5 Things to Watch For: Texas vs. Wyoming
With a big matchup in Lubbock looming next week for the Texas Longhorns, head coach Mack Brown better be ready to show no mercy in preparing his team for Wyoming. Clearly, the offense looked inconsistent last week versus Rice, and if Greg Davis and the offensive units can’t get their stuff together, the Horns could be facing a season-defining loss against Texas Tech next week. Here’s five things to watch for as Texas prepares for Wyoming this Saturday.
1. Will Greg Davis let Garrett Gilbert be a quarterback this week?
Last week, Gilbert was nothing more than a bus driver. He wasn’t asked to make plays down the field. He wasn’t asked to audile based on coverage. He wasn’t asked to be the focal point of the offense. Basically, he wasn’t asked to do any of the things Texas asked him to do in the BCS title game after Colt McCoy’s injury. His play in that game indicated he could handle the pressure. So what does Texas do his first game as a starter? Focus on the run. On an ineffective run at that. GG should be utilizing his NFL caliber arm to get the ball downfield to some of the fastest WRs in the nation, instead of handing the ball off to the likes of Cody Johnson for a 3 yard gain. Davis needs to open up the offense. This is a kid who ran the spread to perfection in high school (he owns most Texas state passing records and 2 state titles), so why not let him show what he can do? This is the week to make Gilbert comfortable in an offense that certainly can’t be as bland as the game called against Rice – because if that is the game plan from Davis for the 2010 season, expect some disappointed Texas fans. And a disappointed QB.
2. Will the defense force turnovers?
Much has been made of the 2 INTs that were dropped by Aaron Williams and Chykie Brown against Rice. The Longhorns forced 2 turnovers against the Owls, but those two picks that were dropped played a major factor in Texas’s subpar victory. Add an easy 14 points from the INTs to the final, and there may be less talk about the ineffective Texas running game, and more talk about another dominate D from Will Muschamp. The difference between 2008 and 2009 on defense was turnovers – they didn’t force enough in ’08, but led the country last year. To help soften the load on the offensive unit, the Texas D needs to come up with more turnovers. Gimmes like the ones dropped by Williams and Brown may not cost Texas against teams like Wyoming or Rice – but they will certainly hinder them when they face Tech, OU, and Nebraska.
3. Will the special teams be special? Or will they ride the special bus again?
The weak link against Rice was clearly the play of the special teams. They missed two field goals (one was blocked) and muffed a punt inside the Rice 20 yard line that set up the Owls last score. If Texas wants to compete for a Big 12 crown, they will have to be much better in the special teams game. Think of 2008 – Jordan Shipley turned the game against OU around by taking a kickoff back 96 yards when Texas trailed by 11 and seemed to be overmatched. Last year, Nebraska made a huge special teams gaffe when they kicked off to Texas with under 2 minutes to go in the Big 12 title game – the kick went out of bounds, giving the Longhorns the ball on their own 40 yard line. Texas won both games, and the play of the special teams was instrumental in each victory. The Longhorns have been one of the best in the country on special teams for the past decade (they lead the country in blocked kicks since 2000) – in 2009 they returned 2 KOs for touchdowns, one of which saved the game against Texas A&M. Shipley was a master at turning games around with his nose for the endzone on punt returns. Hunter Lawrence was the most accurate place kicker in Longhorn history. Texas will need to find a way to replace these points and production if they are going to win the close games in 2010, and nothing about the Rice game gave UT fans confidence these holes have been filled.
4. Can the running game get going?
The magic question for 2010. Tre Newton will get the start ahead of Cody Johnson. Newton, Fozzy Whitaker, and Johnson will split carries again. The 3 headed monster racked up 179 yards against Rice, but there were no break away runs. Basically, Texas pounded the ball, and pounded the ball, and pounded the ball until finally they had racked up enough yards to look respectable. The longest play from scrimmage running the ball was 18 yards. This won’t get it done. Texas needs to find a way to have more explosive plays on offense with the running game, or else teams will be able to clamp down on the offense Greg Davis seems intent on running in 2010. There can be no legitimate NFL style offense, with play action and deep passes, if safeties and defenses don’t respect the home run threat out of the backfield. Nothing any of the Texas players did against Rice shows the Horns have this threat, either based on the running of the backs, or the blocking of the line and receivers downfield. If they are insistent on running the ball in 2010, the Texas coaches better be insistent on finding a scheme and the players to do it effectively.
5. What is the intensity level of the Texas Longhorns?
Look, Texas doesn’t need a team of Rah-Rah cheerleaders. The Pom Squad, Cheerleaders, HellRaisers, and all the other Texas spirit groups will take care of that. But both Mack Brown and Greg Davis commented this week that the Texas sideline wasn’t enthusiastic enough for their taste. The emotion seemed to be lacking. Perhaps it was playing an inferior opponent, and guys just can’t get excited for games they’ll win on talent alone. Attitudes like this will result in losses when Conference play starts. And it will certainly cost them next week at Texas Tech. Let’s see if there is fire on the Texas sideline this Saturday.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
CFN Big 12 Week 2 Game Picks
Big 12 WEEK 2 Picks
Oklahoma vs Florida State
The game of the week in the Big 12 brings the Seminoles into Normal for a rematch of the 2000 BCS National Championship. Oklahoma showed they have work to do in the secondary last week. If they haven’t shored up the mistakes from the Utah State, OU will struggle with FSU’s Christian Ponder and a tough, experienced offensive line. OU hasn’t lost in Norman in 31 games. The Seminoles change this in a shoot-out, 35-31.
Nebraska vs Idaho
Taylor Martinez will start his second game for Nebraska. Idaho can score in bunches, but this is still expected to be one of the top defenses in the country. The secondary should have a good test against the Vandals, who passed for over 300 yards a game in 2009. Still, the Cornhuskers come away with a resounding win, 42-7.
Colorado at California
Colorado gets a preview of life in the Pac-10. They won’t like it anymore than life in the Big 12. Last week was a fluke against an embarrassing Colorado State team. We’ll find out that CU will be no better off in the Pac-10 than they are in the Big 12. California wins easily, 35-10.
Iowa State at Iowa
Iowa State was impressive in handling a very good Northern Illinois team last week. This week marks the first of numerous tests for the Cyclones. Paul Rhoads remains one of the most underrated coaches in the Big 12, and will have his team in the game against a Big 10 contender in Iowa. Rivalry games are weird (see Texas and Texas A&M from 2009), and anything can happen. If Iowa sticks to a Big 10 gameplan (run the ball and put me to sleep), then ISU has a chance if they can keep in close. Iowa pulls out the victory, but it will be closer than people think, 27-17.
Missouri State at Kansas State
FCS opponents vs Kansas State – seems about right. The Wildcats live on these opponents, and it cost them a bowl appearance last year. KSU wins easily – no analysis is warranted when you play teams from the FCS: 38-10.
Georgia Tech at Kansas
Turner Gil has been speaking about the positives following last week’s 6-3 loss. Instead of welcoming an easy win into Lawrence, his Jayhawks will face the triple wishbone offense of Georgia Tech, the ACC Champion of 2009. The Yellow Jackets should run all over a weak Jayhawks defense. Assuming Kansas’s offense hasn’t improved in 7 days, this could get ugly quickly. KU’s only hope is Georgia Tech fails to wake up for an early morning start…don’t bet on it. Georgia Tech hands Gil his 2nd loss in as many games, 28-3.
McNeese State at Missouri
Mizzou playing an FCS team? Fine. They’ll win – 52-10.
Buffalo at Baylor
Baylor needs this win to establish some winning credentials as they shoot for a bowl game in 2010. Unlike last year, they don’t need Robert Griffin III to go down with injury early in the season. Because of this, Briles will pull RG3 early, and Buffalo will make the score appear closer than it really is. Baylor wins, 31-20.
Troy at Oklahoma State
Kendall Hunter wowed folks last week with 257 yards rushing in the new OSU spread. It seems Mike Gundy’s play calling replacement knew what strings to pull. OSU will continue to impress on their way to a September 25 showdown with Texas A&M. Hunter couldn’t be stopped by WSU, he won’t be slowed up by Troy. KH runs for over 150 yards, and Okie State wins easily, 42-14.
Wyoming at Texas
They’ll need to establish a consistent running game and find out what Garrett Gilbert can do passing the ball before heading to Texas Tech next week, so don’t expect Texas to go easy on Wyoming, even after learning of the death of one of the Cowboys’ players this week. A subpar performance versus Rice had UT coaches making some running back changes and questioning the fire of their players – those questions will be answered Saturday. GG tosses over for over 225 yards and 2 TD’s, while the running game breaks out with Tre Newton topping 100 yards this week. The defense will be stout, and may well pitch a shutout. Texas wins before Lubbock, 55-10.
La Tech at Texas A&M
The Aggies welcome the 2nd weak opponent of the season, but at least LaTech is an FBS school. Jerrod Johnson and Christian Michael appeared to pick up where they left off in 2009 last week against SFA, piling up 49 points. It will be impossible to gauge the strides made on the defensive side of the ball until that OSU game, but beating up on weaker opponents is a good way to build confidence in a unit that sorely needed it after the 2009 defensive debacle. Aggies win 42-9.
Texas Tech at New Mexico
TTU almost blew it against SMU. Don’t expect the same thing against a New Mexico team that gave up 59 points last week. In the first half. Taylor Potts may throw for 300 yards before halftime, giving us a chance to see backup Sticks Sheffield this week. Tech will build confidence as they prepare to welcome Texas next week. TTU 66-10.
Oklahoma vs Florida State
The game of the week in the Big 12 brings the Seminoles into Normal for a rematch of the 2000 BCS National Championship. Oklahoma showed they have work to do in the secondary last week. If they haven’t shored up the mistakes from the Utah State, OU will struggle with FSU’s Christian Ponder and a tough, experienced offensive line. OU hasn’t lost in Norman in 31 games. The Seminoles change this in a shoot-out, 35-31.
Nebraska vs Idaho
Taylor Martinez will start his second game for Nebraska. Idaho can score in bunches, but this is still expected to be one of the top defenses in the country. The secondary should have a good test against the Vandals, who passed for over 300 yards a game in 2009. Still, the Cornhuskers come away with a resounding win, 42-7.
Colorado at California
Colorado gets a preview of life in the Pac-10. They won’t like it anymore than life in the Big 12. Last week was a fluke against an embarrassing Colorado State team. We’ll find out that CU will be no better off in the Pac-10 than they are in the Big 12. California wins easily, 35-10.
Iowa State at Iowa
Iowa State was impressive in handling a very good Northern Illinois team last week. This week marks the first of numerous tests for the Cyclones. Paul Rhoads remains one of the most underrated coaches in the Big 12, and will have his team in the game against a Big 10 contender in Iowa. Rivalry games are weird (see Texas and Texas A&M from 2009), and anything can happen. If Iowa sticks to a Big 10 gameplan (run the ball and put me to sleep), then ISU has a chance if they can keep in close. Iowa pulls out the victory, but it will be closer than people think, 27-17.
Missouri State at Kansas State
FCS opponents vs Kansas State – seems about right. The Wildcats live on these opponents, and it cost them a bowl appearance last year. KSU wins easily – no analysis is warranted when you play teams from the FCS: 38-10.
Georgia Tech at Kansas
Turner Gil has been speaking about the positives following last week’s 6-3 loss. Instead of welcoming an easy win into Lawrence, his Jayhawks will face the triple wishbone offense of Georgia Tech, the ACC Champion of 2009. The Yellow Jackets should run all over a weak Jayhawks defense. Assuming Kansas’s offense hasn’t improved in 7 days, this could get ugly quickly. KU’s only hope is Georgia Tech fails to wake up for an early morning start…don’t bet on it. Georgia Tech hands Gil his 2nd loss in as many games, 28-3.
McNeese State at Missouri
Mizzou playing an FCS team? Fine. They’ll win – 52-10.
Buffalo at Baylor
Baylor needs this win to establish some winning credentials as they shoot for a bowl game in 2010. Unlike last year, they don’t need Robert Griffin III to go down with injury early in the season. Because of this, Briles will pull RG3 early, and Buffalo will make the score appear closer than it really is. Baylor wins, 31-20.
Troy at Oklahoma State
Kendall Hunter wowed folks last week with 257 yards rushing in the new OSU spread. It seems Mike Gundy’s play calling replacement knew what strings to pull. OSU will continue to impress on their way to a September 25 showdown with Texas A&M. Hunter couldn’t be stopped by WSU, he won’t be slowed up by Troy. KH runs for over 150 yards, and Okie State wins easily, 42-14.
Wyoming at Texas
They’ll need to establish a consistent running game and find out what Garrett Gilbert can do passing the ball before heading to Texas Tech next week, so don’t expect Texas to go easy on Wyoming, even after learning of the death of one of the Cowboys’ players this week. A subpar performance versus Rice had UT coaches making some running back changes and questioning the fire of their players – those questions will be answered Saturday. GG tosses over for over 225 yards and 2 TD’s, while the running game breaks out with Tre Newton topping 100 yards this week. The defense will be stout, and may well pitch a shutout. Texas wins before Lubbock, 55-10.
La Tech at Texas A&M
The Aggies welcome the 2nd weak opponent of the season, but at least LaTech is an FBS school. Jerrod Johnson and Christian Michael appeared to pick up where they left off in 2009 last week against SFA, piling up 49 points. It will be impossible to gauge the strides made on the defensive side of the ball until that OSU game, but beating up on weaker opponents is a good way to build confidence in a unit that sorely needed it after the 2009 defensive debacle. Aggies win 42-9.
Texas Tech at New Mexico
TTU almost blew it against SMU. Don’t expect the same thing against a New Mexico team that gave up 59 points last week. In the first half. Taylor Potts may throw for 300 yards before halftime, giving us a chance to see backup Sticks Sheffield this week. Tech will build confidence as they prepare to welcome Texas next week. TTU 66-10.
CFN Big 12 Power Rankings Week 2
The Big 12 Inglorious Blog will rank all 12 Big 12 teams each week. The rankings will be based on the performance of the season up to the most previous game. This week is the first rankings – no preseason ranks will be used.
1. Nebraska – The Cornhuskers may have given up more rushing yards than Coach Bo Pelini would like against an inferior team, but beating anyone by 39 points is a good way to start the year. Pelini may have found a solution to the most important question in Lincoln for 2010 – who’s going to be the quarterback? With Taylor Martinez running the zone read offense to perfection, accumulating over 100 yards rushing and passing, Nebraska was able to move the ball with relative ease. Putting up any type of offense for the Cornhuskers could spell trouble for the rest of the Big 12.
2. Texas – Doubling up Rice is nothing to write home to mom about. The Texas offense looked lost at times, but still rolled up almost 200 yards rushing. The defense was its expected dominant unit, holding the Owls under 200 total yards. Save a few lucky bounces and some poor special teams play on a punt, Texas would have yielded just one field goal to their Houston bretheren. If the offense can work out some kinks, this unit still has the talent to win the conference.
3. Oklahoma – Much like their hated rivals from Austin, OU struggled with an inferior opponent. QB Landry Jones completed less than 50% of his passes, and the retooled Sooner secondary looked lost until the last defensive stand, where they intercepted Utah State on a final drive to seal the win.
4. Missouri – Without Derrick Washington in the backfield, Missouri struggled out of the gates against Illinois. Once QB Blaine Gabbert settled down, the Tigers handled their business in the second half. The defense showed flashes of improvement, but the offense looks to be adjusting to life without a legitimate running threat.
5. Oklahoma State – The biggest surprise of the weekend was the return of Cowboys RB Kendall Hunter, who returned to his 2008 All American form for OK State. The offense hummed along to the tune of 544 yards. The defense gave up over 300 to a weak Washington State team, but if Hutner is going to run for 240 yards and 4 TDs each game, the defense can take off any number of games and the Cowboys can still sneak into conference title contention.
6. Texas A&M – Beating SFA doesn’t do much credit for the Fighting Aggies, but at least they didn’t struggle and handled their business as needed against the Lumberjacks. Jerrod Johnson looked to be in midseason form.
7. Kansas State – K-State may not compete for the Big 12 north, but they showed some courage and guts to hold off a game UCLA team. Daniel Thomas proved his 2009 campaign was no fluke with 235 yards running. The defense made the key stop when they needed to, and beating a Pac 10 team is something the Wildcats can hang their hat on, especially after missing a bowl game in 2009 because they scheduled too many weak FCS opponents.
8. Texas Tech – The offense moved faster between snaps, but scored less than previous Raider teams. The defense held when it needed to, but giving up 27 points to a C-USA team doesn’t bode well for the transition into the defensive minded Tommy Tubberville era. The verdict is out, but TTU doesn’t appear to have upgraded in the short term.
9. Colorado – They manhandled the Colorado State Rams, but can Dan Hawkins still save his job? If his defense forces some of the inexperienced Big 12 quarterbacks into 3 interceptions like they did on Saturday, they may be more impressive and sneak up on some folks.
10. Iowa State – The Cyclones went into their Thursday night contest with Northern Illinois favored by only 4.5 points. They were able to put the Huskies out of the game early in the 2nd quarter. Wins like these should be savored by ISU who faces one of the country’s more difficult schedules.
11. Baylor – Robert Griffin is the only reason Baylor scares anyone. A one man team can’t compete on a consistent level. Beating up on SHSU doesn’t prove any different.
12. Kansas – a 6-3 loss to FCS North Dakota State? The Turner Gil era isn’t off to a great start. When’s basketball start in Lawrence?
Sunday, September 5, 2010
CFN Article Instant Reaction to Rice vs. Texas
Instant Reaction Rice vs Texas
Texas looked like one would expect a team to look after losing the winningest quarterback in college football history. At times they looked lost, out of sync, and like they were adjusting to a new running game, which they were. The focus on the run was apparent from the early going, with the first 7 plays being runs off the left side of the line. Whether the run will be a successful tool for Texas this year remains to be seen. The defense looked impressive – aside from a fluke tipped pass that went for a touchdown and a muffed punt late in the game by Aaron Williams which put the D in a hole, the unit gave up only 3 points, and looked dominant against Rice.
The running game, as a whole, was hugely disappointing against a weak Rice defense. Right from the first possession, you’ve got to wonder about a team looking to change what was a very successful spread offense for the last few seasons. If you get to the one yard line on third down, and can’t plunge the ball into the endzone on two tries against a Conference USA opponent, what are you going to do against a defense like Nebraska? If Texas wants to be known as a downhill running team who plays a smashmouth style, they’ve got a lot of work to do with their run blocking. Also, calling a pitch play for Cody Johnson and 4th down from the 1 yard line instead of running between the tackles is a goofy way to show you are committed to running the ball for tough yards. Johnson and Tre Newton each averaged less than 4 yards per carry. If you’re becoming a power running team, you’ve got to do better than that. As a whole, the team got 197 on the ground – which is about 50 yards more than they averaged per game in 2009. In theory, that’s good, but when you consider GG only threw for 182 yards, you start to wonder about the over effectiveness of the new scheme.
As the game progressed, it was good to see Texas eating up yards on the run. 3rd and 4 yards to go and the Longhorns running looked weird to Texas fans, but at least they were able to grind out yards when they needed it.
The running game and offense, however, had an eerily similar look to two teams. First of all, when they ran the hurry up offense, and put a receiver in motion for a draw handoff, they showed flashes of the 2008 Oklahoma Sooners, who set offensive records across the board. Minus the effective production at the QB spot, of course. Garrett Gilber is clearly no Sam Bradford, yet. The offense at other times looked like the 2001 Texas Longhorns, a unit led by Chris Simms that was committed to running the ball, results against OU be damned. At times the team was sluggish, out of sync, and it appeared OC Greg Davis and Brown were going to run the ball whether it was working or not.
Speaking of Garret Gilbert, he didn’t impress or disappoint this game. He won’t be able to thrown for 179 yards against good competition and win. Oftentimes, it looked like he and his receiving corps weren’t on the same page. No one stepped up as a go to guy, especially on the few third and longs Texas faced. GG looked lost on most of those plays. The best passing play of the day was a deep ball to Malcolm Williams in the 2nd half. Unfortunately, Williams seemed to make a catch look more difficult than it was – he was focusing on not dropping the ball instead of keeping his feet and catching the ball in stride for a touchdown. The ball was perfectly thrown –put Williams didn’t want to have another case of the drops, so he cradled the ball and fell to the turf, gaining only 40 plus yards. He needs to take that one to the house.
Defensively the Longhorns are loaded. Keenan Robinson, Sam Acho, and Kenny Vaccarro were very impressive. Robinson scored a TD, had a sack and an INT. Acho did what he does best – forced a turnover. He and Eddie Jones were in the backfield most of the second half, after Texas adjusted to the zone read Rice was running. Not sure who, but Kenny Vaccarro needs to replace someone in the starting lineup. Black Gideon wouldn’t be a bad candidate. While he is one of the smarter defensive players on the field, and knows Muschamp’s offense better than almost anyone, Gideon still looks timid when making tackles. More often than not, he lets the play come to him instead of attacking the ball carrier and laying the wood. Vaccarro had a coupld of vicious hits yesterday, the kind that make receivers and running backs forget the run itself, but remember who made the tackle. KV led the team with 7 tackles.
Why Chykie Brown continues to get playing time is a mystery. He was beat by Rice receivers downfield for big plays twice, and couldn’t make a touchdown saving tackled on a deep ball late in the first half. Furthermore, he looks lost covering taller players. Aaron Williams needs to take his spot on the field for standard 4-3 alignments, and Brown can come into nickel situations. Or maybe there’s a freshman on the bench who could take his snaps. The guy is quickly becoming the Brian Boddicker of this team.
The speed of the defense and the pursuit sideline to sideline was amazing. Freshman stud Jackson Jeffcoat’s sack was something to drool over –his explosiveness and speed off the ball was amazing. Now we know what Muschamp and Brown were gushing about all offseason – this is possibly the fastest D Texas has ever had, and it showed yesterday. More forced turnovers would have been nice, but it was still a very impressive unit. Mushcamp’s crew will definitely be the reason Texas has a chance for a special year.
The special teams needs work. Not once did a kickoff by Texas go for a touchback. Field position will be critical in UT’s biggest games, especially if the offense continues to struggle to find consistency and scores. Two missed field goals from over 45 yards isn’t something to flip out about, but when Texas is replacing the most accurate kicker in Longhorns history, it is a bit weird to watch FG attempts sail wide left. Aaron Williams made two terrible decisions as punt returner, one of which cost his team 7 points late in the game when he attempted to run up and field a bouncing ball inside the 15 yard line, only to muff it. Clearly the special teams units didn’t have their A game, and UT will need to correct those mistakes before Lubbock in two weeks.
All in all, it was good to see Texas on the field against someone besides themselves. The run game is either going to develop into a great tool to exploit weaker opponents with deep passes ala OU in 2008, or will bog a team better suited to be a pass happy unit like Texas circa 2001. The jury is still out. The defense is going to be amazing, must watch football. Correcting a few special teams mistakes and working on the tip drill with the DBs, and you’re talking about a unit that gave up barely 200 yards of offense and only 3 points. Mushcamp’s unit should be ready for an impressive showing against Wyoming next week. The small problems need fixing before heading to Lubbock in 2 weeks.
Texas looked like one would expect a team to look after losing the winningest quarterback in college football history. At times they looked lost, out of sync, and like they were adjusting to a new running game, which they were. The focus on the run was apparent from the early going, with the first 7 plays being runs off the left side of the line. Whether the run will be a successful tool for Texas this year remains to be seen. The defense looked impressive – aside from a fluke tipped pass that went for a touchdown and a muffed punt late in the game by Aaron Williams which put the D in a hole, the unit gave up only 3 points, and looked dominant against Rice.
The running game, as a whole, was hugely disappointing against a weak Rice defense. Right from the first possession, you’ve got to wonder about a team looking to change what was a very successful spread offense for the last few seasons. If you get to the one yard line on third down, and can’t plunge the ball into the endzone on two tries against a Conference USA opponent, what are you going to do against a defense like Nebraska? If Texas wants to be known as a downhill running team who plays a smashmouth style, they’ve got a lot of work to do with their run blocking. Also, calling a pitch play for Cody Johnson and 4th down from the 1 yard line instead of running between the tackles is a goofy way to show you are committed to running the ball for tough yards. Johnson and Tre Newton each averaged less than 4 yards per carry. If you’re becoming a power running team, you’ve got to do better than that. As a whole, the team got 197 on the ground – which is about 50 yards more than they averaged per game in 2009. In theory, that’s good, but when you consider GG only threw for 182 yards, you start to wonder about the over effectiveness of the new scheme.
As the game progressed, it was good to see Texas eating up yards on the run. 3rd and 4 yards to go and the Longhorns running looked weird to Texas fans, but at least they were able to grind out yards when they needed it.
The running game and offense, however, had an eerily similar look to two teams. First of all, when they ran the hurry up offense, and put a receiver in motion for a draw handoff, they showed flashes of the 2008 Oklahoma Sooners, who set offensive records across the board. Minus the effective production at the QB spot, of course. Garrett Gilber is clearly no Sam Bradford, yet. The offense at other times looked like the 2001 Texas Longhorns, a unit led by Chris Simms that was committed to running the ball, results against OU be damned. At times the team was sluggish, out of sync, and it appeared OC Greg Davis and Brown were going to run the ball whether it was working or not.
Speaking of Garret Gilbert, he didn’t impress or disappoint this game. He won’t be able to thrown for 179 yards against good competition and win. Oftentimes, it looked like he and his receiving corps weren’t on the same page. No one stepped up as a go to guy, especially on the few third and longs Texas faced. GG looked lost on most of those plays. The best passing play of the day was a deep ball to Malcolm Williams in the 2nd half. Unfortunately, Williams seemed to make a catch look more difficult than it was – he was focusing on not dropping the ball instead of keeping his feet and catching the ball in stride for a touchdown. The ball was perfectly thrown –put Williams didn’t want to have another case of the drops, so he cradled the ball and fell to the turf, gaining only 40 plus yards. He needs to take that one to the house.
Defensively the Longhorns are loaded. Keenan Robinson, Sam Acho, and Kenny Vaccarro were very impressive. Robinson scored a TD, had a sack and an INT. Acho did what he does best – forced a turnover. He and Eddie Jones were in the backfield most of the second half, after Texas adjusted to the zone read Rice was running. Not sure who, but Kenny Vaccarro needs to replace someone in the starting lineup. Black Gideon wouldn’t be a bad candidate. While he is one of the smarter defensive players on the field, and knows Muschamp’s offense better than almost anyone, Gideon still looks timid when making tackles. More often than not, he lets the play come to him instead of attacking the ball carrier and laying the wood. Vaccarro had a coupld of vicious hits yesterday, the kind that make receivers and running backs forget the run itself, but remember who made the tackle. KV led the team with 7 tackles.
Why Chykie Brown continues to get playing time is a mystery. He was beat by Rice receivers downfield for big plays twice, and couldn’t make a touchdown saving tackled on a deep ball late in the first half. Furthermore, he looks lost covering taller players. Aaron Williams needs to take his spot on the field for standard 4-3 alignments, and Brown can come into nickel situations. Or maybe there’s a freshman on the bench who could take his snaps. The guy is quickly becoming the Brian Boddicker of this team.
The speed of the defense and the pursuit sideline to sideline was amazing. Freshman stud Jackson Jeffcoat’s sack was something to drool over –his explosiveness and speed off the ball was amazing. Now we know what Muschamp and Brown were gushing about all offseason – this is possibly the fastest D Texas has ever had, and it showed yesterday. More forced turnovers would have been nice, but it was still a very impressive unit. Mushcamp’s crew will definitely be the reason Texas has a chance for a special year.
The special teams needs work. Not once did a kickoff by Texas go for a touchback. Field position will be critical in UT’s biggest games, especially if the offense continues to struggle to find consistency and scores. Two missed field goals from over 45 yards isn’t something to flip out about, but when Texas is replacing the most accurate kicker in Longhorns history, it is a bit weird to watch FG attempts sail wide left. Aaron Williams made two terrible decisions as punt returner, one of which cost his team 7 points late in the game when he attempted to run up and field a bouncing ball inside the 15 yard line, only to muff it. Clearly the special teams units didn’t have their A game, and UT will need to correct those mistakes before Lubbock in two weeks.
All in all, it was good to see Texas on the field against someone besides themselves. The run game is either going to develop into a great tool to exploit weaker opponents with deep passes ala OU in 2008, or will bog a team better suited to be a pass happy unit like Texas circa 2001. The jury is still out. The defense is going to be amazing, must watch football. Correcting a few special teams mistakes and working on the tip drill with the DBs, and you’re talking about a unit that gave up barely 200 yards of offense and only 3 points. Mushcamp’s unit should be ready for an impressive showing against Wyoming next week. The small problems need fixing before heading to Lubbock in 2 weeks.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Ohio State and Michigan - Different Divisions
Fans in Ohio and Michigan are up in arms. Woody Hayes must be turning over in his grave. Ohio State and Michigan, one of the most storied programs in college football history, will no longer be playing each other every year. The Big 10 released the divisional structure once Nebraska is accepted into the league starting in 2011. If the Buckeyes and the Wolverines want to face off on the final weekend of Big 10 play each year, they'll have to plan to meet for the conference title.
The loss of one of sports most storied rivalries is another casualty of conference realignment. When the Big 12 was formed, we lost OU vs. Nebraska. Now we lose OSU vs UM. If not for some last minute finaggling by the state of Texas, we would have lost Texas vs Texas A&M this past season (and may still lose it in the next few years).
It seems in the midst of taking advantage of the popularity of college football, conference commissioners, university administrators, and even some coaches are overlooking the traditions that made the sport as popular as it is. In a sport where only 2 teams have a shot at the national championship at the end of the year, does it seem fair to take away games the players grow up dreaming to play? Players who go to Ohio State yearn to crush Michigan each year, and vice versa. When Michigan plays Ohio State and they are both having subpar years, the ratings are still huge, the emotion is still high, and the desire to win remains higher than for any other game either team played that season. Now what is a 9-2 Ohio State and its legion of fans going to get so excited for? Wisconsin? What about Michigan? With their recent struggles, it seemed their biggest game every year is Ohio State - who replaces the Buckeyes? Nebraska?
If the people running college football want to continue to create high ratings and grow the sport, they ought to reconsider changing the parts of the game we love. Including historic rivalries for the sake of a buck.
The loss of one of sports most storied rivalries is another casualty of conference realignment. When the Big 12 was formed, we lost OU vs. Nebraska. Now we lose OSU vs UM. If not for some last minute finaggling by the state of Texas, we would have lost Texas vs Texas A&M this past season (and may still lose it in the next few years).
It seems in the midst of taking advantage of the popularity of college football, conference commissioners, university administrators, and even some coaches are overlooking the traditions that made the sport as popular as it is. In a sport where only 2 teams have a shot at the national championship at the end of the year, does it seem fair to take away games the players grow up dreaming to play? Players who go to Ohio State yearn to crush Michigan each year, and vice versa. When Michigan plays Ohio State and they are both having subpar years, the ratings are still huge, the emotion is still high, and the desire to win remains higher than for any other game either team played that season. Now what is a 9-2 Ohio State and its legion of fans going to get so excited for? Wisconsin? What about Michigan? With their recent struggles, it seemed their biggest game every year is Ohio State - who replaces the Buckeyes? Nebraska?
If the people running college football want to continue to create high ratings and grow the sport, they ought to reconsider changing the parts of the game we love. Including historic rivalries for the sake of a buck.
NCAA Football Uniforms
Uni Watch is one of the greatest websites in the world. This guy covers all things uniform related, and as college football draws 1 day closer, he took at a look at some uniform changes for the 2010 season.
Texas A&M
The Aggies have toned down the large stripes on the side of the pants, which gives them a much cleaner look. Does this negate the use of gray pants? I hope so.
Virginia
These guys have enough combos to be the Oregon of the east. Doubt they'll be as successful this year as Oregon was in '09.
Iowa
They will only wear them once, but I think the Hawkeyes should go to these throwbacks full time.
Notre Dame
They will still suck.
Army
The best part about Army's uniforms is the new gun metal grays that are a part of the rotation. Pretty sweet, especially for a team named Army.
Pac 10
A strange time to unveil a new conference logo, considering this is the last season there will be a Pac 10.
Tennessee
I don't understand people at Tennessee. A few years ago they went with black jerseys. Now this year's team debuts black socks? It looks like a bunch of dudes forgot to change outta their Sunday best before a football game broke out.
Also mentioned was the fact that college football officials will have the option to wear black slacks instead of white during cold weather games. Great. Now they'll look like recreational flag football officials like those clowns in the NFL do.
http://assets.buffalobills.com/uploads/photo/DC54136126F841D68D138100248D0E20.jpg
Texas A&M
The Aggies have toned down the large stripes on the side of the pants, which gives them a much cleaner look. Does this negate the use of gray pants? I hope so.
Virginia
These guys have enough combos to be the Oregon of the east. Doubt they'll be as successful this year as Oregon was in '09.
Iowa
They will only wear them once, but I think the Hawkeyes should go to these throwbacks full time.
Notre Dame
They will still suck.
Army
The best part about Army's uniforms is the new gun metal grays that are a part of the rotation. Pretty sweet, especially for a team named Army.
Pac 10
A strange time to unveil a new conference logo, considering this is the last season there will be a Pac 10.
Tennessee
I don't understand people at Tennessee. A few years ago they went with black jerseys. Now this year's team debuts black socks? It looks like a bunch of dudes forgot to change outta their Sunday best before a football game broke out.
Also mentioned was the fact that college football officials will have the option to wear black slacks instead of white during cold weather games. Great. Now they'll look like recreational flag football officials like those clowns in the NFL do.
http://assets.buffalobills.com/uploads/photo/DC54136126F841D68D138100248D0E20.jpg
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
CFN #7: 10 Questions for Saturday's Rice Game
10 things to watch for in the Texas opener against the Rice Owls this Saturday.
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Is Garrett Gilbert truly ready to step up? Or do we have another Chris Simms at Texas?
This question may seem a bit crazy, considering all the pre-season hype and expectations surrounding Gilbert after his showing in the most difficult of games last January versus Alabama. But the fact is Texas fans have not seen a full game under Gilbert’s belt. Sure, he responded well and helped lead Texas impressively for about 9 minutes during the BCS title game. But the reality is he still turned the ball over five times, and had one of the worst first halves in football with his 1-10 performance in the first half.
He seems primed for a big year and a legendary career like his predecessor Colt and Vince. But remember, Chris Simms was the national Gatorade Player of the Year coming out of high school too. He couldn’t handle the leadership requirements that come with being QB at a place like Texas. With key seniors from the 2009 team gone, this is the game where Gilbert must step up, young as he is, and make this HIS team. He can’t rely on the success he had in spring ball, or fall camp, or the Alabama game. Going forward the success will be credited to him, sure, but Texas fans and coaches aren’t going to forgive him for 5 turnovers in a game like they did after Alabama. Time to put up and show you’re the real deal.
Can he make the transition from a spread offense QB to a guy who goes under center? Will he see blitzes and audible? Can he learn the art of checking down instead of trying to force it deep? These are questions any first year starter must answer – and although Texas fans think they’ve got another winner in Gilbert, it’s finally time to see just what #7 can do.
What will the “new” running game look like?
The coaching staff’s decision to move to a more power running attack has been routinely questioned and analyzed all off season. Now the question is: what will this attack look like? With powerful Cody Johnson earning the start this week against Rice, you can expect more running between the tackles than fans have seen in Austin in recent years. Gone are the days of the zone and option read in favor of more downhill running. Using Johnson to bully their way down the field, Texas ought to be able to control the clock and allow their defense and running game to maintain tempo to its liking.
Mack Brown alluded to the fact that the game plan won’t be overtly different from the previous years. He still wants to run some no-huddle, fast paced attacks. Expect to see Tre Newton and Fozzy Whitaker to get their fair share of carries, as the Longhorns try to establish the identity of the running game for the 2010 season against the subpar Rice defense.
Keep an eye on Kyle Hix and Michael Huey, the anchors of the left side of the Texas offensive line. With the most experience of any lineman, and the loss of Tray Allen, Greg Davis and Brown will spend ample time seeing if Hix and Huey can become more downhill blockers and lead the charge. Last year’s line couldn’t change during midseason to be better prepared to come off the ball. Now Texas fans learn if the offseason work paid off.
Who will emerge as a go-to receiver?
Jordan Shipley is gone trying to catch whatever extra passes are around Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens in Cincinnati. After catching 115 balls last year, and breaking most all Texas single season receiving records, Shipley leaves behind a group of unproven receivers, one of whom will need to step up to become the safety net and reliable threat for Gilbert in 2010.
Coming out of camp coaches have raved on James Kirkendoll as the potential # 1 receiver, but Greg Davis has also alluded to the fact that 4 guys could catch upwards of 40 passes each this year. Kirkendoll’s disappearance during last year’s Big 12 title and BCS title games is a bit disconcerting – can he step into the role of Shipley and make the key catches when needed? What about Malcolm Williams? Ever since he caught 2 TDs against Texas Tech in 2008 (including a 91 yard streaking bomb), Texas has been waiting for him to step up into a deep ball threat. With a focus on running the ball and more play action, down the field plays, it would seem Williams would be poised for a breakout year. But remember, this is the same guy who had a perfect lob bounce threw his hands (courtesy of Gilbert, in fact) against Alabama that could have turned the tide in favor of Texas in the 2nd quarter. Instead Texas settled for a field goal, and we all remember what happened after that.
There has been praise for some of the freshman, including Mike Davis, a young man who is evidently a workhorse and has impressed coaches with his ability to grasp the offense. Still, relying on freshman is a dubious decision, especially so early in the season.
Whoever it is, someone will need to emerge quickly. A name to keep an eye on – Marquise Goodwin. The world class track athlete may be able to slip past defenders on deep posts and go routes, where the defensive safeties have bitten up against the run on play action fakes.
Can Will Muschamp contain his enthusiasm?
This is simple. Of course not. The biggest of the day Saturday may come from Muschamp on his own players leaving the field after a big defensive stand.
Who will be this year’s Sergio Kindle / Brian Orakpo?
It’s got to be one of Acho brothers, even if Emmanuel is inside LB to start the year. Sam will move from a down lineman in a 4-3 defensive scheme to a blitzing linebacker in 3-4 pass defenses. Remember, Kindle didn’t have a high amount of sacks last year, but he led the Big 12 in QB pressures. All Texas needs for the defense to succeed is a consistent pass rushing threat that offenses must scheme for and protect. Once that is established, Muschamp’s defenses are far more wide open and able to bring more pressure from other parts. With a secondary that is ranked as one of the best in the country, Texas should have no problem remaining a leading sack team in the country, so long as someone steps up into the QB pressure – master role, like Kindle and Orakpo of the last two years.
Don’t be surprised if we see quite a bit of Jackson Jeffcoat occupying this role on Saturday. He’s listed as a backup defensive end behind Eddie Jones, and comes in to bolster one of the strongest aspects of the Texas D – defensive end. He’ll move around much in the same mold as Sam Acho, and it will be interesting to see him compete in game situations as a true freshman.
Will ANYONE throw the ball at Aaron Williams?
My guess is no. And thus, Williams won’t be discussed much for the 2010 Thorpe award, given to the nation’s best defensive back. Unless he makes plays out of position, Williams will be expected to shut down UT opponents’ top receiving threat on a regular basis. He’ll oftentimes be left alone, on the proverbial island against some of the best receivers in the land. Will it happen this Saturday? Probably not, but it’ll be interesting to watch and see how an offense with no identity will avoid the top DB at Texas, and a future NFL first rounder.
Can Kyle Hix make the switch to left tackle and protect Gilbert? Can Texas run behind Hix and Huey?
Kyle Hix seems like he’s been at Texas for years, because he’s made 30 starts on the offensive line. This year, he’s switching over to the left tackle spot to protect Garrett Gilbert’s blind side. Coaches say the switch has gone well thus far, but all it takes is one missed blocking assignment and Gilbert could be lost for the season. Quite a bit of pressure for a guy learning the nuances of a new spot on the field.
In addition, the only other starter on the line with significant playing time is Michael Huey, who will be lining up next to Hix. Even when not worrying about protecting Gilbert, expect the Horns to try and run the ball behind their two most experienced linemen. It will be interesting to gauge how successful the running game can be, especially if, as expected, the run slants heavily to the left side of the line.
Can John Gold replace Hunter Lawrence as a productive placekicker?
Texas fans won’t soon forget the name Hunter Lawrence, he of the last minute kick to win the Big 12 Championship in 2009. John Gold, the Longhorns punter last year, will take the place of a guy who hit over 80% of his FG attempts in his career at Texas. During preseason, Gold missed one opportunity during live ball scrimmages, so the coaching staff is confident in his ability to get the job done. Can he do it with :01 on the clock, with the Big 12 on the line? No one knows until they are in that situation, but Texas will find out Saturday how the new placekicker will perform in front of 70,000 plus fans with expectations sky high.
Who returns kickoffs – can Texas be explosive on kick returns?
DJ Munroe? Marquise Goodwin? These would seem the logical answers, although Munroe’s status is still unclear for Saturday’s game. Last year, Texas was proficient in kick and punt returning, though they will have to replace Jordan Shipley in the punting game. If Goodwin or Munroe can emerge as elite returners, Texas can rely on decent field position to implement their revised offensive scheme. Goodwin also appears to be in the lead for the punt returning job, though a final decision may not be known until Saturday. It was also be interesting to see how the new NCAA rule that eliminates wedge blocking affects the return game of Texas. Coach Brown doesn’t think it will matter much, but Texas has been an excellent special teams group over the last two years. To remain a top 5 team, they will need that spark again this season.
What’s the final score going to be? Can Texas sell the game out in Houston?
The game probably won’t see out, because it is still just Rice. Texas will pour it on well into the 3rd quarter, to ensure the starters are ready to go for Texas Tech in just 2 weeks time. The average score over the past few years has been around 52-10. Our final prediction will come out later this week.
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Is Garrett Gilbert truly ready to step up? Or do we have another Chris Simms at Texas?
This question may seem a bit crazy, considering all the pre-season hype and expectations surrounding Gilbert after his showing in the most difficult of games last January versus Alabama. But the fact is Texas fans have not seen a full game under Gilbert’s belt. Sure, he responded well and helped lead Texas impressively for about 9 minutes during the BCS title game. But the reality is he still turned the ball over five times, and had one of the worst first halves in football with his 1-10 performance in the first half.
He seems primed for a big year and a legendary career like his predecessor Colt and Vince. But remember, Chris Simms was the national Gatorade Player of the Year coming out of high school too. He couldn’t handle the leadership requirements that come with being QB at a place like Texas. With key seniors from the 2009 team gone, this is the game where Gilbert must step up, young as he is, and make this HIS team. He can’t rely on the success he had in spring ball, or fall camp, or the Alabama game. Going forward the success will be credited to him, sure, but Texas fans and coaches aren’t going to forgive him for 5 turnovers in a game like they did after Alabama. Time to put up and show you’re the real deal.
Can he make the transition from a spread offense QB to a guy who goes under center? Will he see blitzes and audible? Can he learn the art of checking down instead of trying to force it deep? These are questions any first year starter must answer – and although Texas fans think they’ve got another winner in Gilbert, it’s finally time to see just what #7 can do.
What will the “new” running game look like?
The coaching staff’s decision to move to a more power running attack has been routinely questioned and analyzed all off season. Now the question is: what will this attack look like? With powerful Cody Johnson earning the start this week against Rice, you can expect more running between the tackles than fans have seen in Austin in recent years. Gone are the days of the zone and option read in favor of more downhill running. Using Johnson to bully their way down the field, Texas ought to be able to control the clock and allow their defense and running game to maintain tempo to its liking.
Mack Brown alluded to the fact that the game plan won’t be overtly different from the previous years. He still wants to run some no-huddle, fast paced attacks. Expect to see Tre Newton and Fozzy Whitaker to get their fair share of carries, as the Longhorns try to establish the identity of the running game for the 2010 season against the subpar Rice defense.
Keep an eye on Kyle Hix and Michael Huey, the anchors of the left side of the Texas offensive line. With the most experience of any lineman, and the loss of Tray Allen, Greg Davis and Brown will spend ample time seeing if Hix and Huey can become more downhill blockers and lead the charge. Last year’s line couldn’t change during midseason to be better prepared to come off the ball. Now Texas fans learn if the offseason work paid off.
Who will emerge as a go-to receiver?
Jordan Shipley is gone trying to catch whatever extra passes are around Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens in Cincinnati. After catching 115 balls last year, and breaking most all Texas single season receiving records, Shipley leaves behind a group of unproven receivers, one of whom will need to step up to become the safety net and reliable threat for Gilbert in 2010.
Coming out of camp coaches have raved on James Kirkendoll as the potential # 1 receiver, but Greg Davis has also alluded to the fact that 4 guys could catch upwards of 40 passes each this year. Kirkendoll’s disappearance during last year’s Big 12 title and BCS title games is a bit disconcerting – can he step into the role of Shipley and make the key catches when needed? What about Malcolm Williams? Ever since he caught 2 TDs against Texas Tech in 2008 (including a 91 yard streaking bomb), Texas has been waiting for him to step up into a deep ball threat. With a focus on running the ball and more play action, down the field plays, it would seem Williams would be poised for a breakout year. But remember, this is the same guy who had a perfect lob bounce threw his hands (courtesy of Gilbert, in fact) against Alabama that could have turned the tide in favor of Texas in the 2nd quarter. Instead Texas settled for a field goal, and we all remember what happened after that.
There has been praise for some of the freshman, including Mike Davis, a young man who is evidently a workhorse and has impressed coaches with his ability to grasp the offense. Still, relying on freshman is a dubious decision, especially so early in the season.
Whoever it is, someone will need to emerge quickly. A name to keep an eye on – Marquise Goodwin. The world class track athlete may be able to slip past defenders on deep posts and go routes, where the defensive safeties have bitten up against the run on play action fakes.
Can Will Muschamp contain his enthusiasm?
This is simple. Of course not. The biggest of the day Saturday may come from Muschamp on his own players leaving the field after a big defensive stand.
Who will be this year’s Sergio Kindle / Brian Orakpo?
It’s got to be one of Acho brothers, even if Emmanuel is inside LB to start the year. Sam will move from a down lineman in a 4-3 defensive scheme to a blitzing linebacker in 3-4 pass defenses. Remember, Kindle didn’t have a high amount of sacks last year, but he led the Big 12 in QB pressures. All Texas needs for the defense to succeed is a consistent pass rushing threat that offenses must scheme for and protect. Once that is established, Muschamp’s defenses are far more wide open and able to bring more pressure from other parts. With a secondary that is ranked as one of the best in the country, Texas should have no problem remaining a leading sack team in the country, so long as someone steps up into the QB pressure – master role, like Kindle and Orakpo of the last two years.
Don’t be surprised if we see quite a bit of Jackson Jeffcoat occupying this role on Saturday. He’s listed as a backup defensive end behind Eddie Jones, and comes in to bolster one of the strongest aspects of the Texas D – defensive end. He’ll move around much in the same mold as Sam Acho, and it will be interesting to see him compete in game situations as a true freshman.
Will ANYONE throw the ball at Aaron Williams?
My guess is no. And thus, Williams won’t be discussed much for the 2010 Thorpe award, given to the nation’s best defensive back. Unless he makes plays out of position, Williams will be expected to shut down UT opponents’ top receiving threat on a regular basis. He’ll oftentimes be left alone, on the proverbial island against some of the best receivers in the land. Will it happen this Saturday? Probably not, but it’ll be interesting to watch and see how an offense with no identity will avoid the top DB at Texas, and a future NFL first rounder.
Can Kyle Hix make the switch to left tackle and protect Gilbert? Can Texas run behind Hix and Huey?
Kyle Hix seems like he’s been at Texas for years, because he’s made 30 starts on the offensive line. This year, he’s switching over to the left tackle spot to protect Garrett Gilbert’s blind side. Coaches say the switch has gone well thus far, but all it takes is one missed blocking assignment and Gilbert could be lost for the season. Quite a bit of pressure for a guy learning the nuances of a new spot on the field.
In addition, the only other starter on the line with significant playing time is Michael Huey, who will be lining up next to Hix. Even when not worrying about protecting Gilbert, expect the Horns to try and run the ball behind their two most experienced linemen. It will be interesting to gauge how successful the running game can be, especially if, as expected, the run slants heavily to the left side of the line.
Can John Gold replace Hunter Lawrence as a productive placekicker?
Texas fans won’t soon forget the name Hunter Lawrence, he of the last minute kick to win the Big 12 Championship in 2009. John Gold, the Longhorns punter last year, will take the place of a guy who hit over 80% of his FG attempts in his career at Texas. During preseason, Gold missed one opportunity during live ball scrimmages, so the coaching staff is confident in his ability to get the job done. Can he do it with :01 on the clock, with the Big 12 on the line? No one knows until they are in that situation, but Texas will find out Saturday how the new placekicker will perform in front of 70,000 plus fans with expectations sky high.
Who returns kickoffs – can Texas be explosive on kick returns?
DJ Munroe? Marquise Goodwin? These would seem the logical answers, although Munroe’s status is still unclear for Saturday’s game. Last year, Texas was proficient in kick and punt returning, though they will have to replace Jordan Shipley in the punting game. If Goodwin or Munroe can emerge as elite returners, Texas can rely on decent field position to implement their revised offensive scheme. Goodwin also appears to be in the lead for the punt returning job, though a final decision may not be known until Saturday. It was also be interesting to see how the new NCAA rule that eliminates wedge blocking affects the return game of Texas. Coach Brown doesn’t think it will matter much, but Texas has been an excellent special teams group over the last two years. To remain a top 5 team, they will need that spark again this season.
What’s the final score going to be? Can Texas sell the game out in Houston?
The game probably won’t see out, because it is still just Rice. Texas will pour it on well into the 3rd quarter, to ensure the starters are ready to go for Texas Tech in just 2 weeks time. The average score over the past few years has been around 52-10. Our final prediction will come out later this week.
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