guy.’ Tremendous athlete, he’s shown ability in the return game with the ball in his hands in high school, and he’s going to play both sides. We’ve already updated the roster, he’s going to play on both sides. He gives us something that maybe we don’t have at (slot) position. We’ve been playing LJ and Jerrod (Heard), who are bigger guys but not quite the explosion and straight-line speed that D’Shawn has, so we’re going to see if he can help us there. And if not, we’ll continue to train him at defensive back.”

What does Gary Johnson bring

cause he goes to work everyday, he’s

conversations early in the season,

fun – always has a smile on his face –

and we were to the point where he

he doesn’t care if its 110 degrees and

was playing well, but it was more ‘you

the third hour of practice, he’s going

don’t talk to me, and I won’t talk to

to smile and be energetic, and be go-

you,’ kind of thing. His heart is about

ing as fast and as hard as he can.”

that big (Herman points to his entire chest), and he’s so proud, and he

This is portion where we segue into

loves Texas so much. So we’re play-

the Breckyn Hager Experience. He

ing Oklahoma State, and he sacks

compared Hager to the character

the quarterback, think on 3rd down,

Steve Lattimer from “The Program”,

and as he’s running off the field, I

the epitome of intensity mixed with a

gave him a little low-five as he was

side of crazy. Not only did the senior

coming off the field. Might’ve been the

Longhorn DL/OLB win the evening

first high-five I’d ever given him, and

at Big 12 Media Days, Herman went

he just stopped dead in his tracks,

into detail about their relationship and

like something out of a movie. And he

what’s to come.

looks at me and says….

to this defense, and what does he mean to this team?

“He brings speed, toughness, he will hit you and he enjoys hitting people.

It’s not something you have to convince him to do, it’s something in his DNA. And then the kids love him be-

Breckyn Hager?

BH: “Coach, I’m sorry.” (Herman says he looks on the field for a flag or late penalty)

“Still figuring it out, brother. (Hager)

TH: “Breckyn, what are you talking about?”

At what point did you figure out

was very resistant at first. Breckyn and I had a couple very intense

2018 Season Preview

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- Tom Herman Q/A body transformed the way it did.”

Whose idea was it when the 10th assistant became official and you sent Bryan Carrington, one of your big-time recruiting analysts on the road, and just the impact he’s had with recruiting and working along side Derek Chang and those guys?

Breckyn Hager

BH: “I’m sorry for being such an a-hole. I love you coach.”

TH: “Alright, Breck, I got a game to coach here, bud.” ….ever since then we’re like Bonnie and Clyde. He’s been championing the way we do things ever since. Here we are, nine months later, and he’s here representing us at Big 12 Media Days. It’s a great story. He went from being compliant – yes sir, no sir, never late – to ‘I’m just going to attack this thing.’ It was fun to watch that transformation. That is real. That’s not an act. That’s not for show. That’s the way his circuits are wired.”

Hager started his career at Texas at middle linebacker, which then he transitioned to a guy with his hand in the ground. What led you to believe that

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is where he’d succeed, and how have you seen him develop that skill to where he’s now physically prepared?

“The biggest thing was…1) when he first got here, he wasn’t heavy enough to play against an offensive tackle. 2) He could go three plays and needed to take himself out of the game. His stamina was awful. But he worked his tail off to his credit. He did have that great first step. 3) But now that first step is accompanied with tremendous leg strength and upper body strength at 255-260 pound frame with great stamina. He couldn’t survive until his

“I think it was Derek Chang’s idea.

He had asked me to hold off (hiring right away), knowing the state of Texas process of getting somebody hired and cleared and background checked, and all of that stuff would take awhile. He said hold off a little bit and we’ll put Bryan on the road.

We’ll get him into some homes and it worked out great. Bryan does a great job relating to young kids, obviously because of his age, he’s from Texas and from Houston, but he also does a very good job of developing, not just between the player and him, but the recruits and other recruits. He gets the parents and recruits together, he forms these bonds that allow these guys to have a sense of pride.”

As Herman and the Longhorns wrapped up another eventful Big 12 Media Days, it was noticeable that Herman is confident he’s got the ship headed in the right direction.

“Our theme this offseason has been two words: develop and finish,” said Herman. “I just want to let you know that we are really excited about this season. Our culture is fully ingrained, our guys are in as good of shape as I’ve ever seem them. They’re hungry to compete in the Big 12.”

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2018 Season Preview

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BIG

EXPECTATIONS

BY MIKE BLACKWELL

Patrick Vahe is big.

Big hair.

Big persona.

Seen his locker room celebration at the Cotton Bowl in 2015?

Big.

Smile?

Big.

Family? He’s one of 13 kids.

Big.

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he Texas offensive lineman roared - literally - through

His freshman start at Texas was memorable and immediate,

the doors at UT in 2015, starting the first 10 games of

and he even played on special teams in nine of his 10 games,

his career and earning freshman All-American honors

prior to injuring his knee.

while also being named to the All-Big 12 underclassmen team.

As a sophomore, he helped pull the D’onta Foreman train along for more than 2,000 yards, but though the year began

Vahe was a splashy, intense, Polynesian freshman with a

with the promising win against Notre Dame, the wins didn’t

great destiny who probably first heard about his own poten-

come at the pace he had anticipated.

tial for greatness way back when his hair was short. That would’ve been a LONG time ago.

He found himself in a malaise that had started late in his freshman year. He also wasn’t sure he truly handled himself

Flash forward to 2018, and the young comet overflowing with

as well as he should’ve, his bigness strangely overtaken by

swag and bigness finds himself on the cusp of a burnt orange

uncertainty.

farewell tour. Certainly his time at Texas was one of tumult and coaching changes, mixed with the expected disappoint-

“My mind’s been on the wrong path,” Vahe admitted. “My

ment and discovery that comes to everyone between their

effort really wasn’t there. It really wasn’t what was needed for

18th and 22nd birthdays.

the team at that moment. But I’m on a different road right now

It will be hard to imagine the Texas offensive line without

“It was just a personal problem of mine,” Vahe said. “It was

Vahe and his locks, which he’s revealed to be washed by

my decision to get back to where I needed to be.”

Panteen and conditioned by Suave.

Last year’s junior season - Tom Herman’s first at Texas - was certainly an improvement over his sophomore campaign, but still fell short of Vahe’s personal expectations.

The offense was a times abysmal, and the offensive line was not helped by a rash of injuries in front of an inexperienced pair of quarterbacks and a group of running backs that never found its way.

Big Patrick Vahe didn’t feel quite as big any more, although the season did have its share of highs.

Vahe made the Honorable Mention All-Big 12 team, started the first 11 games before getting injured at West Virginia, and returned for the win over Missouri in the Texas Bowl.

And now, 2018.

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Another new coach, Herb Hand, brings a reputation as one of the best offensive line coaches in the game to Vahe’s senior year.

The 6-3, 325-pounder who will likely play guard certainly believes Hand is the perfect addition to the end of his career.

Last year the offensive line was perhaps unanimously judged to be the most ineffective unit on the team.

Injuries and inexperience are a bad combination for an offensive line to overcome, and the Longhorns didn’t.

Enter Hand, whom Vahe says has already made a huge difference.

“Really he just gives us a confidence boost whenever it comes to any play that comes up, whether it’s pass pro or run game, especially the inside zone,” Vahe said. “He loves the inside zone and power. I think that’s the biggest thing that he gave to us as an offensive line, just the confidence and being able to trust each other a lot more just because of communication schemes and all.”

Hand has also made sure not to tip his hand or commit to who is starting where up front, a fact that Vahe shared openly at Big 12 Media Days.

“Either you know your stuff, or you’re not getting in the game,” Vahe said of Hand’s influence. “And no position is really set in stone. With Coach Hand, we’ve all basically had a clean slate. You never know who is going to play what position.

“It may seem like we know who’s going to be where, but at the same time you never know because fall camp change a lot of jobs and you really have to wait until the first game to

line of the 2018 season.

And he’s pretty certain that Hand’s arrival will be a natural fit for him in this final chapter he will soon write on the 40 Acres.

“He (Hand) has expectations and he’s willing to get it his way rather than trying to mold around it,” Vahe says. “Whatever expectation he has, he’s going to have it met. And that gives you that mindset like he’s challenging me, can I step up to the plate and actually meet that expectation and actually do what I have to do? Or just sit back and watch everybody else do it?”

For the larger-than-life Vahe, the answer is clear.

The big man is headed toward a big finish.

see who is going to start where.”

Vahe may not know where he’s going to start, but he can see clearly where his career is going to end at Texas - at the finish

Jean Delance

2018 Season Preview

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THE THREE-POINT PLAN OF HERM

Daniel Young

2018 Season Preview

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MAN’S OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHY

By Joe Cook

Dating back to his time as offensive coordinator at Ohio State (and very likely before that as well), Tom Herman has tried to boil down his decently complex offensive system into three overarching foundational points: -----GIVE THE BALL TO PLAYMAKERS -----KEEP NUMBERS EQUAL WHILE RUNNING THE BALL -----TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MATCHUPS IN THE THROW GAME

T

here are some subsections within each of these points that further explain Herman’s pro-spread philosophy. Often it seemed last season as

if there were opportunities to sacrifice progress in some of these bullet points in order to obtain some short-term successes, but Herman and staff never did it. “We don’t miss” is one of Herman’s favorite mantras toward explaining why he does things the way that he does. “We’re building a program” is another example.

Because Herman stuck to his philosophical guns, Texas’ offense can continue to adhere to this overall philosophy in 2018. The playbook and coaching staff remaining mostly static helps a lot, and that allows for the continued driving home of those three main points of the offensive philosophy rather than the players having to familiarize themselves with new ones.

As a result, the options available to live up to those three main points are clearer heading into 2018.

GET THE BALL IN THE HANDS OF OUR PLAYMAKERS At the beginning of 2017 preseason practices, Lil’Jordan Humphrey was put at boundary receiver. He ran second to Collin Johnson for several practices, but the coaches noted his elite playmaking ability.

Johnson held onto the first string boundary WR spot, but Humphrey needed to be on the field. At slot, his main competition was eventual transfer Reggie Hemphill-Mapps Humphrey became a 6-foot-5, 225 pound force. He could jump over DBs and run around LBs. When given time, he made play after play with the ball in his hand. His playmaking ability was so needed that despite his skill at boundary

2018 Season Preview

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WR, there was no way he could stay on the bench.

Lamar. He’s in the first rotation as far as punt returners go, and has worked mostly at receiver in order, like the main point, to get the ball

This is just one example of Herman making sure to get the ball in

in the hands of the playmakers.

the hands of his playmakers. Humphrey traded starts with the now graduated Armanti Foreman, but received plenty of snaps and was

Daniel Young is another example. Likely the most physical runner of

the team’s leading receiver in three games.

those currently on the roster, running between the tackles suits the Spring Westfield grad well. It’s something he’s familiar with, and with the offense’s reliance and preference to run inside zone, no one else on the current roster has the reliability, durability, and overall fit for that portion of the offense like Young does. There’s a reason he’s continuing to run with the ones despite players with more “electric” skillsets being in that same running back room.

Now that Texas is in year two of this system, there are fewer square pegs for the coaches to find a home for. Players know their respective roles, have utilized 15 bowl practices, spring ball, and the first portion of fall camp in order to get more familiar with them. Position fits are much more obvious, and the class of 2018 is evidence of this. Brennan Eagles was recruited as an X receiver, Al’vonte Woodard as a Z speedster, and Joshua Moore as a quick-twitch player at slot. Keaontay Ingram might have

Devin Duvernay

more experience running behind a zone blocking scheme than anyone on the roster, and his quick ascension up

A sub point to getting the ball in playmakers’ hands is to properly

the RB depth chart is proof of that.

utilize the available personnel. Herman was seemingly rigid in running his system, but made sure to put players in the right spot within

Players know what to do. Coaches know where players need to be.

that system.

Now, it’s about making sure those players gain yards and get in the end zone.

Take the field or Z wide receiver position. Requisite speed in order to take the top off the defense is paramount at this spot. John Burt was an easy fit, but some of the others had to find out through lack of success at another spot.

EQUATE NUMBERS IN THE RUN GAME I was wondering how to visually represent this point. Then I realized

Devin Duvernay began at slot, but while he possesses elite straight-

there’s a physical representation; Andrew Beck.

line speed, he didn’t have the fluidity like Hemphill-Mapps or Humphrey to succeed at the position. The offensive staff saw to it that

Texas struggled in this regard last season because they were often

he moved to a spot where his strengths could be amplified and his

forced to run 10 personnel because of the almost non-existent TE

weaknesses diminished.

depth. Kendall Moore performed admirably in his lone season on the 40 Acres, but admirably doesn’t always mean exceptionally, or even

Duvernay struggled in 2017, stuck behind Burt and the now gradu-

above average. It got so bad at one point that Chris Warren needed

ated Lorenzo Joe, only amassing nine receptions. With more experi-

to get involved, and saying he was upset with that move is putting it

ence working at the position, he’s now firmly solidified himself as the

lightly.

first option for that Z receiver spot.

Beck, a healthy Cade Brewer, and serviceable depth from Reese Examples here are easy to find. D’shawn Jamison is a relevant case

Leitao and Rob Cummins allows for Texas to equate numbers in the

from the 2018 class. Though part of an elite defensive back class,

run game.

Jamison was an extraordinary punt returner in 2017 for Houston

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The addendum to this philosophical point is that Herb Hand’s offensive line should never leave an unblocked defender on the line of scrimmage. Don’t miss assignments, don’t let anyone run free into the backfield, always make sure there’s a hat on a hat.

After that, it becomes a numbers game.

In all the NCAA video games, there was always a teaching point that told you to look at the safeties. If the user continually ran the ball with success, one or both computer safeties would creep down, opening up plays downfield.

If one safety creeps into the box and one stays high, the offense has equal numbers (5 OL + TE + RB or QB vs 4 on line + 2 LB + 1 S). If both safeties stay high, the offense has a one man advantage.

Sam Ehlinger

If there’s no deep safety and two have moved down, that limits a lot of what the run game can do but opens up other options. Herman’s preference is to either utilize the speed option, or to go downfield and throw past the numbers advantage.

A quarterback like Sam Ehlinger provides a unique constraint for the defense. He runs the ball with a penchant for physicality like few other FBS quarterbacks.

Shane Buechele can still effectively run the offense though he might not provide the same physicality Ehlinger does. He can steal yards when those in the box forget about him, as he did against Baylor last season for six points when several Bears were keying the RB rather than QB. He can also pull the ball and find a receiver on an RPO. The speed option is designed to make the defense run out of options to defend… the option. Taking a deep shot is a simple, throw it to the spot they left.

Last year, some of the lines Texas had to march out didn’t lead to a lot of success running the ball even when the Longhorns had a numbers advantage. Some of the pieces added and developed for this season should provide more success when there are equal numbers.

do pass, they prefer to do it out of unbalanced 3x1 or 3x2 looks in order to tilt the defense.

The pass game plays off the run game. The Longhorn aerial attack is designed to take advantage of those single high and no deep safety looks that a successful run game leads to.

This is one of the components where Texas struggled most last year.

The offensive line rarely blocked well enough to force opposing defenses into no deep looks. Teams could get away with running two deep safety looks against the Longhorns while still stuffing the run.

When the offense’s efforts proved futile on first and second downs, the passing game couldn’t succeed against looks with two deep safeties. They couldn’t create matchups against space because there was always plenty of numbers to cover that space. They couldn’t get out of two high safety looks because they weren’t running the football well.

An improved offensive line leads to an improved run game, which leads to equating numbers, which can then create matchups.

Those matchups include 6-foot-6 Collin Johnson, 6-foot-4 Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and verifiable track speed from Devin Duvernay. When

CREATE MATCHUPS IN THE THROW GAME Creating matchups is all about working the numbers and space.

Texas hopes a successful running game will force teams into single high safety or no deep safety looks. That’s when it’s time to pass.

Unlike some of the other teams in the conference and around the country, Texas uses the run to set up the pass. When the Longhorns

the Longhorn offense faces pressure, the plan is to allow those receivers to make the defense pay for sending numbers.

Those measures should lead to matchups Texas receivers can win, but there’s a reason this is the third philosophical point. An existent run game can put Texas in looks to get its playmakers in space, and unlike last year, those playmakers should have ample opportunity week in and week out.

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DAWG DAYS AT DBU by

Mike Blackwell

Some people have called Kris Boyd a dog.

In a football world that praises all dogs, and even elevates a regular dog to a Dawg, it’s the ultimate compliment.

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hen this season ends, the Texas cornerback is hoping his bite

dreams, Boyd needed someone to nurture his good and coax out his

matches his bark and is enough to gain the rapt attention of

bad. He needed guidance, maturity and tough love.

the National Football League.

And this is the part of the story where recruiting coordinator/corHis improvement at the end of last year has caused many to believe

nerback coach James Washington comes in. Tom Herman brought

he will ultimately be admitted into a school even more exclusive than

Washington with him to Austin, and his arrival came just in time for

UT: DBU.

Boyd, whose brother Demarco is also on the team.

But not yet.

After two years of swimming upstream and in various directions, Washington has given Boyd a calming presence, a leader to follow, a

Boyd, you see, has been dogged by results on the field that have

voice to hear.

fallen short of the high expectations he brought with him in 2015.

His recruitment was a bit of a roller coaster, and he was boundlessly

Boyd’s comfort level with Washington more than likely played a sub-

enthusiastic and, ummm, talkative upon his arrive at the Forty Acres.

stantial role in his decision to return to Texas for his senior year and forego entry in the NFL Draft.

He was athletic and brash and certainly mercurial on the field, where a great play made was often balanced by a great play allowed.

And now instead of people wondering when Boyd is going to live up to the noise that has surrounded him for years, folks are instead

He once re-tweeted something from the locker room. During a game.

asking if he’s got a chance to win Bronko Nagurski or Jim Thorpe awards: he’s been nominated for both.

After two scattered seasons at Texas, to become the true Dawg of his And people are now calling him something even more complimentary than Dawg; they are calling him a Shutdown Corner.

Though the accolades seem to be leaning heavily in his direction, he recognizes that to be called a member of DBU, a Shutdown Corner or especially a Dawg, he must put an exclamation point on his career in 2018.

After giving up huge receptions against Oklahoma last October, Washington and Boyd broke down his game in general - and his wandering eyes in particular - and the Gilmer native blossomed the rest of the way.

Boyd finished 2017 with 57 tackles, two interceptions and 15 passes broken up, the most by a Longhorn since 2011. He was named second-team All Big 12 for his efforts and had three solo tackles and a pass broken up in the Texas Bowl win over Missouri.

Boyd gives Washington much credit for the turnaround.

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“Probably the best thing to ever happen to me,” says Boyd of Washington’s arrival. “If you look at how I was when I was younger, with my technique, and then you look at certain games....not only me, but Davante (Davis), Holton (Hill), Josh (Thompson), you see our technique, feet, eye discipline.

“And last season; from the first six games to the last six games, it was all me and (Washington). I’ve never improved that fast in my life. But with him, it clicked. He knows what he’s talking about. He’s the man with a plan.”

It appears to be Boyd’s time to roam the secondary like a hungry wolf in winter.

“I just want to be successful in my program and leave a legacy with my teammates,” Boyd said of his decision to remain in Austin for his senior year. “I couldn’t leave without showing everybody what we’ve been pushing for and what we’ve been going through, so

there are times, like a hyper dog, you’ve got to yank on the leash

it can all pay off one day. It was pretty much for my teammates.

every now and then. You’d much rather yank on leashes than kick butts to get them in gear.”

“We had a winning season in 2017, but it wasn’t what we wanted.

I couldn’t end it like that. I’ve got to show Longhorn Nation we are

The arrival of Herman and Washington, combined with Boyd’s matu-

about to be back rolling. I came back to give it all I’ve got, and now I’ll

rity as a man and a football player, leaves him on what they all hope

get my teammates to do the same.”

is the cusp of greatness, individually and as a team.

Herman - now entering year two of his relationship with Boyd - is

Trained up, healthy and playing in what is essentially a “contract

more than a little appreciative of Boyd’s return. Locking onto the op-

year”, Boyd is ready for reality to catch up to his potential.

posing team’s best receiver will help free up defensive coordinator Todd Orlando to wreck shop in backfields, comforted by the fact that

The Dawg is hungry.

his top dawg is taking care of business in the secondary.

“It is fun,” Herman says of coaching Boyd. “The kid loves football, man. Absolutely loves football. When you win his heart, he’s as loyal as they come. I have no doubt that Kris Boyd would take a bullet for

Join the Conversation

Jason Washington, Todd Orlando, myself.

“He has bought in, jumped in with both feet. He loves football. Now,

www.insidetexas.com

2018 Season Preview

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WILL THE DEFENSE DECLINE IN 2018?

By Paul Waddlington

Poona Ford

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ill the 2018 Defense suffer without Malik Jefferson, Poona

lockdown cornerback; grabbing two interceptions in nine games

Ford, Deshon Elliott & Holton Hill? That’s the question that

before falling to old familiar demons.

preseason prognosticators, Longhorn fans, and various media are wrestling with right now.

THE DEPARTED

There’s no question that these players returning (Poona was a senior) would make the defense better. In fact, I believe that Texas would field a Top 5 or 10 national defense if Hill, Jefferson and Elliott were back.

Poona Ford was named the Big 12’s Defensive Lineman of the Year. During Big 12 media days, Tom Herman stated he’d only been

But that’s not the relevant issue, is it? The very different question of

around three truly disruptive nose tackles in his coaching career:

whether these players would improve the 2018 defense and whether

Casey Hampton, Ed Oliver, and...Poona Ford. That’s rarefied air.

their production can be replaced is being conflated in discussions and in the framing of the issue. Nor is the relevant question whether

Malik Jefferson led the 2018 Longhorns in tackles (110) and was a

they can be perfectly individually replaced man for man. Comparing

well-deserved 1st Team All Big 12 linebacker; fulfilling the five star

Brandon Jones to Deshon Elliott isn’t that useful. The question is

potential of his recruiting rankings.

whether Texas can field a comparable or better defensive product in total.

First year safety starter Deshon Elliott was 2nd on the team in tackles, grabbed 6 interceptions, forced three fumbles and scored twice

Texas fans, mired in famine thinking, have been trained over the

from his safety position. There wasn’t a more productive player on

last few years that players are more likely to stagnate or remain the

the Longhorn roster.

same, as to grow and improve. How many of the four outstanding departed players were playing good football for Texas before this

Finally, Holton Hill played the best football of his career as UT’s #1

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staff’s arrival?

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Malik Jefferson was a fan site target who shined only in brief

Do we believe that Malcolm Roach is already maximized physically,

glimpses, evidenced little physicality, and a lot of confusion between

mentally, in the scheme? Are we to believe the dominant play from

the tackles. Poona Ford was adequate, and misused - just a guy.

Gary Johnson that closed out the last eight games of the season is

Deshon Elliott rode the pine, waiting his turn. Holton Hill was erratic,

now on a downslope? Kris Boyd? Davante Davis? PJ Locke? Bran-

repeatedly benched, and started more games as a freshman than

don Jones? Anthony Wheeler? They’ll all just be the same player

a sophomore. He lost his cornerback job to John Bonney, among

they’ve always been? Even if only two of those five improve, the

others.

defense gets better.

So let’s be candid about what these players were before Herman’s

Does a second year in Todd Orlando’s system have benefits for co-

regime. Did they develop because of simple maturity, agnostic to

hesion and digesting the complexity of a defense that does a hell of a

the coaching staff? They would have progressed under anyone into

lot more than just play quarters every down?

breakout years?

Last year, the weakness of UT’s defense was primarily mental and I don’t buy that. And even if I did, then it points to a similar random

assignment based - on display against Maryland, Kansas State and

breakouts on this team, right?

It’s clear to me that all of them got much more fit (Poona), stronger (Malik’s lower body & back), more physical (Holton and Malik evidenced a totally different mentality), much better position and unit coaching (assess Jefferson’s run recognition, look at the high level of tackling from all), and all thrived playing in a better scheme where their roles were clear and their talents amplified.

Texas had been playing Poona Ford as a 325 pound block-catching 2 technique, for God’s sakes. The new staff created a 310 pound burrowing penetrator nose tackle.

Deshon Elliott played terrific football,

Malik Jefferson

but a lot of his biggest plays were creations of the defense. And cornerback coach Jason Washington

one crippling play against OU. Will another year help? How did the

clearly got into Holton Hill’s head in a good way - at least on the field.

hobbled defense play without all of those players in the bowl game

DECLINE?

with a little bit of time to get their act together? The bowl was a nice little control in our experiment.

Those players are gone and won’t be individually replaced. But they

Does the injection of special 2018 recruiting class defenders on

will be replaced by the sum total of a defensive unit.

the DL and at DB raise the depth and competitive pressure of the defense or lower it? Does another year of useful S&C yield benefits

It’s reasonable to assume that Chris Nelson or Ta’quon Graham

across the entire roster? How about another spring and fall camp?

won’t be quite as disruptive as Poona, but each has his strengths that can be employed. It’s actually unreasonable to think that Charles

Does incremental growth across several players make up for a loss

Omenihu and Breckyn Hager won’t replace or exceed last year’s total

of star power? Aren’t new stars waiting to be born?

defensive line pressure, disruption and stuff statistics with big senior years.

2018 Season Preview

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2018

phot os by

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Will G a

llag

her inside texas

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TEXAS LONGHORNS

BY ERIC NAHLIN

2018 Season Preview

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OFFENSIVE BACKFIELD | QUARTERBACK

Sam Ehlinger

Daniel Young

Given the scheme, and Sam Ehlinger’s resemblance to Larry Csonka when carrying the ball, it’s fitting to lump quarterbacks and running backs into the same preview. We’re all well aware of Tom Herman’s fondness for gaining the numbers advantage in the run game. That’s the primary function for his usage of the tight end, after all. It’s also why Herman will always recruit quarterbacks who at a bare minimum force the defense to account for them on the ground.

A misconception of many fans is a quarterback has to be an excellent athlete to be an efficient runner. A fan base spoiled by Vince Young may have reason to think that, but we also saw Colt McCoy, Tyrone Swoopes, and on one famous run worthy of rhythm gymnastics gold, Case McCoy, run effectively.

Ehlinger is a better runner than each of them, even Swoopes, thanks to Ehlinger’s combination of initial quickness and decisiveness. With Ehlinger’s tenacious play style, he has a duty cycle that must be taken into account. The more a machine is worked, the shorter its lifespan. Last season #11 worked incredibly hard which led to a duty cycle of 6/12. Some of that is scheme and need in ‘gotta have it moments’, but much of it is hardwired into his circuitry.

It’ll be much easier to get the offensive line to play adequately than it will be to re-wire Ehlinger, and that’s a big reason why the offensive line is the key to the season. Assuming the offensive line is league average, the offensive brain-trust can then rely on the running backs to carry most of the load.

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

JR | QB Shane Buechele, #7, 6-1, 210

on 7 was solid and his understanding of the playbook is coming right

Past: UT needed a high floor player who would be mentally ready

along. Future: It’s going to be easy for Herman to frame an offense

to see the field early and that’s what Buechele was. Present: Due

around him, but assuming Ehlinger keeps his Bull Hurley grip on the

to physical limitations his ceiling at quarterback is more suitable

job, by the time Rising is truly in line to compete he’ll still have to win

headroom for pygymies, but give him a quality supporting cast and

the job over others. In a scenario where Ehlinger has a poor or injury-

system and now you’re exploring his ability to process, and also the

filled season, Rising will be competing to start next spring.

limitations of the playbook and talent of those around him. He hasn’t had the necessary support system, and his lack of durability and pocket presence has done him no favors. Future: You can win some big games with Buechele, and with Ehlinger’s own durability concerns we’ll probably see that in the next year or two. Give him a clean pocket or a quick read and he can make some beautiful passes. He can also steal some free yards in the run game if need be. This Texas team can still win 9 games with Buechele starting half the season.

SO | QB Sam Ehlinger, #11, 6-3, 235 Past: With a gunslinger mentality and good athleticism he could beat upper-echelon teams with his head, heart, arm, or legs. On close inspection, it was pretty clear each trait would transfer to college.

Including the gunslinger part, both positively and negatively. Present: Gunslinger’s are just as likely to get you into trouble as out of. Jake Plummer throws two fourth quarter touchdowns to bring Denver back! After throwing two pick sixes in the first half. This stems from confidence in one’s ability, as well as hyper-competitiveness to refuse to not just give up on a game, but on a single play. Often this mentality leads to trying to do too much resulting in high beta play. The problem then occurs if you try to attach a governor to the operating system. At that point you lose what makes them so effective, and

Cameron Rising

sometimes great. It’s a balancing act and it becomes incumbent on the player to understand when to cut his losses -- or even his gains -- short. It’s okay to slide past the sticks and it’s okay to throw the ball away. Future: This isn’t the easiest playbook to master. At times

FR | QB Casey Thompson, #8, 6-1, 190

when we urged Ehlinger to just make the easy read he didn’t see

Past: Rising was committed to OU. Thompson’s dad, Charles, played

it because his head was swimming. I expect we’ll see that change

for OU. Lincoln Riley didn’t hard press Casey, probably because as a

quite a bit. Per sources Ehlinger is more fluent in the playbook, and

very good runner he’s on the other end of the quarterback scale from

now just needs quality reps to braid the technical, mental, and timing

Rising. Present: I think it’s unfair to consider Thompson just a run-

components of the position. Ehlinger having a good season comes

ner, though he has been inconsistent at times as a passer. Still, he

down to three very basic factors: stay healthy, minimize turnovers,

threw some absolute dimes in his limited snaps in the spring game.

make better reads. His natural talent as well as his feel for the game

He’s easily the best athlete at the position, so again, it’ll be incredibly

will take care of the rest. I still believe he’s a multiplier.

easy for Herman to tweak his offense in his favor. Future: Herman’s system requires engagement and preparedness from every quarter-

This is where I reiterate that Sam could stand to play more like

back on the roster. Even if Rising wins the job one day, which I think

Shane and vice versa.

is premature to assume, Thompson would still need to be ready on a play-to-play basis just like Buechele this season.

FR | QB Cameron Rising, #3, 6-2, 230 Past: Pegged to the pro-style side of Herman’s quarterback scale,

HOW IT SHAKES OUT

but still with good enough athleticism to punish defenses with his legs. He’s about as good of a pure thrower of the ball as you’ll find.

Hopefully Ehlinger and Buechele are the only quarterbacks Texas

Present: After enrolling early he had experienced the expected

fans see this season, unless Texas is up big on opponents late in the

bumps and bruises over the spring, though he did finish strongly

season, which is possible given the late schedule. If for some reason

as evidenced by his play in the spring scrimmage. He also demon-

Herman needed to play QB3, Rising would likely get the nod at this

strated the type unexpected athleticism that will take unsuspecting

point.

defenders for some mustache rides. His accuracy during summer 7

2018 Season Preview

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OFFENSIVE BACKFIELD | RUNNING BACK

RB Coach Stan Drayton

Toneil Carter

Texas likely doesn’t have a special back on the roster, but it does have solid individual talent that could emerge as a complementary and productive platoon. If the line is average and the scheming and play-calling matches personnel strengths against defensive weaknesses, we’re going to see a much different offense this year.

SR | RB Tre Watson, #5, 5-11, 195

JR | RB Kyle Porter, #21, 5-11, 215

Past: Highly decorated running back out of Corona, California.

Past: Ran through lanes as wide as I-10 for powerhouse Katy on his

Present: Arrived at Texas as a graduate transfer from Cal. Watson

way to four state championship appearances and two wins

wasn’t a star at Cal, but he was productive and versatile. Future: Ev-

Present: Reliable player who is only durable because he’s tough.

ery time he scores this year, UT’s beer sponsor should offer specials

He’s proficient in the secondary demands of the position though he

in homage to his hometown. Watson’s versatility is his best asset. He

offers little burst or bounce in the running game. Future: I could see

could serve as a returner, an option out of the backfield, or a runner

a clearly defined, though narrow role where he either pass blocks,

on standard downs. You can even motion him out to the slot. Texas

lead blocks, or leaks out to the flat as a receiver. In a game where

should never suffer from tired legs at the position and I’m intrigued to

small sacrificial plays lead to much bigger ones, Porter has value.

see how they integrate Watson into the rotation.

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

JR | RB Kirk Johnson, #28, 6-0, 220

ness. His vision sets the course, the other traits help get him there.

Past: The son of Longhorn great Johnnie Johnson had his choice

For a taller back he has uncanny lateral agility. This allows him to

of suitors after a healthy senior season. By then it was far too late,

rarely suffer negative plays. If you break out the forensic tools and

Texas had his commitment. Present: Because he hasn’t played

analyze hard enough, one can maybe quibble with his long-speed,

much due to injuries, fans don’t really know what they’re missing. He

but I don’t yet find the evidence conclusive. Future: Despite having

showed that brilliant flash versus Texas Tech in 2015 but has been

capable bodies ahead of him, Ingram should see the field as soon

missing since. He started to turn heads again in a brief return to the

as he proves to the staff he can protect the ball, that he’s mentally

team that led one source to say, “this is what you expect when you

prepared, and that he’s assignment sound.

talk about a Texas running back,” but then he was lost again. Future: He has special traits but as the saying goes, the best ability is avail-

HOW IT SHAKES OUT

ability. I love the fact he keeps sticking with it and hope it works out for him. If it works out for him, it will work out for the rest of the

Understand the staff is big on trust. Like with a female, it’s hard to

program because he’s a talent.

earn and easy to lose. They don’t care if you’ve “been killing it in rehab,” they want to see it for themselves for an extended period

JR | RB Tristian Houston, #41, 5-11, 215

of time. Don’t smoke drop the rock. Protect the ball, be assignment

Past: Solid, but unspectacular prospect out of North Shore. Looked

sound, understand where the gap is supposed to be, etc. After that’s

to have some outside zone traits which the staff at the time preferred.

established it’s time to show your talent.

Present: He’s made two more appearances than fellow #41, Hank Coutoumanos. If those two are on the field at the same time, I’m

I want everybody who read that section to print it out, sign that you

assuming the band is on the field too. You know I have zilch to write

understand it in the presence of a public notary, and send it to Inside

when I’m being nice to @HornedBear. Future: Depth and maybe

Texas c/o Clendon Ross.

special teams.

Daniel Young is the workhorse. Toneil Carter is the quarterhorse. Tre SO | RB Daniel Young, #32, 6-0, 225

Watson’s versatility allows the staff to tinker with him in any situation,

Past: Shared the backfield at Westfield for most of his career, limiting

but they must discover where his value add lies. Porter should have

his production and Hudl footage. Showed good traits for an interior

a narrow, though important role. Ingram is the outlier. If he wins the

runner who could also bounce outside. Present: When factoring

staff’s trust, he’ll earn the chance to prove what I believe to be true --

for offensive line play he was productive as a freshman and also

he has the best overall composite of traits at the position.

showed good hands as a receiver. He’s proven more reliable than Toneil Carter, though he may not be as talented. Future: He’s atop

It isn’t a sexy collection of talent but there are enough options in the

the depth chart as numerous players jockey for carries. He’s a solid

garage to keep miles low and improve the duty cycle.

blend of traits the staff likes to utilize and given their trust in him, he’ll have the opportunity to steal back some of those lost highlights in high school.

SO | RB Toneil Carter, #30, 5-11, 210 Past: When Georgia said he couldn’t enroll early Carter explored other avenues. This led the explosive runner to Texas. Present: His talent will never be in question, but he’s going to have to compete as consistently hard as Young to earn them. We all saw burst and good hands last year and there’s more where that came from. Future: It’s not at all inconceivable that Carter is the most productive running back on the team this year. It also wouldn’t surprise if his season went in the opposite direction. He’s the most explosive runner on the roster so he has the potential to give the offense some much needed dynamism.

FR | RB Keaontay Ingram, #26, 6-0, 205 Past: He’s a good running back in any year but the cycle being down really narrowed the efforts of schools to land him. Texas won this in a way that represents Ingram’s high school career -- by running away from the competition. Present: Excellent blend of the mandatory skills required to be great: feet, balance, vision, and initial quick-

Keaontay Ingram

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OFFENSIVE LINE

OL Coach Herb Hand

Patrick Vahe

The most important unit on the team, and definitely the most important heading into the season is the offensive line.

A year ago we were already wondering what Texas would do at left tackle with Connor Williams certain to depart after the 2017 season. With the addition of Rice graduate transfer Calvin Anderson, Tom Herman and Herb Hand filled that void as capably as the situation allowed. The question of left tackle is now largely answered and play will almost assuredly be drastically improved over last season but other questions have emerged. Fortunately there are some positive answers.

Injuries were the key ingredient to the s*** sandwich the team was forced to eat last season. Coordination and coaching weren’t great, more the wilted lettuce and green tomatoes, but not the meat of the problems. Injuries are a crap shoot year in and year out.

Predicting health is impossible though because fatigue often plays a role in injuries. It is encouraging the that the team is in good shape. Coordination is very likely upgraded with the addition of Herb Hand. He’ll make the call on blocking schemes, and since he’ll be the ones teaching scheme and technique coaching is also upgraded.

There are a couple more reasons to feel optimistic about improved line play: more experience at quarterback and significantly upgraded play at a tight end position that often serves as a ‘help’ offensive lineman.

SR | Patrick Vahe, #77, 6-3, 325

career starts between them should foster a good relationship sooner

Past: A highly sought after interior o-lineman, Vahe married transfer-

rather than later. Texas has a pretty athletic left side for Herb Hand to

able collegiate traits with stellar production in a fantastic high school

get on the move.

career. Present: Has had a bit of an up and down career at Texas, though it’s hard not to feel sympathetic for him given all the offensive

SR | Calvin Anderson, #66, 6-5, 300

line coaching shake-ups (fourth o-line coach in four years!) he’s

Past: Very lightly recruited out of Westlake high school due to lack

endured. Future: Vahe has run the gamut on level of play at Texas

of size. Present: Statistically one of the best returning left tackles in

but is poised for a good finale. Though he and Calvin Anderson won’t

the country. Plenty of size, athleticism, and experience with 36 career

have much time to develop chemistry together, having nearly 70

starts. Future: Anderson is assuredly going to win his spot on the line

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

but he’s going to face a dramatic increase in competition. Fortunately

center (where he played in the Army All-American game) or guard. I

Texas has the defensive ends to acclimate him quickly. When asked

compared him to Chris Hall in his ability to play tackle out of neces-

how good Anderson was, Herman somewhat dismissively asked,

sity but I felt he would be an interior player on a good line. Present:

“did you see his film at Rice?” What’s important is Anderson will be

Herman begrudgingly pulled Kerstetter’s red-shirt early last season

a dramatic upgrade over anyone else on the roster and he improves

and started him 10 games at right tackle. To be entirely expected

the overall potential of the unit/offense, but he may have his share of

the season was a mixed bag with plenty of struggles, but on balance

struggles at times. No matter, he’s very likely a gift from football gods

Kerstetter battled and showed promise. Future: Being thrown to the

who took a little too much the year prior.

wolves undoubtedly prepared him for this season in ways a red-shirt would not have. If he makes the natural improvement players make

RS/SR | Elijah Rodriguez, #72, 6-5, 305

from their first year to second he’s going to be perfectly adequate this

Past: Was a late-bloomer and a late addition to the class of 2014.

season and will have the look of a permanent fixture at right tackle.

Present: Missed every snap of the season save the bowl game against Missouri in which he started at left tackle (does anything else

RS/SO | Tope Imade, #67, 6-5, 330

underline the importance of adding Anderson than this?). The offense

Past: Big, powerful guard with decent feet that some felt was a reach

looked more cohesive at times when he was on the field than it did

for Joe Wickline. Not the most athletic lineman you’ll find but I liked

for long stretches of the season, though E-Rod isn’t the long-term fix

him. Present: First off the bus. He has yet to see the field though that

at the position. Future: E-Rod’s versatility to play any position should

shouldn’t be considered a negative. Switching to defensive tackle for

be applauded, however, UT’s best line may have him coming off the

a time did his offensive line development no favors but he’s back on

bench as the 6th man. He’ll be penciled in as 1st team right guard but he’ll have competition.

JR | Denzel Okafor, #78, 6-4, 305 Past: Okafor profiled as an underrated but exciting guard/tackle with advanced technical ability. Present: The problem with poor depth extends beyond the obvious of forcing players to see the field before they’re ready. If depth is really bad, players are needed at a position they’re unfit for. Okafor should have red-shirted but didn’t. He should have been a guard, but he was needed at right tackle. Last year he was needed at left tackle meaning he was well out of position. In a healthy program this year would be our first look at him and there would be a measure of excitement to see him take the field. He spent the spring at left tackle where he still struggled. Because he’s a guard. Future: I would try to play him in no more than four games this year and give him the red-shirt he deserves. If the staff can trust Sam Cosmi as the third tackle, Okafor would then be able to compete at his more natural position. His power is unquestionable (650 squat) and he’s a plus athlete for guard. Don’t give up on him yet.

JR | Zach Shackelford, #56, 6-4, 305

Zach Shackelford

Past: Texas desperately needed a center prospect and was able to flip Shackelford by telling the Belton product, “if you just commit here,

the right side of the ball. Sidenote: He was the unofficial lead recruiter

you can save yourself a drive to Manhattan, Kansas.”

on high four-star Tyler Johnson. Future: He’s known for being ag-

Present: Predictably Shackelford became an immediate starter and

gressive and powerful off the ball which lends itself to Herb Hand’s

has remained a constant at center when healthy. He has often dealt

favorite play -- inside zone. I think he’s on a fine timeline to compete

with ankle injuries that certainly don’t help when trying to anchor. The

for what might be two open guard spots in 2019. Hopefully Texas

biggest negative of Shackelford thus far has been his issues snap-

fans get used to forgetting about offensive line recruits and the staff

ping. Future: Texas would like to find competition for him but the staff

reaches the point where it’s replacing grown men with grown men.

has been busy addressing more pressing issues. Shackelford is a good bet to start with E-Rod serving as his primary back-up.

SO | Derek Kerstetter, #68, 6-6, 305

RS/SO | Patrick Hudson, #73, 6-5, 330 Past: Hudson was one of the top recruits in the nation for the class of 2016 but I urged patience because he was on a long timeline.

Past: I don’t see how he’s 6-6 but I haven’t stood next to him in

Present: First off the bus Part II. He’s only seen a handful of snaps

a year and a half. Coming out of high school I felt his ceiling was

but his power and athleticism are evident. An unfortunate injury early

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

last season robbed him of important development. Future: The future

senior film being good. Present: The old adage ‘you’re a tackle until

is still as bright as it was when he was mauling poor kids in Silsbee.

you’re not’ applies here. I’ve always been a fan of ‘maybe tackles’

He still has technical aspects to iron out but his play-strength is

because with the right build and temperament they have the chance

Bunyan-esque and his athleticism can mitigate technical shortcom-

to be a really good guard. Future: We know the staff prefers length

ings somewhat. He should surface as Rodriguez’s primary competi-

at guard and Ghrimai has that, but it’s still too early to know what his

tion at right guard. Hope for a healthy, productive camp.

ultimate position will be. These next two years are important for any young offensive linemen. Embrace the grind and keep chopping at

RS/SO | JP Urquidez, #71, 6-6, 295 Past: Like Hudson, Urquidez originally signed with Baylor before

the depth chart.

being let out of his LOI. Prior to that he was on the Texas radar for

FR | Christian Jones, #70, 6-5, 305

years. Present: He’s currently listed at second team right tackle

Past: Only started playing football as a junior and because of that

but that doesn’t mean he’s Kerstetter’s direct replacement. Future:

he largely depended on just running around and doing football-type

Like Hudson I felt Urquidez would require time to develop. Let the

things like running into people. It was pretty humorous to watch, but

coaches earn their money and check back in a year.

in between collisions it became clear he had a lot of unteachable

RS/FR | Sam Cosmi, #52, 6-5, 295

traits. Present: His developmental curve makes Patrick Hudson seem like a day-one starter, but the staff took him knowing this full

Past: Originally committed to this staff when it was at Houston. I’d

well. Future: No clue and I could even see him ending up on the

heard they were very high on him and he’d be a guy they wanted to

defensive line if offensive line development is too long a row to hoe.

bring to Texas. A red-shirt year later and he’s competing. Present: Herman was very tempted to play Cosmi in the chaos of last year but

HOW IT SHAKES OUT

made the correct decision to preserve the red-shirt. Internally expectations are high for Cosmi but he didn’t have as good of a spring as

Anderson-Vahe-Shackelford-Rodriguez-Kerstetter

many had hoped. I’m unconcerned, Cosmi can move his feet in pass protection and play with a flat back in the run game. Future: He’s

From left to right this the current most likely starting group for Mary-

easily the most likely to start at left tackle in 2019, but first he needs

land. If a change is made, I’d have Hudson in place of E-Rod as the

to prove to the staff he’s the third best tackle on the team.

most likely.

FR | Junior Angilau, #75, 6-5, 300

Don’t be surprised if after the very first practice you hear of Okafor or

Past: A dirt moving Tonka truck in the ground game, the only ques-

Cosmi ahead of Anderson. The coaches might prefer to not jusvgive

tion was if that truck could go in reverse. There was very little footage

the job to Calvin. It will largely be meaningless so don’t hyperventilate

of him in pass protection. Who cares, he obviously has the athleti-

on the internet.

cism to learn. Present: Probably has the athleticism and length for tackle but let’s not overthink it, if you want to run the ball up the

Second team in practice will probably look like this:

middle you need guys like Angilau inside. Plus he wouldn’t have to be

Cosmi-Imade-Rodriguez-Hudson-Okafor

as refined in pass protection. Future: I suspect we’ll see him within the four allowed appearances and then he’ll be competing to start at

Kerstetter and Rodriguez will likely both rep center, but if Shackelford

guard in 2019. Eventually he’ll become a dirt burglar moving Tonga

is hurt it’s easier to move E-Rod from guard and insert Hudson than

truck.

Kerstetter from right tackle and insert Okafor.

FR | Reese Moore, #76, 6-6, 295

Over the course of the season I expect many different guys will work

Past: Known for being an exceptional athlete (good basketball

at center to build depth.

player) for the position, though because he played tight end he was considered a pretty significant project. I’ll quibble with that a bit

As I’ve stated, depth charts on the offensive line are meaningless.

because most of his time at tight end was spent as a blocker. Still,

Real depth materializes in who the 6th, 7th, and 8th offensive line-

playing tight end against poor competition demands some patience.

man, or the 3rd guard and 3rd tackle.

Present: He’ll red-shirt and learn from Herb Hand and Calvin Anderson. He’ll probably learn from Breckyn Hager and Charles Omenihu

Early on I could see Okafor as the 6th lineman because he can play

too. Future: I see the makings of a great left tackle but it’s up to him

tackle or guard. He’ll be pushed at guard by Hudson and tackle by

to take to coaching, take to the weight room, and to put it all together.

Cosmi, however.

FR | Rafiti Ghirmai, #74, 6-5, 300

With a new coach, the addition of Calvin Anderson, the return of

Past: Texas applied consistent recruiting pressure to land the tackle/

Rodriguez and Hudson, and Kerstetter and Okafor’s versatility, this

guard prospect. I think he ended up being under-appreciated with his

line could conceivably look different as camp wears on.

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TIGHT END

Andrew Beck

In the last decade or so the tight end position has infringed on the domain of wide receivers. Especially in the NFL, it has become a glamour position that prizes athleticism over grunt work. But for Tom Herman’s offense, glamour is in the grunt work that helps the offense operate as intended. He’ll take any and all modern day mutants at the position, but they must possess the willingness to aid in the running game first and foremost.

It’s easy to appreciate the individual talent of a wide receiver who makes a big play but it’s harder to understand the sequence of plays that preceded it that allowed it to work. The game moves fast and the game within the game moves faster. Defenses have to adjust to stop what’s working, and offenses have to scrap what isn’t.

Texas didn’t scrap what wasn’t working last year because Herman, like most coaches, is rigid to his philosophy. We saw his intent to use the tight end position but it’s harder to see what might have been had the position not been neutered by injuries and lack of talent. That is, if you don’t watch a lot of football.

What some would describe as stubborn or lacking creativity, Herman would call being patient and program building. It certainly isn’t excuse making to lament the lack of tight ends. If sticking with his preferred offense despite lack of options at a key position doesn’t underline his intent to use the position, perhaps adding four signees and two commitments in less than two years does.

While Texas continues to search for mutants at the position (it may have one in Brayden Liebrock), it will happily go into the season with a complement of grunts who possess just enough athleticism to unlock the position and in the process help unlock the offense.

TE SR Andrew Beck, #47, 6-3, 255

starts, though his play has been inconsistent at times. Future: This

Past: Played both linebacker and tight end for an excellent Tampa

offense couldn’t be a better fit. He’s versed in lining up attached and

Plant program. Offensive and defensive staff members at the time

serving as a combo blocker, but he’s also been effective as a piece

debated over which side of the ball he should play. Showed good

that moves around and lead blocks similar to an H-back. There’s a

fluidity and a willingness to mix it up. Present: Upon arrival it didn’t

real chance he becomes an unsung hero this season assuming he

take him long to find his home on offense. He’s made a number of

stays healthy.

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

Something you likely won’t see again is a three year separation on

know the staff will flex the position out -- often so it can motion it back

the roster at a position.

into the formation to block. If Leitao can become a credible blocker it will create opportunities for him in the passing game. It’s imperative

TE | SO Cade Brewer, #80, 6-3, 250

he continues to improve as a blocker. He’s currently behind in that

Past: Known more as a dangerous and highly productive receiving

regard, though he is getting better.

weapon than blocker at Lake Travis. Served an integral part in the overall scheme. Present: He impressed with his football mentality

TE | FR Rob Cummins, #89, 6-5, 260

upon arrival. He quickly dispelled any notion that he was simply an

Past: After a year in Austin the artist formerly known as Max more closely identifies as a Rob. He arrived at Texas as a very intriguing jumbo athlete who moved well and played with a chip. Present: He switched from defensive end to tight end based on program need more so than it being his ideal fit. Future: He lacks fluidity to be a dangerous receiver but his aggression should play well as a blocker.

Based on his frame I don’t think he’ll grow into an offensive tackle, though perhaps he can become a pseudo-tackle in jumbo sets.

WR/TE | FR Malcolm Epps, #85, 6-5, 230 Past: The basketball type of athlete many covet who played flexed out. Showed very interesting traits on defense as a senior that should crossover to offense. Present: With XWR being thin and Epps not ready to contribute inline, the staff has him working in his familiar role. He’s a physical mismatch for defensive backs with a huge catch radius. He’s the type that is often open despite being covered well.

Future: It’s hard to foresee his time at wide receiver not being a pit stop on the way to tight end, mainly because it’s hard to foresee his time at 230 pounds not being a pit stop on the way to 250. However, at this point he’s largely a complete unknown as a blocker.

HOW IT SHAKES OUT Cade Brewer

Beck and Brewer are somewhat redundant as players and in this case that’s optimal. The offense should work equally well regardless of who is in, and because of their versatility they’ll complement each

undersized receiving threat. His play in camp bled into the season

other in 12 personnel.

as he gave the position a spark in Beck’s absence. He never lacked effort as a blocker, though lack of size and strength limited his effec-

These guys, along with Sam Ehlinger running the ball, really allow

tiveness somewhat. When he went down with a knee injury late in the

you to not just put numbers in your favor but create confusion for the

season Texas was down to graduate transfer Kendall Moore. Future:

defense while doing it.

He’s similar to Beck in his utility as a blocker but is a better receiver and runner in the open field. The big question is how will he play in

Leitao should get his opportunities as well and could become a

his return? Lower body strength is said to have not suffered from the

primary beneficiary of Beck’s and Brewer’s efficacy as blockers as he

injury, though we hear he’s moving good but not quite on the same

provides the same “look” they do but a different athletic dimension to

level as pre-injury. Some of that is likely due to added weight. Brewer

sneak into routes.

has the same chance Beck does to become an unsung hero.

Cummins will likely be depth used primarily in short yardage sce-

TE | FR Reese Leitao, #81, 6-3, 250

narios.

Past: Was known for being a credible two-way player and model citizen until some breaking bad bad breaks he created for himself. Pres-

Epps seems like a four-game red-shirt candidate assuming health at

ent: He red-shirted but nearly played last season out of need. By the

tight end and wide receiver.

time he was ready to see the field the staff decided to play the long game and not burn a year of eligibility. Future: He’ll be the third tight end but has higher athletic potential than either Beck or Brewer. We

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WIDE RECEIVER

Collin Johnson

If equating building a football team to building a car, a great group of wide receivers would be aftermarket wheels and performance tires. The coaching staff would be navigation, electronics, sensors, and in the case of Will Muschamp, the fuses. The offensive line would be the engine; the quarterback the drivetrain. Etcetera.

The point being, it doesn’t matter if your wheels and tires are nice if the rest of the car is broken down on the side of the road or driven into the ditch.

For 2018 Texas doesn’t have a $10,000 set of wheels, but these days many cars come equipped with upgraded stock wheels and tires that add a little flash to the entire package. That’s how Texas is rolling into the upcoming season.

If the rest of the offense is operating to specs, the staff should get a lot of miles out of the grouping.

Texas only has 11 players at the position, and only five have caught a pass in college, but assuming no major injuries, that shouldn’t matter. There’s a good overlap between talent and fit with what they do have.

ZWR | SR Jerrod Heard, #13, 6-2, 205 Past: Extremely athletic dual-threat quarterback with multiple state

dysfunction. Future: He worked both inside and outside in his time at Texas. For this season he projects to the outside Z receiver, though

championship wins at Denton Guyer. I, along with everyone else,

he’ll be battling with John Burt for second team snaps behind Devin

over-estimated his ability as a passer, though I did raise questions.

Duvernay.

Present: Those issues as a passer became glaringly obvious the minute Heard hit the field. His athleticism was equally obvious. The

ZWR | SR John Burt, #1, 6-3, 195

second Charlie Strong decided to go with the Art Briles system,

Past: Despite hailing from Florida, Burt had family ties to UT that

Heard’s time at quarterback was done due to limitations in the pass-

Charlie Strong worked in his favor. Burt was a two-sport star, also

ing game. As a receiver he’s flashed the athleticism we know he has,

excelling on the track. His senior tape was excellent, and offered

but he’s been inconsistent at receiver, in part due to overall offensive

hope for a very bright future. Present: His first year in college was an

2018 Season Preview

39

2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

extension of his time in high school. He looked to be a budding star

see many more games like his dominant performance in LA last year.

despite UT’s woeful 2015 offense. As we’ve learned countless times

I’m predicting you will.

in sports, the mental aspect can have as much of a negative impact as positive. After experiencing drops, Burt lost his confidence and his

HWR | JR Lil’Jordan Humphrey, #84, 6-4, 225

production declined. The 2016 offense was tailor-made for his down-

Past: Paradoxically, he was one of the easier yet more difficult

field game but he only accounted for 18 receptions and 201 yards,

projections you’ll come across. He was obviously a big time talent,

down from 28 and 457 the year prior. Last season was yet another

thanks to his blend of size, change of direction, and football disposi-

decline for Burt, though had Texas pulled out the Oklahoma State

tion, but it was tough to know at what position he’d excel because of

game his 90-yard reception would have been one for the ages. The

his frame. Present: With qualities that translate to outside receiver,

physical talent is there. Future: Z receiver is its own island on the

inside receiver, flexed tight end, and running back, he’s even more

field and also within the program. It’s inhabited by talented, explosive,

uncommon than Johnson. The staff is on the record as saying play-

yet under-performing athletes. For the first time in some time, the

ers had to prove what they could do on the field before the staff took

position should be set up to benefit from all the parts around it. That

the time to build schemes around a player. Last year, LJH began to

could mean the wealth is spread among the three options, or that one

prove what he could do, and you saw his role expand. Future: It will

player will capitalize. Most likely to succeed at this position is Devin

continue to expand, and his versatility will go a long way towards this

Duvernay, but John Burt’s raw talent is undeniable.

offense creating its passing identity. The staff should be successful in creating favorable match-ups and with his size and ability to separate he should be easy for the quarterback to target. If he takes off this year like I expect, enjoy him while you can.

ZWR | JR Devin Duvernay, #6, 5-11, 210 Past: “Devin the Duve” was a big play and dynamic threat with elite track speed. Very highly rated, he originally signed with Baylor before landing at Texas amidst scandal in Waco. Present: Has shown to be faster than quick when in football it’s more beneficial to be quicker than fast. He’s also a bit tight in his hips which necessitated his move outside. That said, he’s shown the ability to get deep if able to build up speed or use his considerable strength off the line to create separation from cornerbacks. Future: Duvernay is a smart route runner. If Texas can combine that attribute with opportunities created by the running game or other receivers commanding extra attention, he could have his breakout year. A successful season won’t be determined by number of catches or by converting first downs, it will be measured by big plays. He’ll be targeted the least of the starting receivers by a wide margin but that could play into the savvy receiver’s favor.

WR | FR Jordan Pouncey, #86, 6-1, 205 Past: Pouncey was a transition class addition for Herman and a win over Notre Dame. He displayed good initial quickness and change of direction and profited to either side of the ball. Present: He red-shirtJohn Burt

XWR | JR Collin Johnson, #9, 6-6, 220

ed but was a coaching favorite for his effort and reliability in practice.

Not known as an explosive athlete, he’s a bit more in the Lorenzo Joe mold. He’ll make the smart play and help move the sticks. Future: For this next year Pouncey will have to work to see the field but he

Past: His game was characterized by the same traits as it is now,

can play inside or outside and if he blocks like Joe did that will help

absurd combination of size, catch radius, and body control. Johnson

him log snaps. You don’t have to be a dynamic athlete to be a good

isn’t the most dynamic on the ground, but he’s almost always open

receiver. He does a lot of things well.

above it. Present: He’s on a solid trajectory and there’s no mistaking his talent, but there’s also room for improvement, especially when it

HWR | FR Josh Moore, #14, 6-1, 175

comes to playing with the urgency and physicality required to get off

Past: Moore was a highly rated player with great measured athleti-

the line of scrimmage. Future: We’ve heard he’s trading barbs and

cism who fell into UT’s lap late. Present: I already know I under-rated

blows with Kris Boyd and his confidence and competitiveness are at

him because he’s already demonstrating qualities I was unsure

an all time high. That’s well and good, but what Johnson really needs

he had. In high school he was often to the outside, but now he’s

in order to take the next step is complementary interplay between the

impressing as an inside receiver. The two positions require different

booth, the offensive line, and the quarterback. If he gets that, you’ll

traits and it appears Moore is quite well rounded. Future: He’s had

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

a good first camp and will play this year, likely very early. Skill-wise he could be a like-for-like replacement for Reggie Hemphill-Mapps. If he has Reggie’s toughness, and I believe he does, he’s going to be good sooner rather than later.

HWR | FR D’shawn Jamison, #5, 5-10, 180 Past: Oh man, it was love at first sight when Jamison’s highlights came across my Twitter timeline. Immediately I had him measured for nickel, but his elite athleticism, best demonstrated in the return game, meant other positions were possible. A Texas version of Adore’e Jackson is how I put it. Present: Hemphill-Mapps’ departure also opened the door for Jamison in the slot. Though he’s not as versed at receiver as Moore, he’s able to put returner’s ability to use on sweeps, screens, and in the open field. He’s probably the most explosive athlete on the roster. Future: He’ll play extremely early, and the more he makes plays the more his role will expand. Over time he’ll need to become more nuanced as a receiver, but initially he provides another constraint for defenses that are over-populating the D’shawn Jamison

box to stop the run.

XWR | FR Brennan Eagles, #82, 6-3, 225 Past: Possessing good straight-line speed, good ball skills with strong hands, and a big frame, Eagles is how you sketch an X receiver on paper. My questions concerning him were that we didn’t see those traits working in concert often enough, though in fairness, he was hampered by injury his senior season. Present: X is thin and unproven behind Collin Johnson so Eagles has received his share of reps in preparation for needing him at some point. Athletically and skill-wise he belongs, but he needs to become more assertive and use his size and strength. Future: As soon as he realizes he can physically dominate smaller players, he’ll experience more success,

ent: Woodard has looked solid since his arrival at Texas. He clearly holds the attributes required to play Z, but there is a lot of tenure in front of him so he’ll have to wait his turn. Along with being a player who can take the top off a defense, he has some softer skills as well.

Future: This time next year he’ll either be competing for snaps with Devin Duvernay or providing quality depth. His combination of speed and power (amazing build) should help him win on the higher ends of the route tree. If he can become more nuanced on the lower ends of the route tree, he has a very bright future. He could be a guy you try and run screens for. I expect he’ll red-shirt this season just because of how the roster sets up.

but that may be down the road a ways.

XWR/TE | FR Malcolm Epps, #85, 6-5, 230 Past: Epps was on the recruiting scene early and wasted no time committing to Alabama. The two parted ways and he soon began leaning towards Texas. I was lukewarm towards him, though I was impressed with his raw athletic traits, even when playing defense.

Present: As stated, depth at X is needed and Epps isn’t physically ready for tight end, so he’s been repping at receiver. His current role as a target receiver is very similar to his “tight end” role in high school. Future: He has a very uncommon frame that will easily fill out and have him looking like a rush-end, but the big question is how he views himself as a player. If he embraces the physical aspects of the sport and adds good weight that he’ll carry naturally, he could become a monster. If he wants to remain a wide receiver he’s going to have to prove he can get open against college level cornerbacks who are used to covering much more agile players. In my opinion, it would be ideal to play him in four games and red-shirt him before dedicating the off-season to making him an adequate blocker and lethal receiving option at tight end.

ZWR | FR Al’vonte Woodard, #83, 6-1, 205 Past: Quick-twitch outside receiver with an exceptional build and more length than his height indicates. His senior year lagged only because his team didn’t receive even average quarterback play: Pres-

HOW IT SHAKES OUT The three starters are set, but things get interesting when the staff goes to 10 personnel and brings in a fourth receiver. The options there are to be bring in Jamison to threaten the width of the field, or Josh Moore to threaten the vertical levels like we saw HemphillMapps last year. I imagine we’ll see a bit of both.

As a donor who attended practice recently told me, “Texas doesn’t have a Roy Williams that jumps out as a great athlete, but they don’t lack for talent.” Indeed, and because of Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s versatility, all the parts are complementary.

If Texas can establish the run game, each receiver is dangerous enough in his role to the point the offensive staff will have it’s pick of mismatches to exploit. From there it comes down to execution.

Tom Herman isn’t wired to try and hang 50 on the scoreboard weekin and week-out, but he is wired to take advantage of a defense devoting numbers to stop the run by hitting athletes in space and down-field. If players at the primary positions of importance do their job, you will magically see UT’s wide receiving corp become more talented overnight.

2018 Season Preview

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DEFENSIVE LINE

I believe the defensive line will set the tempo for the entire team. With its mix of experience, developed talent, and infusion of youth, the defensive line should be the most consistent week-in, week-out performers on the team.

SR | DE Breckyn Hager, #44, 6-3, 255

stout secondary. Omenihu is already on the radar of NFL scouting

Past: Unheralded linebacker/defensive end from a heralded football

departments but he has the chance to become a very well known

family. Present: He won’t come off the field much this season. He

commodity this season.

can play an outside stand-up role or put his hand in the ground as a 4i defensive end. He’ll play nose tackle if you ask him to. A hyper-ag-

SR | DT Chris Nelson, #97, 6-1, 315

gressive player who is physically in the best shape of his life. Future:

Past: Florida transplant who played linebacker into his junior year of

Hager should spend as much time on the other side of the line of

high school, though he projected to defensive tackle. Present: With

scrimmage as his own. In many ways he’s become the heart and soul

the prevalence of three-man fronts, Nelson has played end for much

of the team, so good play from him should inspire others. Explosive

of his career. His body type won’t lend to stuffing the stat sheet from

edge play will have his name called at next year’s NFL draft.

end, but he can play the run well. Future: Nelson will try to fill the void left by Poona Ford as he swings inside to his natural habitat. The

SR | DE Charles Omenihu, #90, 6-6, 275 Past: Underrated due to long-term growth curve but upon thorough evaluation he had immense upside due to his length, ability to play

more disruptive he can be, the better off the linebackers will have it.

At a bare minimum he should be above average.

with leverage, and mental evaluation. Present: Has flashed immense

SR | DL Jamari Chisholm, #91, 6-4, 300

potential at times but has yet to fill the stat sheet like he can. Started

Past: Originally from Valdosta, Georgia, he attended Northeastern

12 games last season and barring injury will start them all this year.

Oklahoma A&M prior to Texas. Present: Has only seen spot action,

Future: Both Omenihu and Hager should see their statistics increase

though his frame lends to versatility. Future: Chisholm looks the part

dramatically as defensive coordinator Todd Orlando looks to employ

and should be solid depth or someone who finishes games late.

a four-man front more often. Both ends should also be aided by a

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS JR | DT Gerald Wilbon, #94, 6-3, 310

FR | DT Keondre Coburn, #99, 6-3, 330

Past: Barrel-chested interior lineman who was part of a monster

Past: Was 6-1.5, 330, but apparently grew like a few others. As a

defensive line class in Louisiana. Present: Was recruited to be more

recruit reviews were mixed on Coburn but I think he has rare quick-

of a two-gapper but has done well to keep weight off in hopes to

ness and solid lateral ability for his body type. He does play with the

become more disruptive as a gap-taker. Thus far he’s been solid.

power you’d expect. Present: Playing time is on the table for Coburn,

Future: Should see snaps increase in four-man looks, or as a substi-

but he’s going to have to prove to be in shape and reliable. Future:

tute for Nelson in three-man. There’s nothing spectacular about him,

Worst case scenario he should be an anchor in the middle but he has

but there’s always a place for workmanlike effort and strength in the

the raw ability to be more if he puts in the work. I think he’ll put in the

trenches. Should be good versus the run.

work.

JR | DT D’Andre Christmas, #55, 6-3, 315

FR | DL Mike Williams, #37, 6-2, 275

Past: Was a late-bloomer due to sitting out his junior year of high

Past: An already big quarterback who kept getting bigger, Williams

school due to a transfer. As a senior showed great ability to disrupt off

showed actual dual-threat ability and might have stayed there had

the ball. Present: The most notable aspect of his time at Texas thus

he not been so big boned. Present: The Henry Melton plan -- from

far is dropping the -Giles from his name. Apparently Oscar has yet to

offense to defense while wearing #37 -- is already off to a fast start.

forgive him. Future: We should see more of Christmas this season

Sources have raved about his work in the weight room and ability to

but he’s already firmly on the Gaskamp watch list for 2019.

move in agility drills. Future: I don’t think they’ll need him to play this year, but I’m not sure they’ll be able to keep him off the field early,

SO | DL Ta’Quon Graham, #49, 6-4, 285

especially with their eye towards 2019.

Past: Blossomed from a 220 pound edge rusher to 260 pound defensive linemen over the course of his high school career. An injury

FR | DL Daniel Carson, #88, 6-4, 300

filled senior season kept his ranking lower than it should have been.

Past: I was early on liking Carson and was upset when I didn’t think

Present: Arrived with a mental maturity that immediately impressed

they’d get him. It’s easy to see he has a nice stain and scratch-free

the coaches. His physical maturity helped, too. One of the strongest

resistant floor, but I think there’s a bit more ceiling there than he’s

players on the team. Saw action in 12 games as a true freshman.

given credit for. Interestingly, in his native Missouri he won state

Future: He sounds like a big part of the plans this season as a

in shot put with a throw that would have been two feet better than

possible first alternate at both defensive end and tackle. Guys like

the Texas 5A winner (would have been third in 6A). Present: Per a

Graham give efficacy to playing multiple fronts. Probably a year away

source, that 300 pound listing is in the ballpark which changes his

from a breakout, but he’ll show plenty of promise this season.

projection. Future: I believe Carson will red-shirt due to technical limitations, but as an interior player with length and defensive end-ish

SO | DE Marqez Bimage, #42, 6-2, 255

athleticism, I think Carson has a chance to be the biggest steal in the

Past: With one of the best first-steps in the 2017 class, Bimage was

class relative to expectations.

only a three-star because of his lack of length and positional clarity.

Linebacker or defensive end? This staff didn’t care and he was a priority at Houston and then at Texas. Present: Currently known as having the strongest squat on the team (700 pounds), he’ll likely become better known for playing with aggression and explosiveness off the edge as a back-up to Hager. Future: Expect to see Bimage show promise this season before becoming a starter or heavy-rotation player in 2019. The staff wants to throw waves of grown men at offenses, and guys like Graham and Bimage fits the bill.

FR | DL Moro Ojomo, #98, 6-2, 285 Past: Moved to California from Nigeria when he was seven. With their ultimate goal to live in America, the family continued on to Texas when Ojomo was in the seventh grade. There he found his way into the Katy farm system. Present: Ojomo is best known for looking and playing like a full grown man at the age of 16. Future: Despite his age he’ll likely prove too good to red-shirt. Expect him to get experience this season before taking on an expanded role in 2019. He has the look of a gap-shooting terror.

Jamari Chisholm

2018 Season Preview

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LINEBACKERS

Anthony Wheeler

At Texas, no other position on defense has been more inconsistent this decade than linebacker. This is best exhibited twice in near mirroring fashion. In Manny Diaz’s first year, he inherited experienced and talented players in Keenan Robinson and Emmanuel Acho. After they departed the Texas defense went from good to Taysom Hill Heisman candidate.

In Vance Bedford’s first year, he inherited experienced and talented players in Jordan Hicks and Steve Edmond. This differs slightly in that Hicks was oft-injured and despite being very talented, Edmond had been poorly developed. Linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary did well to get Hicks and Edmond playing the best ball of their career. Then they departed and the defense went from good to whatever portmanteau comes from dreadful and Bedford.

Compare these scenarios to what Todd Orlando inherited at the position. He had Malik Jefferson, who like Edmond flashed talent at times, but played far too inconsistently. He had Anthony Wheeler who looked the part much more than he played it. Given poor depth and lack of success at the position, he added Gary Johnson. Upon arrival Johnson was an incredible athlete and instinctive, but on the smaller side and hadn’t been developed.

So what did Orlando do? He dedicated numbers to stopping the pass yet still stopped the run. Jefferson was downright excellent at times and good most others. Wheeler had his stumbles and was replaced by Jefferson but that was only made possible

by Johnson’s emergence and Jefferson’s understanding of multiple positions.

Orlando’s job as a position coach last year was the best one we’ve seen in quite some time. Given the context of what he inherited and what he did with it, as well as his history at U of H, I feel confident that as long as he’s at Texas the program will field quality play at the position even if individual talent levels ebb and flow.

Here’s another kernel to stick between your teeth: when he changed what is effectively his base defense from nickel to dime in mid-season, he added another position to coach. Like Commissioner Gordon, the Joker falls under his jurisdiction.

This will undoubtedly be the lowest numbers Orlando has to work with at the position. Because of that he’s cross-trained those versatile enough to play multiple positions as well as expedited the timelines for younger players.

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS RLB | SR Gary Johnson, #33, 6-0, 230 Past: As an offensive player with 10.6 speed and a defensive temperament, he represents the case study for what schools who recruit poorly on defense should be looking for. Find guys who might be lacking the necessary offensive skill but nevertheless project to college athletically, then put them in the right spot. He’s the type of eval that would over-excite another Gary into labor prematurely.

Johnson was a three-sport athlete with bountiful twitch and a dinner plate sized chip on his shoulder. Present: Showed the same tacklemachine traits in his first year at Texas as he did at Dodge City CC. Because of his instincts and elite speed he could get by at times being an athlete at the position. Future: You don’t often find leaders in the Juco ranks but that’s exactly what Johnson is. He isn’t going to give a 20 minute speech, but he is going to tell you to get all your reps and get more if you’re not doing them right. Ain’t no half-reppin’.

He’ll be the heart of the defense and bolster his rep as a sideline to sideline player. Though Rover is his home because it best marries his strengths to scheme, he’s worked at Mac, B-backer, and F-backer.

MLB | SR Anthony Wheeler, #45, 6-3, 235 Past: Highly recruited linebacker from Dallas Skyline who looked like a Texas take as early as his sophomore year when he was an edge defender. Present: He’s started a lot of games but it’s been a mixed bag. Even if you grant that he was poorly developed under Strong, he still played inconsistently last season before essentially being replaced to make room for Johnson. We see the light bulb come on for different players at different times, or sometimes not at all.

Wheeler is a bit stiff so he can’t afford to not diagnose incorrectly, but I was decently encouraged by his performance in the spring game.

He made some good plays out in space which is a bonus for what he’s asked to do. Future: He could get caught up in the positional wash again this season depending on how he performs compared to others, including Malcolm Roach and Jeffrey McCulloch. For now he’s the odds on favorite to own the job after he serves his first half suspension versus Maryland, but we know how Roach starts bouncing around and maiming people once the lights come on. If Wheeler has a strong year it will be another indication of Orlando’s ability as a teacher. Good dude, hope Wheeler balls out and gets a look at the NFL, but if not he could probably eat M&M’s on his way to winning a handful of Sandow’s.

BLB | JR Malcolm Roach, #32, 6-3, 270 Past: Hilariously underrated football athlete. If we measure weight here by Coburns, I think we should use Roach rather than newton for the unit of force. Roach simply has too much bounce to the ounce to measure by conventional standards. Present: He’s only made 8 career starts but he’s played a lot of snaps from many different alignments. If it seems he’s been all over the field it’s because he has.

Roach is a bit of a victim of his own ability to line up where needed rather than where he’s best suited. His long-term position is clearly

Malcolm Roach

as a defensive end or edge defender, but he’s also getting looks at more traditional linebacker positions. Future: In the Humidor we hinted at Breckyn Hager aligning all over the field and Roach will as well. He’s worked every linebacker position save F-backer as well as along the defensive line. Where he’ll get the bulk of his snaps is still a bit of a mystery. He’d be limited in space as a Mac, but the Lightning package could mitigate that because he’d be flanked by a great athlete, potentially the slimmed down mutant version of himself, DeMarvion Overhsown. It could very well be that his position becomes more clear over time and with it Orlando’s 2018 defensive identity.

BLB | JR Jeffrey McCulloch, #23, 6-3, 250 Past: He was an edge terror who mixed quickness with strength and striking power. A tad stiff for the modern game at inside linebacker but still with the ability to project there. Present: He showed a lot of promise as a true freshman making 17 solo tackles in limited snaps.

On many occasions he showed that knock-back power and maybe even a little more directional twitch than I anticipated. A few plays versus Iowa State still stand out in my mind. His sophomore year was largely wasted as the staff went away from utilizing his position after mistakenly buying into Naashon Hughes. He was also injured towards the end of the season. Future: He’s too talented to not play, even if it’s a narrow role of rushing the passer. He showed the same traits he did in high school in the spring game and then repped every linebacker position in the off-season. In a starting rotation of three players he appears to be the next man up but he’s nursing a minor

2018 Season Preview

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS injury and has true freshmen vying for snaps.

LB | JR Cameron Townsend, #43, 6-1, 215

BLB | FR Joseph Ossai, #46, 6-4, 245 Past: Perhaps the Vitruvian Man for Orlando’s B-backer fit. Texas missed on K’Lavon after he went Chaisson fame donindatswamp in

Past: His best tape was as a sophomore where, for his age, he

the previous cycle and couldn’t afford to miss on Ossai. Present: He

showed twitch and the potential to be a hybrid Eric Striker type. From

was playing B-backer with the ones in a fall camp scrimmage and

there, neither his game or build developed along the lines one would

really impressed. Along with being a great athletic eval he had a high

hope to see. Present: He’s a naturally lean and muscled player, but

mental evaluation which he’s displaying. Future: The position allows

not big. That was more of a hindrance early on, now he’s down the

Orlando a lot of flexibility, and Ossai allows Orlando flexibility within

depth chart and has played very sparingly. Future: After a brief stint

that flexibility, though his best asset will be bending the corner and

at running back he’s back a linebacker.

using his length and quickness to chase down quarterbacks.

LB | JR DeMarco Boyd, #36, 6-0, 240

BLB | FR Byron Vaughns, #50, 6-4, 225

Past: He’s your hometown high school football hero whose ability on

Past: In the past his last name was Hobbs but on Father’s Day he

that level doesn’t translate to college like many inferior high school

gave his stepdad the wonderful gift of taking the last name Vaughns.

players in every cycle. Present: He’s currently serving an indefinite

As a player who was young for his grade he showed uncommon

suspension. Future: It’s in doubt and sources are unsure if he’ll

length and athleticism all in an untapped frame, and he showed it in

return to the program.

multiple sports. Present: He’s definitely in need of a developmental

LB | FR Ayodele Adeoye, #40, 6-1, 250

year which was part of the evaluation. The extra lifting session every week will do him wonders. Check tha neck: he’s going to fill out just

Past: Classic middle linebacker with duties of defending the run first

fine. Future: Much will be dependent on development but we’ve seen

and run second. I termed it, “he’ll bang the triangle like Laura Ingalls

what Yancy McKnight can do, so I’m working under the assumption

Wilder calling prairie children to supper.” Present: That character-

he’ll physically maximize. I foresee him as a muscled up condor at

ization still sounds apt. He enrolled early and has impressed within

B-backer. Because of Ossai and Hobbs the staff only has a passing

the framework of his evaluation. Future: Flank him with guys like

interest in recruiting the position this cycle. It’ll be theirs to share in

Overshown, Foster, and Sterns and you can sacrifice some athleti-

the coming years.

cism as long as he’s defending the run very well. He’s showing early signs of a multi-year starter at Mac dependent on how Texas recruits the position.

Jeffrey McCulloch

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DEFENSIVE BACKS

Kris Boyd

The most populated position grouping on the Texas roster is defensive backs. You don’t really notice this until you get ready to write about each player, or until you want to run dime and have a legitimate two deep.

Texas doesn’t just have bodies at the position, it has solid and experienced veterans with talent still yet to surface, solid role players, and an exciting crop of youngsters with the potential to put any question of who the real DBU is to sleep for the next decade. Insert Sterns and Foster joke here.

We know the deal, Texas is going to almost always have five or six defensive backs on the field, and sometimes more. Orlando is going to flood the field with athleticism and cover-men while trying to sacrifice as little size and physicality as possible.

Options abound.

CB | SR Kris Boyd, #2, 6-0, 200

his talent. His aggressiveness may bite him a time or two, but this is

Past: Versatile player with elite athletic traits who played much of

likely the year UT gets its big tax refund.

his career on offense. Became an avatar for the wavering, attention seeking recruit, though upon further review he was a young man with

CB | SR Davante Davis, #18, 6-2, 205

little guidance who was legitimately torn in many directioins. I was

Past: Long, raw, and athletic, Davis profiled to cornerback or safety

always high on his football character, meaning I saw very little bust

and was an intriguing piece in a very talented class. Present: He’s

potential despite his turbulent recruitment. Present: He held to his

had an up and down career largely due to mental engagement. He

eval and was a longer-curve guy, though he’s flashed ability since

flashed promise as a freshman and then proved far too unreliable for

the second he took the field. His junior year was easily his best as

a season and a half. He ended last year on a high note and reports

he showed more consistency as the season wore on. Future: He’s

we’ve received this off-season are favorable. Future: If he can limit

poised for a breakout season in which levels of consistency match

mental errors he’ll be good, but he has the potential to be much

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

more. Like Boyd, Davis is very solid versus the run.

brother Devin. Present: Played very sparingly after a redshirt year.

Future: Duvernay is not without ability but he’s down the depth

DB | SR PJ Locke, #11, 5-11, 210

chart and the way Texas recruits the position it’ll be tough for him to

Past: Was originally slated to sign with Oregon but Texas had a late

ascend.

need and went in for the steal. He profiled to nickel where he’s spent most of his career. Present: Like Boyd and Davis, Locke’s play has

CB | SO Eric Cuffee, #26, 6-0, 195

been too inconsistent. He particularly struggled with run support early

Past: One of the better corners in a down instate class but there

in the 2017 season, though he did begin to play better before being

were still some thought he may be a safety. Present: Redshirted as

injured and missing four games at the end of the year. Future: He

a freshman and didn’t see the field as last year. Future: He is down

played safety in the bowl game and for much of the spring, but early

the depth chart and even with Texas losing Boyd and Davis after

in August camp he’s been back at nickel. It isn’t hard to imagine any

this season it will be tough for him to see the field the way Texas has

outcome for Locke’s finale He could own the position all year and go

recruited.

out on a high note or he could give way to Josh Thompson. He’ll be on a shorter leash than last year.

CB | SO Kobe Boyce, #38, 6-0, 175 Past: Quick-footed and fluid, Boyce looked like a potential field

DB | JR Brandon Jones, #19, 6-1, 210

corner. The only question was a dumb one; would he put on weight?

Past: One of the crown jewels of the 2016 class as a do-it-all safety.

Present: He had a productive redshirt season in which he gave his

Present: Active in run support with the ability to get downhill quick

teammates game-like looks and earned consistent praise from the

from deep. Range in coverage is good, though ball skills have been

coaches. Future: He’s going to play a lot of football for this staff, and

underwhelming. Struggled playing off of Locke at times, though I’m

will likely even start at some point.

not sure whose fault that was. Future: As a near five-star he has expectations he has yet to meet but he isn’t done growing as a player.

DB | FR Montrell Estell, #39, 6-1, 200

It’s telling with the influx of talent that his job has never appeared in

Past: Great athlete who toyed with his level of competition on both

jeopardy, though that competition is assuredly pushing him to maxi-

sides. Safety was my preference but I thought offense was possible

mize. I expect him to make a jump in level of play similar to Deshon

as well. Present: He red-shirted but was looking great at safety in

Elliott last season. Thanks to ability in coverage he’ll be more prized

bowl practices before injuring his foot. Future: He’s set to remain

than Elliott by NFL scouting departments. If you belief in this staff’s

on defense despite the staff’s most recent haul of safeties. That

ability to develop you’d be foolish to not believe in Jones.

DB | SO Josh Thompson, #29, 6-0, 200 Past: Played corner alongside Jones in high school but truly came into his own after he replaced the player one year ahead of him.

Present: Physically and mentally mature for his age, Thompson has worked at corner, nickel, safety, and joker. Though his play was limited as a freshman, he flashed ability on special teams. Future: He’s in a battle with Locke to start at nickel. If that doesn’t work out he’ll battle for joker. He’s a strong presence on the edge with good coverage ability. It’s only a matter of time before he finds a home on the field.

DB | SO Chris Brown, #15, 5-11, 210 Past: Known primarily for his physicality, Brown also had good coverage skills for a true safety. Present: He redshirted and then played primarily on special teams. Future: Tough to say. He could become valued depth but it’s going to be tough to crack the starting line-up the way the staff has recruited.

CB | SO Donovan Duvernay, #27, 5-9, 195 Past: Solid athlete in his own right but was overshadowed by his

Devante Davis

2018 Season Preview

51

2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

says quite a bit about his ability, as well as how the staff views the

nearly as much. Like both Cook and Sterns, he’s competitive with

long-term need at the position (early departures). Even if he doesn’t

high football IQ and character. Future: If he didn’t have BJ Jones in

become a starter in the next year or two, he could be an amazing

front of him, he’d too be a freshman starter. He’ll play a lot and could

robber in dime looks.

find himself in a number of roles.

DB | FR Caden Sterns, #7, 6-0, 205

DB | DeMarvion Overshown, #31, 6-3, 210

Past: Interceptions drew immediate attention to not just his ball skills,

Past: Freakish combination of length, explosiveness, fluidity, and

but also length, and most importantly instincts. He’s a good athlete

physicality. About as uncommon of a composite of raw traits as you’ll

but it’s his mental attributes that set him apart. He’s also quick to get

find. Present: He’s working at safety thus far but expect him to play

downhill in the run game. Present: He’s already penciled in at first

joker once the staff installs dime. Future: He’ll likely prove too good

team boundary safety. Future: With Deshon Elliott we saw how Todd

to not play this season in his narrow role. Once he understands his

Orlando puts boundary safety in position to ball hawk. If Sterns is

role, he allows you to still play big while going small. Could very well

starting in a secondary that’s this experienced expect a Freshman All

grow into Gary Johnson’s replacement but let’s take it a season at a

American campaign. What happens when the coach on the field is

time.

also a certified baller?

CB | Jalen Green, #3, 6-0, 185 Past: He was the best athlete on the field regardless of who he shared it with. Played quarterback because that’s where he was needed to win games but he’s an extremely high upside corner.

Present: Feisty player with plenty of athleticism, but like Boyd before him he’s lacking skill at the position as well as reps. Future: He always had a much longer road to the field than his contemporary Cook, but once he catches up mentally he could become the best corner the school has produced in a long, long time. Expect him too learn a lot this year before becoming a starter in his second season.

HOW IT SHAKES OUT Boyd and Davis will be your opening day corners, and probably throughout the year. Assuming they play to their talents, they’ll allow the staff to bring the young corners along at their own pace.

Anthony Cook

Safety should be somewhat solidified already with Jones and Sterns.

Jones, the junior, should become a vocal leader and Sterns will be

CB | FR Anthony Cook, #4, 6-0, 190

playing like a veteran by mid-season. Nickel and joker are a bit more

Past: Technically proficient with quick feet and an aggressive

up in the air. Locke and Thompson will battle it out for nickel with the

demeanor that belies his baby face and slight build. I personally prob-

loser of that battle potentially becoming the joker.

ably underrated him, though I gave him very high marks in the mental eval department. Present: After enrolling early he’s already the third

Because of their talent, you must keep an eye on Foster and Over-

corner. His quick feet, technique, and mental maturity are already

shown. Depending on how they want to employ the joker it could fit

receiving rave reviews. Future: He’ll play a lot as a freshman and is

either one of those special youngsters.

the heir apparent to Kris Boyd.

This is the most NFL talent Texas has had in the secondary since

DB | BJ Foster, #25, 6-2, 210

the ‘05 season. Though much of it is young, fans should be excited

Past: Two-way player who is good enough to play running back

to see how Orlando deploys it, especially with a defensive front that

in college but safety in the NFL. Explosive athlete with good size.

should get pressure on the quarterback.

Natural football player with baseline NFL everything. Present: He’s more raw than Sterns but a better overall athlete and has impressed

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Texas’ 2018 schedule is generally considered the toughest in the Big 12 and one of the harder slates nationally. This is mostly because the rest of the Big 12 isn’t opting for taking on a blueblood like USC in their non-conference slate this year (except TCU, taking on Ohio State) but it’s still fairly remarkable given that, unlike the rest of the Big 12, Texas never has to play Texas. Not literally, at least. photos by Will Gallagher

2018 Season Preview

54

2018 SCHEDULE

by Ian Boyd

Charles Omenihu 2018 Season Preview

55

2018 SCHEDULE

MARYLAND College Park, MD | September 1 Head coach: D.J. Durkin

and inside zone plays. The fact that they

have in this game and this season is a

do this regularly from under center is

much more experienced and trustworthy

unique and can create extra problems for

secondary than they trotted out for the 2017

defenders who are trained to handle similar

matchup.

philosophies executed with different tactics.

Texas will be dealing with some option

2017 Record: 6-7 | Big 10 Series Record: Texas leads 3-1

A

lright, we’re all going to have to take Maryland more seriously this year.

All of that presents some concern for Texas,

and edge-stressing tactics all season so

who has to be aware of both the shotgun

the smart play for week one is to come out

option tactics that Maryland’s largely intact

and utilize the base tactics for handling

offense should be very strong in as well as

it, scrape zone blitzes and base quarters,

The 2017 Terps made a significant leap from 2016 that wasn’t obvious from their final record (4-8) because their starting QB (Tyrell Pigrome) was lost for the year against Texas and his effective back-up (Kasim Hill) was lost a few games later.

Hill and Pigrome both proved to be explosive runners, each running for 5.8 ypc, and lead RB Ty Johnson ran for another 6.4. They were great at spreading opponents out, executing spread run game staples, and relying on two-man games where either ballcarrier was explosive to wreak havoc on Texas’ unready defense.

Shane Buechele

Meanwhile, D.J. Durkin’s defense made a small leap in year two that was blunted by another injury to a top performer (DE Jessie Aniebonam) who now returns along with most of the defensive backfield while being joined by some transfers and younger Durkin recruits.

They were a smart unit a year ago that knew how to play to Texas tendencies and they should be that much better at gameplanning and attacking in 2018.

The overall design of Maryland’s offense is basically to create hesitation and problems for DEs and OLBs on the edge of the line with the threat of perimeter runs from guys getting the ball on the move so that he can run the ball downhill with power

56

the Matt Canada offense that may or may

and lean on talent and soundness to out-

not have been installed effectively for the

execute the Terps. If they can’t execute the

fall.

basic schemes then having success getting tricky against the Terps won’t portend

They could either be a versatile and

anything good about the upcoming season

explosive unit or else a confused and inept

and if they do execute the base schemes

squad. It’s hard to say for sure before they

well that should be enough.

take the field, which they won’t do until they play Texas.

It’s a similar story on offense, where Texas really needs to just go out and prove that

Texas DC Todd Orlando’s obvious

they can move the ball consistently running

preference in terms of philosophy is to

inside zone right at an opponent and then

attack, which can go very poorly when you

hitting the easy candy that comes when

aren’t totally confident of your opponent’s

opponents have to try and adjust.

M.O. and are facing legit speed.

Of note, the most disruptive returning However, the advantage Texas should

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defender (other than Aniebonam) is Terp

2018 SCHEDULE nickel Antoine Brooks Jr, a 5-11, 210 pounder

where the QB reads the nickel to determine

Maryland is going to be a test of Texas’ basic

who was effective in last year’s opener. He’s

whether to handoff or throw, then that should

competency in executing and defending

essentially what Texas was hoping that P.J.

help Texas to control Brooks and make this a

spread-to-run 101 tactics...unless they go

Locke would be last year, a mobile hybrid

war of attrition between the tackles.

full-bore into Canada’s under center offense

that can cover up slots and TEs in the middle

in which case they could be particularly easy

of the field and bring some physicality when

On passing downs, there’s already no

or difficult to beat depending on how well that

serving as a plus one defender off the edge.

shortage of doubt about Brooks’ ability to

install goes.

match up with Lil’Jordan Humphrey one-onIf Sam Ehlinger is more confident in schemes

one.

TULSA Austin, TX | September 8 Head coach: Philip Montgomery 2017 Record: 2-10 | AAC Series Record: 1st Meeting

T

ulsa is in a very entertaining phase right now. Does everyone remember when

Sterlin Gilbert came from Tulsa and installed the veer and shoot at Texas?

Remember when this site emphasized that Shane Buechele would be the starter over Ty Swoopes or Jerrod Heard because of basic

Gary Johnson

fit?

Well last year’s run with Chad President at QB was an example of what might have happened had Gilbert chosen to ride with Swoopes.

Tulsa’s already potent run game added an unneeded dimension from the QB run game while their deadly passing attack nosedived, the defense remained horrible, and they finished the year 2-10.

There was a stretch of games where President rode the bench with an injury and freshman passer Luke Skipper took over, the passing game ticked upwards but the team was still lousy and he threw four INTs in six games.

Presumably Skipper will run the show against Texas while President will serve as

a package player running Wildcat in the red

defense, and one-time B12 miracle worker

zone. How dangerous the Golden Hurricanes

Bill Young (coached the Mangino-era

prove to be hinges on whether Skipper can

Jayhawks and the good OSU Ds at the turn

execute the deep iso routes that make this

of the decade) may struggle to scheme and

style of offense dangerous.

adjust to current-day Big 12 offenses as a 71-year old DC.

You almost hope he can so that Texas can trot out the lightning package and

The worst case scenario here for Texas

test whether it’s still capable of defending

is that the Golden Hurricane prove to be

spread run game concepts from the 2-robber

a much more sound unit and their talent

defense that confounded opponents last

infusion allows them to hold up to the

year when Poona Ford and Malik Jefferson

Longhorns well enough to give themselves a

manned the middle.

chance in a shootout.

The Tulsa defense threw up a Hail Mary by

That’s certainly a plausible outcome, the

adding something like seven JUCOs this

more likely is that they are still an incomplete

coming year.

offense and a porous defense that the Longhorns ride roughshod over despite being

They’re a mess, it’s plain that Montgomery

distracted by their week three opponent.

shares Art Briles’ laissez-faire approach to

2018 Season Preview

57

2018 SCHEDULE Petite and Daniel Imatorbhebhe.

USC

work their sideline checks against them and have them call runs into blitzes designed to

Austin, TX | September 15 Head coach: Clay Helton 2017 Record: 10-3 | Pac 12

The name of the game for USC is running

stuff them. If the Trojans can’t figure that out

the ball early and often with standard inside/

with a freshman QB out there, and they may

outside zone and power from 11 personnel:

not, they could be in big trouble much like they were a year ago.

That’s Carr there, winning the edge after Petite drives the end man of the line off

The other good news here is that this offense

the ball and allows the bounce. He’s great

depends a lot on winning the edge with TE

T

downhill but he also has the speed to win the

blocks and the Trojans will be facing Hager

edge if his blockers can secure the angle.

and Omenihu when they do so. Still, this is

Last year the Trojans had to make do with

a much more talented and physical running

challenge has just been getting all of the

converted center Toa Lobendahn (6-3, 295)

team than their reputation suggests.

at LT and broke in young guard Andrew

Series Record: USC leads 5-1 exas knows what they’re getting from the Trojans. USC has a well established

system and program in place now. Their pieces in place at the same time and depth issues have held them back from building a playoff team.

The 2018 Trojans are still probably one piece away from fully realizing the playoff vision due to Sam Darnold’s departure for the NFL and the likely early promotion of five-star freshman signal caller J.T. Daniels.

Like most five-star QB recruits, his rep and highlight film is built largely off having the arm strength and mechanics to deliver strikes down the field off simple reads.

Voorhees. Now they’re planning to move

The Trojan defense also gets a bad rap

Lobendahn back to center while fielding four

because of lackluster effort last year in year

returning starters and three seniors overall

two under returned DC Clancy Pendergast

across the line.

that was primarily due to injuries and lack of depth. For instance, if Porter Gustin hadn’t

Beating USC will be about holding up against

left the game with an injury Texas probably

their run game and forcing young Daniels

never launches the comeback that forced

(and probably an underclassman LT) into

overtime because there wasn’t a Longhorn

obvious passing downs against Breckyn

tackle out there after Connor Williams went

Hager, Charles Omenihu, and the Todd

down that could block him.

Orlando blitz package which will undoubtedly include lots of new features specifically

Gustin is back this year along with DE

designed and saved for this game. Last year

Christian Rector, who emerged a year ago

Orlando lured USC into traps designed to

and stripped Ehlinger on the goal line carry

That’s not necessarily as translatable as everyone assumes although he does seem like he’d be a lock to start this year in an offense like Oklahoma State’s or Tulsa’s.

The USC offense is built more off West Coast dropback passing game but you figure he’ll be heavily drilled from the outset in their RPO and play-action concepts in the hopes that they can win early with their run game, defense, and a few big plays throwing down the field.

The Trojans skill players around him all had to grow under the bright lights of playing with Darnold on a team with big expectations in 2017 and they should be ready to go.

RB Stephen Carr is a worthy feature back while young receivers Tyler Vaughns (809 receiving yards in 2017) and Michael Pittman, Jr (404 receiving yards) will be back and flanked by experienced tight ends Tyler

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2018 SCHEDULE for the win, as well as middle linebacker Cameron Smith (the real deal) and free safety Marvell Tell.

They lost cornerback Jack Jones when he was suspended to get his academics in order and was then arrested for burglary and fled to the JUCOs. They’ll still have three starters back in the secondary though and blue chiprich ranks from which to promote two more players.

Their biggest issue a year ago was the unsteady health of the interior DL, which will now be led by 320-pound sophomore Brandon Pili and RS freshman tackle Jay Tufele. They love their 2-4-5 looks which slide Rector inside to the 3-technique and play Gustin and another OLB as stand-up DEs. Those can make for tricky blitz pick-ups and they are more resistant to downhill runs than you’d think because of the play of their OLBs and ILB Smith, who are all excellent at beating blocks mano a mano. The design

Charles Omenihu

of their defense dares teams to try and run

make all the difference. Ehlinger barely lost

right at them but if one or both of their young,

in that sort of exchange with Darnold in

Islander DTs are ready to go that won’t be

2017, this will be his chance to set the tone

easy at all.

for 2018 by decisively winning that head to head against Darnold’s replacement.

On the surface this looks like another grueling back and forth in which protecting the football and playmaking at QB is likely to

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2018 SCHEDULE

THE GAUNTLET Much like a year ago, the Texas schedule is set up for a tough middle stretch with a softer landing on the back half that should allow a strong finish. The season’s ceiling will be set by games four through six. The Longhorns host TCU, travel to Kansas State, and then take on Oklahoma in Dallas.

Technically the season’s ceiling is always set by what happens in the Cotton Bowl. Even if Oklahoma was down and not particularly relevant to the title hunt in a given year it

would still matter whether or not Texas beat them. As it happens, the Sooners do figure

Since the Frogs joined the B12, Texas

to be contenders for the league crown once

has scored 76 total points against Gary

more and the Longhorns are going to be

Patterson’s famous 4-2-5 defense over six

playing them immediately after two of the

games in which the Longhorns are 1-5.

more important tests on the schedule though

That’s an average of just under 13 points

in 2018.

a game (to TCU’s average of 30) and the average margin of TCU victory in this series

Tom Herman identified Kansas State

is 25 points. We’ll talk about the problems

early on as the main challenger to Texas’

here and the specific 2018 matchup but

chances at being the most physical squad

clearly the Frogs are one of the main

in the league and they addressed them

obstacles between Texas and a return to the

immediately with a 40-34 OT victory in round

top.

one but Bill Snyder’s K-State isn’t going anywhere just yet.

TCU Austin, TX | September 22 Head coach: Gary Patterson 2017 Record: 11-3 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 62-25-1

T

he Frogs are a popular pick to contend in 2018, mainly because they’ve gone

41-13 since they installed the Air Raid in 2014 (26-10 in the B12) with three seasons in which they’ve won 11 games and zero losses to Texas in that time.

Last year their defense finally recovered

Kris Boyd

and the offense leaned on a veteran OL to run the ball while Hill operated under strict “protect the football and scramble a few third downs for us” orders to allow them to play a ball control/defensive approach that put them into the B12 title game. The 2018 Horned Frogs figure to look pretty different. They’re losing four of their six best defenders while the OL is getting reworked after losing four starters.

Their breakthrough on defense in 2017 came partly due to the speed and experience they could field in the defensive backfield with LB/S hybrid Travin Howard and ultra rangy weak safety Nick Orr and then moreso from their DL which featured a DE tandem of Mat Boesen and Ben

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Banogu. Those two combined for 20 sacks

same balance of size, speed, and versatility

and 23 run stuffs. The key was being able

on defense in 2018. For all the talk about

to man the middle with NT Ross Blacklock

their improved talent level as a team,

(6-4, 320) and MLB Ty Summers (6-2,

much of it is focused on offense or in the

230) well enough to field the smaller DEs

underclassmen ranks that tend to need time

(Banogu is 6-4, 240 and Boesen 6-4, 230)

to maturate. They are adding a nickel LB

and then Howard (6-0, 210).

grad transfer from Northern Illinois named Jawuan Johnson that had five INTs, four

They could attack and control the edges

sacks, and 24 run stuffs a year ago that

with DEs that had OLB skill sets and

they’ll probably plug into Howard’s role, so

they had just the right balance of speed

there is a chance this defense is still great

and sturdy size up the middle to allow

and perhaps even as smart as the better

Patterson’s classic 4-2-5 formula and

Patterson units tend to be.

schemes to choke out spread offenses.

Beyond fielding lots of speed, what tends It’s not obvious that the Frogs will nail the

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to set Patterson’s great defenses apart

2018 SCHEDULE from typical units around the country is

downhill, which in turn elongates the period

The OL will be totally rebuilt as well, which

how much of his own considerable football

of time in which Texas’ OL can work their

matters because this team really needs to

knowledge and strategic insights they are

double teams and climb up to TCU’s smaller

be able to execute a QB run game for a

able to absorb. The 2014 and 2017 units

back seven. Pounding the Frog defense is

sophomore Robinson-led O to be particularly

were loaded with multi-year starters that

all about isolating size on speed and this

intimidating or else be able to protect if they

had mastered his wide array of anti-spread

Texas offense is best poised to do that with

turn to the Penn transfer (Michael Collins).

choke holds. Texas’ own limited techniques

RPOs and spread sets that work Lil’Jordan

and schematics over the years as they’ve

Humphrey against their diminutive interior

For all the talk about TCU’s roster talent,

changed out OCs and offenses like Dollar

five in the backfield.

this offense probably doesn’t fit together in a way that leverages all that talent unless

General double AAs have made them into On the other side of the ball, TCU figures

they’re good at blocking the spread run game

to be a much less consistent but much

AND Robinson makes a leap in the Air Raid

The main key to beating this squad is being

more explosive team. Shawn Robinson

passing game. Both are possible, neither are

able to avoid predictable down and distance

replaces Kenny Hill and brings much

close to guaranteed.

situations where Patterson’s master of your

greater explosiveness to the run game and

formational tendencies and the flexibility

the pass game (he’s got a rocket arm) but

This is probably the game where we discover

of his 4-2-5 in sending numbers swarming

also much less knowhow and consistency

whether Texas’ LB corps and DeShon

to where the ball is likely to be focused

throwing the ball. That’s pretty significant

Elliott replacements are up to snuff or not.

becomes overwhelming. Short of just

because they’re going to surround him with

It’s hard to see TCU effectively punishing

overpowering the Frogs with sheer talent,

sophomore Jalen Reagor, Kavontae Turpin,

the Longhorns with their passing game for

you gotta be able and willing to take shots

and probably a redshirted Omar Manning

playing fairly shallow and tight at safety and

down the field on early downs and loosen

out wide, essentially a unit that’s very long

nickel so if the Longhorns are executing

things up.

on athleticism (fastest WR group in the

their run fits and taking good angles on the

league, perhaps) but less so on beating man

ball then they should be able to make this

Those throws force secondary run supporters

coverage and moving the chains on big third

game solely a referendum on whether or not

to show some hesitation before flying

downs.

they’ve learned how to score on Patterson.

really easy marks for Patterson.

KANSAS ST. Manhattan, KS | September 29 Head coach: Bill Snyder 2017 Record: 8-5 | Big XII Series Record: Kansas State leads 10-8 The 2018 Kansas State Wildcats are probably going to be very similar to some of the other Wildcat teams we’ve seen this decade.

Snyder is still there and he’s replaced some of his older, departing assistants like Dana Dimel (now HC at UTEP) and Tom Hayes (retired) with younger, former Wildcat players turned coaches. One area in which this team could be different is team speed, this unit looks more athletic than the squads Texas has been facing particularly in the middle of the field at QB, LB, and S.

Derek Kerstetter

They still haven’t resolved a QB battle

wild when healthy a year ago (Delton) given

between RS sophomore-to-be Skylar

their strength on the OL and lack of go-to

Thompson (think Jake Waters) and Alex

wideouts. Delton would be their most explo-

Delton (think Daniel Sams) but you’d sure

sive running QB since Ell Roberson and is

think that they’d turn to the guy who ran

a savvy operator of their offense who “only”

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2018 SCHEDULE lacks arm talent. Imagine if Case McCoy

K-State QB run schemes if you can tackle.

is the DL where they badly missed Jordan

had less touch on his fade routes but was a

If he can add strength and toughness as a

Willis’ pass rush in 2017 and basically lost

4.6 sprinter and that’s basically what Delton

runner that’s a game changer, as would be

their ability to end drives by pressuring the

offers them. If you leave Dalton Schoen

Delton adding strength and better timing to

QB with a four-man rush.

largely uncovered (as both Texas and OU did

his passing.

a year ago) he can really hurt you. But if you

Rising junior Reggie Walker, who had six

force Delton to the last read on that concept

Meanwhile on defense, the Wildcats

sacks playing opposite Willis as a freshman,

then it’s really iffy if he’ll get there before the

are probably trotting out a LB tandem of

had just two a year ago. They’ll probably

DBs arrive.

Elijah Sullivan and Da’Quan Patton that is

bring him back but pair him with fellow

faster than any combo we’ve seen from the

rising junior Kyle Ball, who’s been a solid

Skylar Thompson can burn teams on plays

Wildcats this decade while they also return

participant in their third down packages but

like that but he’s less effective running the

Denzel Goolsby and Kendall Adams at the

needs to become the next Ryan Mueller

ball through traffic. He likes to bounce things

safety spots.

this offseason. Unless new DC Blake Seiler

to the outside instead of attacking between the tackles.

moves K-State out of their uber-familiar 4-2-5 There are holes here and there in the back-

this season into an odd front with a pressure

field but they may very well prove to be more

package a la 2017 Iowa State, they look like

He’s listed at 205 but looks smaller and

athletic and harder to isolate with precise

they’ll be competent but navigable just like

currently isn’t a threat in the more terrifying

calls in the coming season. The big question

every other year since 2012.

OKLAHOMA Dallas, TX | October 6 Head coach: Lincoln Riley 2017 Record: 12-2 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 61-46-5

I

’ve been carefully constructing a case for why Oklahoma could experience a serious

decline in year two of the Lincoln Riley era for much of this offseason.

The 2017 team was built around an interior group on offense that included five returning starters on the OL, an NFL-caliber flex TE, an ultra-versatile fullback, and then Baker Mayfield.

The defense was horrendous and completely

Lil’ Jordan Humphrey

came apart without Bob Stoops around to offer quality control and all of the aforementioned offensive components are gone save for the two OGs and RT on the OL.

talent resided in underachievers who never

in the Riley offense before splitting off to go

coalesced into a strong unit.

make $5 mill playing baseball.

The defense is starting over with freshmen,

Beyond that, it was obvious that Baker Mayfield was the heart and soul of the entire team and his replacement is Kyler Murray, who’s been splitting time with baseball and

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is now taking a single shot at glory this year

It’s not obvious to me that Murray is going

sophomores, and a trio of juniors that need

to bring half of the things to the table that

to have major breakthroughs in NT Neville

Mayfield brought every day of every week.

Gallimore, Jack OLB Mark Jackson, Jr, and

Meanwhile the defense is losing a serious

WILB Caleb Kelly. They finally moved Kelly

collection of physical talent, even if that

from the ridiculous nickel LB position they

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2018 SCHEDULE were asking him to play at 230 pounds but

down on a DT and up to the backside LB, the

the running teams on the schedule, which

unlike fellow five-star OLB turned inside-

center and playside guard blocking down,

makes Kris Boyd’s final metamorphosis into

backer Malik Jefferson, this season will

and then the backside guard and tackle

a lockdown corner a veritable cheat code for

be Kelly’s first playing the position he was

pulling to kick out and lead.

dominating the 2018 slate. The “Kyler Murray

inevitably going to convert to. Additionally, OU’s LBs haven’t played the inside zone or spread run game in general very well with only a handful of exceptions over the last seven years (since Mike Stoops returned).

An OU recovery on defense looks like Kelly and sophomore Kenneth Murray each making considerable leaps as insidebackers, Neville Gallimore and a player to be named devouring blocks inside, Mark Jackson or else Addison Gumbs replacing Obo Okoronkwo’s considerable pass-rushing skill, another pass-rusher emerging, and then their three new starters at nickel and either safety spot all proving to be savvy spread defenders. In other words, this unit is probably going to suck pretty hard again despite a promising collection of CBs. The floor on offense is much, much higher.

Even if Kyler Murray were to take a hard

Brandon Jones

knock and determine to get out of the gridiron game early it’s hard to see this team

It’s a tough scheme to blitz because it’s hard

to Ceedee Lamb” connection would have to

struggling to run the ball at a high level.

to be confident in where the read-side of the

be operating at a high level to prevent this

play will be and thus to call in the blitz so as

strategy from working out and indeed there

They still have those three good OL returning

to be sure to overload the read-side of the

aren’t many QB/WR connections around the

and lots of depth developed by a very good

play.

league that look imposing enough to stop

coach in Bill Bedenbaugh besides and they

Boyd from freeing up who ever wins the free

still have a deep stable of backs led by

The only team I saw defend it well a year

Rodney Anderson. Here he is running their

ago were the TCU Horned Frogs, who had

best scheme against a very effective defense

OLBs to either end of the formation that were

If OU is terrible on defense again AND Texas

a year ago:

fast enough to attack the mesh point with

can eliminate the blown coverages AND

enough leverage to force Mayfield to give

clamp down on OU’s excellent run game

That GT counter play absolutely murdered

the ball before chasing down the back from

then they’ll win this game in a blowout.

Orlando’s D a year ago. It’s a good bet that

behind. With Murray in that probably gets

was the play Malik Jefferson was writing up

trickier since he’s even quicker than Mayfield

If not, the Longhorns should at least be

on the chalkboard for Orlando to solve during

and Texas doesn’t play a pair of lightning

confident about the fact that they looked to

the RRS a year ago and while that was an

quick ends in a four-down front anyways.

be by far the stronger, tougher, and better

inspiring story, the Longhorns never really figured it out.

safety job from running amok in 2018.

conditioned team a year ago. The Sooners This year Texas needs to work on solving

pushed out Jerry Schmidt in order to hire

that play from the base defense, by spilling

Bennie Wylie, who didn’t exactly oversee

It’s extremely challenging because the

the ball with the LBs and relying on team

the development of a particularly strong,

Sooners can run it in a wide variety of

speed and shallow safeties (daring Murray

tough, or well conditioned Texas team back

different ways and break all of their own

to throw down the field) in order to keep it

in the day so there’s good reason to believe

tendencies by adding different QB keeper

corralled.

Yancy McKnight can be a trump card in this

or pass options to the basic design or even

traditionally hard-hitting and emotional game.

running it for the QB himself. The heart of

You may have noticed that aggressive safety

the scheme is the playside tackle crashing

play is likely to be a key next year with all of

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2018 SCHEDULE

OPPORTUNITIES

obvious point on the schedule for Texas to

any injuries. It also be very important for

rest and recuperate and for Todd Orlando

the coaching staff as they aim to position

After Texas’ “gauntlet” stretch where they

to figure out what his best combinations of

the team to rack up wins against a friendlier

players and tactics are for handling Mike

scheduling draw in the cold weather months.

face TCU, K-State on the road, and then OU in Dallas without a break, comes a much

Gundy, Dana Holgorsen, and the back half of

more favorable stretch.

the schedule.

They draw Baylor in Austin, a bye week, and

That bye week will likely be huge on the

features but also a lot of fatal flaws that

recovery front as Texas is going to struggle

probably preclude them from serious B12

to get through USC and the gauntlet without

contention.

then they face Oklahoma State on the road and West Virginia back in Austin. This is the

These three teams, as you’ll see, are mostly notable for having a few impressive offense

BAYLOR Austin, TX | October 13 Head coach: Matt Rhule 2017 Record: 1-11 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 77-26-4 One of the big issues that Art Briles had at Baylor was recruiting top level DL to Waco.

He had one big recruiting win when they signed nose tackle Andrew Billings only to throw up his hands three years later when he left early for the NFL and consider a move to a three-down defense.

Some of their other attempts to bring in needed talent along the DL brought aboard characters like Shawn Oakman (transferred from Penn State), Sam Ukwuachu

PJ Locke

(transferred from Boise State), Jeremy Faulk (JUCO transfer), etc. Sometimes that worked

Lewis and Tyrone Hunt, but they have real

championship team had only garnered an

out okay, other times it helped contribute

issues at DE where they’re hoping A&M

SMU offer before Rhule came down and

to the scandal that took down the entire

transfer James Lockhart can help.

quickly scooped him up.

program.

Rhule helped the current dime revolution

Brewer eventually won the job and threw

Anyways, Briles didn’t leave much in the

along from his seat in Philly with some

for 1,562 yards at 6.6 YPA with an 11-4

cupboard there for Matt Rhule which is a

3-2-6 and 4-1-6 packages that helped

TD-to-INT ratio. He showed the full spread

problem because Rhule’s Temple defenses

Temple reach back-to-back AAC title game

QB skill set, executing some zone-read and

were built around NFL DL like Matt Ioannidis,

appearances. The issue for Baylor is that

scrambling while showing the ability to be

Haason Reddick, and Praise Martin-Oguike.

both packages leaned on playmakers up

accurate in the RPO game or on dropback

Rhule’s second year Temple D made a

front that could control the line of scrimmage.

passes. If Shane Buechele was quicker and

sizable leap from finishing 115th in S&P+

sturdier, he’d be Charlie Brewer.

to ranking 11th. However, they already

Meanwhile the Baylor offense looks a

had Ioannidis, Martin-Oguike, and LB Tyler

lot more promising. Charlie Brewer was

They’re surrounding him with Denzel Mims,

Matakevich on their team and there aren’t

probably the last overlooked Lake Travis

a brilliant outside receiver that Art Briles left

many obvious talents like that in Waco. They

QB, whose 77% completion percentage

behind, and are also bringing in Tennessee

have some DTs that are promising, like Ira

and 54-3 TD-to-INT ratio as a senior for a

transfer Jalen Hurd.

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2018 Season Preview

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2018 SCHEDULE With Hurd imagine if Chris Warren was much

Jake Fuhrmorgen to play LT, the position he

didn’t totally plummet in 2017 and has talent

quicker, could stay at 230 easily, and had

played for the 2016 Clemson runner-ups.

in place to be strong in 2018. They just don’t

embraced his proper position rather than

match up that well with Texas or the rest

heading off to the NFL. They’re making the

The rest of the line are returning starters from

of the league because it’s hard to see the

former Vol into a WR and it’s anyone’s guess

last year’s struggle bus unit, but there’s some

pieces, depth, or experience on defense to

whether his freakish athleticism and size will

potential that converted TE Sam Tecklenburg

make good on Rhule’s elaborate systems.

translate to route running or not.

and former Texas target Xavier Newman

Texas should be able to lean on them with

could be much better here in year two.

the run game in the fourth quarter while

Between all the wideouts and a versatile

playing with a lead enabled by their ability to

RB room this could be a legitimately scary

Rhule was smart about embracing RPOs and

offense, their problems mostly center on the

spread sets at Baylor rather than attempting

OL. Rhule welcomed in Clemson transfer

a total schematic overhaul of their offense

bring pressure against Baylor’s unproven OL.

OKLAHOMA STATE Stillwater, OK | October 27 Head coach: Mike Gundy 2017 Record: 10-3 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 24-8

Y

ou don’t really want to just count out Mike Gundy’s Cowboys, this team is

always well coached and they have a lot left to work with on offense despite losing a pair of WRs and a QB that would be starting for most teams around the country.

The 2017 unit had absurd balance across

Malcolm Roach (32) and Breckyn Hager (44)

their skill talent with Marcell Ateman and James Washington outside while they had

walk-on Taylor Cornelius but they have

the S/LB guys that OSU had been playing

more good inside guys than they could find

Hawaii grad transfer Dru Brown arriving this

at their “star” linebacker position. Of course

room for on the field between RBs Justice

summer who could make a major difference.

now the adjustment everyone needs to make

Hill and J.D. King, FBs Britton Abbott and

is using those S/LB hybrids in lieu of a DE or

Sione Finefeuiaki, slots Jalen McCleskey

It seems very likely that OSU will be highly

(2016’s MOTP) and Dillon Stoner, and then

effective on offense again in 2018 even if

5-star LSU transfer Tyron Johnson also

they can’t quite stretch the field like they did

Another issue is that their DB room is

trying to find snaps. Everyone I just listed

in 2017.

somewhat young and unproven, particularly

is back except Ateman, Washington, and of course QB Mason Rudolph.

ILB but maybe Knowles will figure that out.

at safety where they’re leaning on Kenneth Their defense looked like the ‘85 Bears

Edison-McGruder (played star LB last year)

against Texas but gave up over 60 points

and true sophomores Malcolm Rodriguez

The OL is returning three experienced

to Oklahoma and limited OSU’s ceiling to

and Thabo Mwaniki.

interior OL while looking for some tackles

another 10-3 season, costing DC Glenn

amongst various young candidates but you

Spencer his job.

I was a fan of all three coming out of high

figure they’ll probably lean on Justice Hill in the run game where possible.

QB is currently manned by 6-foot-6, former

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school but playing young guys or position They hired Duke’s Jim Knowles to update

change guys at all three safety spots in the

their defense to a base 4-2-5 nickel that

B12 doesn’t seem like a recipe for a big

utilizes more of a CB/S hybrid rather than

breakthrough. They do have both starting

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2018 SCHEDULE CBs back from a year ago but they’ll need to

much less explosive than a year ago on

offense should be able to test how well the

show they can handle Knowles’ aggressive

offense without having the time or means to

Longhorns are handling run/pass conflicts in

press schemes.

really clean up their act on defense enough

the middle of the field with Hill back and all of

to make up for it. Given how close the

these explosive receivers returning.

Their DL is going to be entirely manned by

second and third tier Big 12 teams tend to be

RS seniors, save for Darrion Daniels who’s a

to one another that could make a real decline

OSU may be one of the scarier RPO teams

true senior, but one of them needs to emerge

for the Cowboys into the 7-6 range.

Texas faces next year even if that’s all the

as a real pass-rushing threat.

‘Pokes prove to be particularly adept at. If the For Texas, this is still a fairly tough matchup

Texas defense isn’t on title-winning form by

Their LBs will be similarly experienced and

simply because the Cowboys have veterans

this point in the season this game could be

sturdy and this team might be difficult to

backed up by big Edison-McGruder at safety

trouble.

run against but this looks like a unit that

that have played for a long time and could be

will struggle to get off the field or to hold up

hard to drive off the ball.

against good passing attacks.

Texas will need to throw the ball around It all adds up to a team that will likely be

to really get after this team. The Cowboy

WEST VIRGINIA Austin, TX | November 3 Head coach: Dana Holgorsen 2017 Record: 7-6 | Big XII Series Record: W. Virginia leads 4-3 The Mountaineers are a popular dark horse pick for winning the Big 12 title this season.

QB Will Grier’s finger is back together and healed after it got snapped when he dove for the pylon against Texas and his favorite red zone target David Sills is also back.

I was one of a few that liked West Virginia’s chances of putting together a strong season because I knew that the Aggies were wrong about OC Jake Spavital and that Grier and

Daniel Young

desiring more playing time just before the

The big question for this team is whether or

Mountaineers welcomed a pair of transfer DL

not the D will hold up their end of the deal.

offense was going to prove very deadly.

from USC (former 5-star DT Kenny Bigelow)

Assuming the transfers and improvements

and Clemson (Jabril Robinson). Despite that

amongst returning players up front along

I also figured their defense could probably

setback, there’s little doubt that turning WVU

the DL allows them to play at a passable

into “transfer U” has been a huge net positive

level, there are still questions at CB and in

for the Mountaineers.

the secondary at large which carries a lot

his plus+ arm in the Spavital/Holgorsen

handle turning over much of their lineup because they’d already done so the prior year and had lots of older guys to plug in. It

of responsibilities in Tony Gibson’s 3-3-5 The offense will be no joke, that much is

defense. I dubbed them the “all or nothing”

the years finally caught up to them.

obvious given the level of returning talent

defense a few years back for the way they

they have at the QB and skill positions

embraced the extremes of spread offense by

Interestingly enough their best player

combined with the effect of returning four

combining lots of drop eight coverages with

starters on the OL.

zero blitzes.

turned out that their thin DL recruiting over

up front, freshman nose tackle Lamont McDougle, transferred after spring

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2018 SCHEDULE They haven’t had the DBs to pull that off of

designed to protect the secondary from

a leap of improvement, then a strong start by

late and have instead focused on playing

overload vertical concepts.

Texas could make this into a game with Big 12 title game implications.

off coverage, three-deep stuff with rotating eight man fronts trying to get numbers where

But Texas has to be able to stop the run from

needed. That could be more effective in

that look, meaning that the robber safety has

This is where that bye week for Texas

2018 when they have their smaller LBs and

to be on point all day or that the nose tackle

could show up in a major way, in the form

safeties firing downhill behind a DL that isn’t

and LBs need to be ready to dominate the

of a precise and well drilled dime package

being blown off the ball.

West Virginia OL between the tackles.

by Orlando that can balance the needs to

The bigger concern for Texas though will be

This is the one game on the schedule where

in building defenses to handle the extreme

Texas’ hopes of being able to lean on the

stress that West Virginia can create by

secondary to hold up without dropping extra

If the defense is playing at the level everyone

combining deep routes and wide screens

guys deep are not strong.

expects and the offense has elevated to the

handle West Virginia’s deep passing attack with their ability to run the ball.

point of being able to consistently drop 30 or

with their run game in Art Briles fashion.

Between Grier’s arm, experience, and a WR

more on bad B12 Ds then this stretch may

The West Virginia offense these days is very

corps that returns a 1k yard receiver, and

not be too bad.

similar to the Jared Goff and Davis Webb-led

then a guy with 980 receiving yards and 18

Cal units that torched Texas (same OC, Jake

TDs, there’s too much to try and lock down

This is the quintessential B12 stretch of the

Spavital) in 2015 and 2016.

with man coverage.

schedule, featuring teams with extremely

The best solution is probably the dime

If West Virginia’s offense is as deadly as it

withstand the kind of Texas team Herman is

package with lots of two-robber coverages

appears it will be and the defense has made

trying to build.

dangerous offenses but too many flaws to

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W E D O N ATE

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2018 SCHEDULE

THE HOME STRETCH

Tech looked like the game that was going to

sas standing in their way, a pair of road trips

secure the sixth win whereas West Virginia

sandwiching a home date with the Iowa State

The stretch run of the 2017 season was

would be too tough. Instead the Longhorns

Cyclones that has the potential to be the

important for what it meant about Texas’ bowl eligibility. Heading into the last three games of the year, Tom Herman’s Longhorns were 4-5 and hosting Kansas before heading to West Virginia and then hosting Texas Tech.

Most were penciling in Kansas as a win despite the disaster that was Charlie Strong’s trip to Lawrence in 2016, and figured Texas

beat West Virginia on the road before blow-

most consequential game that the Longhorn

ing it at home in spectacular fashion against

Network has ever televised. Tech appears

the Red Raiders.

to be a dead man walking while Kansas will likely have already fired their coach by the

The hope is that Texas will enter the final

time Texas comes to town. Iowa State has

quadrant of the 2018 schedule looking to

potential to contend for the league title.

lock down a trip to the Big 12 title game.

Once again they have Texas Tech and Kan-

TEXAS TECH Lubbock, TX | November 10 Head coach: Kliff Kingsbury 2017 Record: 6-7 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 50-17

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he conventional wisdom on this Tech team is that they are falling apart on

offense after a lackluster (for them) 2017 season and having to try and plug in uncertain characters into pivotal offensive roles while bringing back the core of a strong (for them) defensive unit.

In reality, the Red Raiders were 25th nationally in S&P+ last year -- a measure of offensive efficiency, one slot worse than the highest rated Texas offense of this entire

Jerrod Heard

decade (the 2012 team that finished 24th).

Because the Longhorns have routinely had enough DB depth to use nickel and dime packages to thwart Kliff Kingsbury’s machinations, Longhorn fans have somewhat lacked an appreciation for how difficult that has been for everyone else. For instance, in Kingsbury’s five-year run they’ve averaged 28.2 points per game against

in a “shoot, we gotta stop something!”

While they are turning over four of their top

moment for DC David Gibbs. This only

five receivers and QB Nic Shimonek, the

produced a finish of 88th in defensive S&P+

entire OL is back and they are plugging

because stopping the run in the Big 12 is

in redshirted Kingsbury recruits at every

less important than stopping the pass, but

wide receiver position (unless West Texan

they did manage to rack up some turnovers.

freshman Myller Royals wins a starting job).

Whether or not they have success this year

The Raiders’ “rush-backer” Kolin Hill had

largely depends on whether Kingsbury is

DB-strapped Sooners.

two sacks a year ago and they lacked the

effective at teaching McLane Carter or Jett

personnel on the back end to hold up while

Duffey to be effective throwing the ball to

Their defense is returning a lot of truly solid

maintaining numbers around the box to stop

systemized targets behind a veteran OL.

the run, particularly without help from a pass

In other words, Tech is going to continue to

rush. This defense is not likely to be that

score a ton of points.

Texas and 34.6 points per game against the

players. They have plus run defenders at nickel (Justus Parker), safety (Jah’Shawn Jamison), linebacker (Jordyn Brooks and Dakota Allen), and strongside end (Eli Howard). However, they determined in 2017 to commit to stuffing the run as a philosophy

intimidating for a team that can throw the football around.

You figure Kingsbury is probably in need of eight wins to preserve his job status

The offense is likely to be much better

after failing to win eight games any season

than prognostications are suggesting.

after his inaugural run in 2013. Their non-

2018 Season Preview

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2018 SCHEDULE conference schedule includes depleted Ole

QB run RPOs that made Johnny Manziel so

and willingness to pound away at dime

Miss, Briles-izing Houston, and Lamar so it’s

deadly back in 2012.

packages playing behind tiny, pass-rushers

going to be pretty tough for Raid bro to pull it off.

up front then that’s a whole ‘nother ballgame.

We’ll revisit this game after the dust of the first nine games has settled but Texas could

History has shown that the best way to

It seems that their big adjustment to realize

very well be traveling to Lubbock to take on

consistently beat Tech is not to shut them

this vision was hiring Kevin Johns from

a desperate Kingsbury team fighting for their

down with great defense, although that’s not

Western Michigan to bring a stronger

coach’s job.

impossible, but to blow their doors off with

run game and perhaps counter-balance

your own offense.

Kingsbury’s disposition to try to chuck his

Such a team would be unafraid to take shots

way out of facing dime defenses. What might

all day long and have to be treated with care,

Texas needs the passing game humming

actually save them is the ability of either Jett

particularly 6-6 wideout T.J. Vasher who

for this contest and then obviously for Sam

Duffey or former Kris Boyd championship

torched Texas for 147 yards and a score on

Ehlinger (or whoever’s at QB) to be making

teammate McLane Carter to run the ball and

five catches a year ago. That’s bad enough

sound decisions down the stretch when

allow Kingsbury to get back to some of the

but if the Raiders actually have a run game

facing a worn down Raider D.

IOWA STATE Austin, TX | November 17 Head coach: Matt Campbell 2017 Record: 8-5 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 13-2

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his is it, probably the most important game that LHN will ever televise, save

perhaps for the ramifications of Charlie’s fiasco in Lawrence back in 2016. It’s going to be absolutely hilarious to see the reactions both on the part of B12 fans and the LHN commentators if everyone is forced to tune into the Longhorn channel in order to watch a game that could determine who gets into the conference title game.

Last year Texas drew Iowa State early in the year, their first contest of the Big 12 conference slate, and barely escaped with a 17-7 win after being caught by surprise when the Cyclones unveiled their 3-3-5 dime package for the first time of the year. That was an important moment for the entire league as it basically ended the Jacob Park experiment and led to Kyle Kempt’s elevation to the starting role at Iowa State. It also influenced Todd Orlando to develop and deploy the 3-2-6 “lightning” package that tore the league apart. Iowa State went 4-0 after that game starting with an upset win over Oklahoma and culminating in a victory over TCU before they finally lost three games

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Kris Boyd

on the back half to West Virginia (by four), Oklahoma State (by seven), and Kansas State (by one).

(6-5, 222 pounds) and Hakeem Butler (6-6, 219 pounds) combined to catch 112 balls for

The Cyclones were about as good as anyone in the conference last year. This was largely due to their ability to play defense, which always sets a team apart in the Big 12, but they were no slouches on offense either. Kyle Kempt proved highly adept at distributing the ball around to their sneakily dominant skill players. David Montgomery ran for 1,146 yards by sheer force of will and

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athleticism while big targets Allen Lazard

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1638 yards and 17 TDs. Lazard is gone now, to be replaced by Butler moving to his outside spot and the Cyclones are also losing a veteran left side to their OL in Jake Campos and Robby Garcia. Those are substantial losses, but they’re also starting to plug in Campbell recruits along the OL and have a developing collection of burners they’re going to utilize inside such as

2018 SCHEDULE Deshaunte Jones and Kene Nwangwu. The

they can run on honest numbers and make

and Spears regularly beats tough angles

name of the game for the Cyclone offense is

DCs start to sort through difficult questions in

from blockers to make tackles. You can get a

to run the ball and throw it around off RPOs,

their game planning sessions.

good sense of how their team speed, Spears’

play-action, and spread tricks for isolating

play in the box, and free-hitting safeties can

their top receivers. It’s a similar offense to

The defense is also losing a fair amount,

the one Tom Herman is building at Texas but

including senior DE J.D. Waggoner, MLB

cause problems here:

Kempt is more of a manager contrasted with

Joel Lanning, and then all three starting

Obviously this wasn’t an easy matchup for

Ehlinger’s hero-ball and their inside zone

safeties from their crucial back end.

Texas a year ago and surely won’t be any

blocking schemes are oriented more around

However, they had to take on explosive

easier in 2018. Both teams played styles on

angles and pulling than Texas’ straight ahead

Memphis in the bowl game without those

defense a year ago designed to encourage

approach.

safeties and held the Tigers to 20 points.

their opponent to run the ball into the meat

Now they add highly promising JUCO

grinder and both teams have big, matchup

While it’s not a big narrative around the

transfer and former Ole Miss recruit Greg

problem targets in the passing game that

league, one of the most important subplots

Eisworth to the safety group and his spring

everyone struggles to match up against in

to the 2018 Big 12 season is whether or

received rave reports. Returning LBs Willie

coverage. This contest may come down to

not Campbell’s OL makes a leap. There are

Harvey (their nickel LB) and Marcel Spears

which team’s budding OL is ready to control

more than enough weapons and knowhow

are @Scipio Tex ’s favorite LB tandem for a

a game.

in Ames to make this a really good offense if

reason, Harvey is fantastic on the perimeter

KANSAS Lawrence, KS | November 23 Head coach: David Beaty 2017 Record: 1-11 | Big XII Series Record: Texas leads 14-3

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here’s a very good chance that David Beatty will have already been fired by

the time Texas rolls into Lawrence for this contest. The Jayhawks are going to be bad again. Their OL is losing cerebral field general Mesa Ribordy (center) after he retired due to concussions and they really weren’t particularly stout or cohesive before

John Burt

he had to depart.

The Kansas skill talent is good, most everyone in this conference has good to great skill talent, but they’ve lacked both blocking from the OL and distribution from the QB. This offense essentially has zero infrastructure. It’s amazing that they can’t seem to find a QB to get up there and fling the ball around but commentators covering glass houses probably shouldn’t throw stones.

When you rattle off the list of names on this defense, they look more impressive than they play. DL Daniel Wise is a legit player up front that will be playing for a contract

and LB Joe Dineen is good at reaching the ball playing behind their stunts at depth. All that amounted to a team ranking of 64th in rushing S&P+ and 104th overall. Now they’re losing DE Dorance Armstrong, who was a dark horse B12 DPOY candidate a year ago only to finish with just 1.5 sacks (but 17 run stuffs).

The Jayhawk D tends to work out as a boom or bust approach, either stopping up the run near the line of scrimmage on a stunt or freehitting Dineen or safety coming up, or else getting torched when the run breaks contain

Presumably Texas will be facing a beaten down squad at year’s end that may not be up for trying to keep Hager or Omenihu from hitting 10 sacks or looking to hold up to a Calvin Anderson/Patrick Vahe double team.

This should be a win-padding game for Texas and the chance for some of their older players to shake off the PTSD of losing in that stadium to close out 2016.

Hopefully this will also be a chance for Texas to rest up and prepare for the B12 title game.

or the offense throws the ball.

2018 Season Preview

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