Inside Texas 2019 Season Preview

INSIDETEXAS.COM

2019 SEASON PREVIEW

We’re Back!

LED BY SAM EHLINGER, THE LONGHORNS ARE RELEVANT AGAIN AND POISED TO MAKE A RUN AT A BIG XII TITLE.

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in this issue

Inside Texas Football Glossary |

by

Joe Cook

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Joe explains the convoluted shorthand of football.

Ready to Play |

by

Mike Blackwell

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Mike Blackwell

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Brandon Jones is ready for his leading role.

Just the Facts |

by

If you want honest answers, talk to an offensive lineman.

2019 Team Preview |

Joe Cook and Justin Wells A look at the 2019 Longhorns position by position by

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Offense

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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 To Subscribe/Customer Service -- Phone: 512-659-8167 | Email: help@insidetexas.com

2019 INSIDE TEXAS F Football is its own language.

Sure, if you were to say “the back followed his blockers before bouncing it outside and juking a defender,” it’s not hard to get a sense of what’s going on.

If you were to say “they ran inside zone against a four-man front, the OL was able to neutralize the DT and NT, move up to the linebackers, and the back cut outside once the safety committed to corralling him one on one,” the X’s and O’s on the chalkboard start to come to life.

Ian and I have put together a list of all the relevant terms to 2019 Texas’ offense, defense, strategy, and deployment. Use this as a resource and feel free to ask us about any other terms we might have overlooked.

OFFENSE RPO – RPO is an abbreviation for “run-pass option.” There are several iterations of the RPO, but the most important letter in that acronym is the O for “option.” Similar to the triple-option system where the QB is reading whether to pitch or to keep by reading an unblocked defender on the edge, in an RPO he must read whether to hand off to a back or throw it to a receiver based on what a defender

in close proximity to the QB and the box, with straight-line speed and quickness important in so far as they allow the player to win those one-on-ones.

ZWR – The ZWR normally lines up on the outside aligned to the field (wide side). Size and quickness is important, but straight-line speed is the primary need for players in this position since they are playing in more open space. In addition, ZWR is important in the screen blocking game, since he’s often aligned next to the slot. Go

off the ball does.

routes, posts, slants, and digs are important routes for this position.

XWR – In Texas football lingo, the XWR normally lines up on the

HWR – Not to be confused with a physical, fullback style “h-back,”

boundary (short) side of the field. Size, physicality and the ability to win one-on-one balls are necessary traits for the position since he’s

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the HWR is the slot receiver in the Texas offense. Before Lil’Jordan Humphrey, it was a RB/WR position that was typically home to the notorious “Percy Harvin types.” Humphrey modified how the position

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FOOTBALL GLOSSERY

BY JOE COOK

Sam Ehlinger

could be used mostly he was more of a flex TE using his 6-4 frame and lateral quickness to beat man coverage. Prospects at this position will be more in the Reggie Hemphill-Mapps, Joshua Moore, Jake Smith mold.

Y-TE – Texas calls the tight end position, the position Andrew Beck played in 2018, the Y. Inside the program, the members of this room are called Y-dogs. This player needs to be versatile to allow the offense to stay in a hybrid 11 personnel set. He needs to be able to act as a fullback on some downs, a tight end on others, and a slot receiver on others. When he can do all three the offense quickly create all kinds of formations that can attack defenses in different fashions without substituting and thus not allowing the defense to substitute into packages designed to handle the different stresses.

11 personnel – The preferred personnel package of Tom Herman’s offense. The first number designates how many running backs are on the field, while the second notes the amount of tight ends. If you see coaches on the sideline behind defensive signal-callers holding signs with 11, 12, 10 or any other number like that, it is to identify the personnel for the defense. The presence of a tight end requires the defense to have to account for an extra gap in the run game.

Herman prefers his tight ends be able to play inside the tackles and offer the ability to split out in the passing game to occupy defenders from time to time.

10 personnel – For Texas, this can be referred to as a four wide receiver set. Texas ran this often in 2017 due to the lack of a tight end who could manage the responsibilities of the position.

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20 personnel – This can mean a lot of different things, at the most basic level it means the offense has two running backs and

pulls over to kick out and the backside tackle also pulls and he serves as the lead blocker.

zero tight ends on the field. That second RB could be a blocking fullback, a second true RB, or a RB/WR hybrid that can also flex out as

DEFENSE

a slot and help attack the perimeter. When Texas is in 20 personnel it’ll probably mean either that they are asking one of the two RBs to be a sort of FB and throwing lead blocks for the other or that they’re asking one of them to be a RB/WR hybrid that attacks the perimeter to clear out space inside for the other back.

21 personnel – Two RBs and one TE. The I-formation is the classic 21 personnel set but nowadays teams often use hybrid personnel in the spread that create different iterations. In one sense, Texas’ 2018 offense was a 21 personnel group since Lil’Jordan Humphrey was like a full-time flex TE and while TE Andrew Beck was almost like a fullback. The Oklahoma Sooners regularly use spread 21 personnel with a flex TE and a FB/TE in the box.

Inside zone – Bread and butter, Mama, what Tom Herman knows best. This is the staple run play between the tackles of the Longhorn offense. It’s a sort of mano a mano scheme with the OL all taking a zone step in the same direction and looking to control the defenders in their respective zone while utilizing double teams to clear out one or more DL. The goal is to control the line of scrimmage and create a push behind any or all double teams in order to generate a crease in between the tackles where there’s a push. This is downhill, smashmouth football.

field at once.

Dime – A personnel grouping with six defensive backs on the field at once.

Mac – In Todd Orlando’s modified 3-4 defense, the Mac is the “mike,” or middle linebacker, or strong inside linebacker.

Rover – In Todd Orlando’s modified 3-4 defense, the Rover is the the “will,” or weakside linebacker, or weak inside linebacker. However, Orlando also uses this position in the pass-rush like old school 3-4 teams would use the outside linebacker. This position regularly gets called upon to serve as the fourth pass-rusher and will hunt for a path to the QB between the tackles.

B-Backer – Often called the Buck in other defenses, the B-Backer serves as a 3-4 outside linebacker to the boundary or to the weak side, determined by where the most receivers are. B-Backer plays up on the line but standing up and will often rush the edge or set it against the run. However, when Orlando brings the rover the Bbacker will drop back and serves as more of a weakside linebacker.

Outside zone – Similar to inside zone except the OL take wider lateral steps and double teams don’t occur as often save for on the perimeter. The goal with this play is to attack off tackle on the edge with the wider, lateral steps aiming to spread the defense out and either win the edge or create a horizontal crease for the RB to cutback through. Texas primarily uses outside zone as a QB run play with the RB helping to set the edge for the QB.

Power – Double team the tackle, kick out the DE/OLB on the edge, and pull the backside guard between the kick out and the double team to serve as a lead blocker. Power is another classic downhill, smashmouth way to run the football. Before hiring Tom Herman, Urban Meyer built his offenses more around power but then Herman convinced him to lean more on inside zone.

Counter – Counter is generally the exact same concept as power but on “power” the offense typically uses a FB/TE to kick out the DE/ OLB on the edge and pulls the guard to lead. In “counter” the pulling guard executes the kick out block and the TE/FB becomes the guy leading into the hole. There’s also the now ubiquitous “GT counter” where there’s no TE or FB involved and instead the backside guard

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Nickel – A personnel grouping with five defensive backs on the

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It’s a sort of DE/OLB hybrid position but with much more emphasis on linebacker tasks than Texas’ Buck had under previous defensive coaches.

F-Backer/Nickel – The F-backer is the outside linebacker who aligns to the field or towards the passing strength for Texas. Because it’s much more of a coverage position, Texas uses a nickel DB here but that player still has to help set the edge at times and at others he needs to be able to man up in coverage on a slot receiver.

Joker – In Texas’ dime or “lightning” package the B-backer position is replaced by another nickel/safety defender. That player may serve as a linebacker on the edge like a nickel or B-backer would or he may play as a robber or “Aztec” safety in the middle of the field. That alignment is maybe best described as a Tampa 2 middle linebacker if that player started plays at depth in the deep middle of the field.

Lightning Package/3-2-6 – Texas’ typical dime package which utilizes three DL like the base defense, the mac and rover, and then plays a nickel and dime safety at the two OLB positions. The original Todd Orlando lightning package was a third down, pass-rushing set

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Todd Orlando

that utilized a DE inside at the nose tackle spot and then bumped the

ditional “over” and “under” fronts of yesteryear. The defense puts the

B-backer down to serve as a stand-up DE and replaced the B-backer

3-technique to the same side of the RB in the B-gap to fill the cutback

with a safety. They still utilize that passing down defense.

and allow the DE outside him to play the QB on a zone-read play or

Tite Front – The preferred defensive front of the Todd Orlando de-

else help contain the cutback. Opposite and across from the RB the nose tackle lines up in a 2i-technique on the inside eye of the guard

fense. The tite front goes 4-0-4, meaning two 4i-technique DEs and

to prevent him from getting a good run at the linebackers. The design

a 0-technique nose tackle. The design of the tite front is to account

is to encourage and then stuff the cutback that is common to inside

for three out of the four gaps between the tackles so that the eight

zone teams.

stand-up defenders can play off the ball or widen out with spread offenses. The technique of the DL is aggressive but they are primarily

0-Tech – A nose tackle who lines head up across the center. Texas

being used to fill interior gaps so that RBs have to run laterally where

plays with a 0-tech nose in their 4-0-4 “tite” front. He fills the A-gap

speedy defenders can run them down.

behind where the center moves unless he gets a call to slant and

4i – 4i is a defensive end alignment where the DE puts his face-

take a particular gap.

mask on the inside eye of the offensive tackle. In Texas’ defense the

1-Tech – 1-Tech is a defensive tackle alignment where the nose

4i-technique DE plays the B-gap against the run and looks to get

lines up to the outside shoulder of the center normally in a four-man

outside of the OT if it’s a pass-rushing situation unless he has the

front.

nickel or B-backer coming off the edge.

3-Tech – 3-tech is a defensive tackle alignment where the DT lines

G Front – A 4-2-5 defensive front designed to stop spread offenses

up to the outside shoulder of either guard normally in a four-man

that rely on the inside zone running play. The G front blends the tra-

front.

2019 Season Preview

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READY TO PLAY A LEADING ROLE

BY MIKE BLACKWELL

The film is Last Chance U meets Friday Night Lights, minus the blue language: dramatic lighting, mood music, poetic camera work, intense and often poignant conversations sprinkled with the five-star football glory that was Brandon Jones in high school.

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2019 Season Preview

photos by Will Gallagher

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T

he Texas safety was the subject of a documentary a

Those words resonated even more when his father passed

few years back entitled, On An Island: Being Bran-

away, when Brandon was in seventh grade. He hears them

don Jones.

still.

Some folks might see it as a bit presumptuous for an athlete

Jones’ career at Nacogdoches was one his coach, Bobby

to be the subject of a documentary prior to leaving high

Reyes, could only imagine he would ever see when he got

school, but Jones has proven to be a more than a little bit

into the coaching business oh-so-many years ago. Jones

worthy as a documentary topic.

was a high school All-American and a two-time all-state performer. He played in the 2016 Under Armour All-America

And he’s hoping to solidify his film worthiness even more in

Game; he was defensive player of the year in Texas as a

this, his senior, season.

high school senior.

First scene, and, action...

He was also a track athlete, taking turns in the 100 meters, the 4x100 meters and the 4x200 meters.

Jones’ story is certainly worthy of celluloid. His football life began at an extremely young age, when he’d carry the

Reyes was singing his praises on film long before Jones left

football for big plays at minimum, with touchdowns being the

high school.

rule rather than the exception on most days.

“The big thing about Brandon is he’s got all of the physical He hears to this day the words of his father, Bert Jones, who

tools,” Reyes said. “I mean he’s 6-0 and 205 pounds...he

encouraged him and told him how special he was, and how

benches 315 and clean-lifts 300, but yet he runs a 4.38 40. I

special he could be.

mean, you don’t get many guys like that.”

But as the documentary showed, there is much more to Jones than simply his athletic prowess.

“You throw in a kid that makes good grades, that never gets in any trouble, a kid that everybody likes, a kid that’s got character...we’ll that’s one big ball,” said Reyes. “That’s the best ball you could have because...you just don’t have anything missing.”

Reyes estimated that “65 or 70” coaches visited Nacogdoches to see Jones, who ultimately narrowed his college

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choices to Texas, Baylor, Alabama, Texas A&M and LSU. The documentary, in fact, was a production of TexAgs, undoubtedly created with the hope that Jones would ultimately land in College Station.

The hope became nope for the Aggies.

Instead, Jones chose Texas, which made then-Longhorn coach Charlie Strong a very happy man. The Longhorns’ current head coach, Tom Herman, is certainly happy with the decision Jones made.

He’s also happy that Jones has bought into the coach’s, umm, enthusiasm for keeping his player hydrated. During Big 12 Media Days, Jones told a story that clearly illustrates his dedication to the program.

“I set my alarm at 3:15 every morning and go pee, drink two water bottles and go back to sleep,” said the hard-hitting, and extremely hydrated, Jones. “When I wake up, I hold that pee in until I get to the hydration test.”

But seriously, two bottles of water at 3:15 in the morning?

“The first one goes down like a charm,” Jones said. “The second one...I struggle with that second one. I’m not going to lie to you.”

Jones doesn’t struggle with much. He enters his final season at Texas on the Bronco Nagurski Award list, an honor given to the nation’s best defensive player, and he shares that distinction with teammate and fellow safety Caden Sterns.

After an All-Big 12 honorable mention season that saw him finish fourth on the team in tackles (with 70) in 2018, Jones, who toyed with turning professional after last season, is

poised for his final run as a Longhorn.

“I got really good feedback from the NFL, but with my injury (last year) I felt I had more to prove not only to myself, but to my team as well,” Jones said. “I see where this team is headed and I want to be a part of something great. Getting my degree from The University of Texas was a huge thing to both myself and my mom, and I know that will take me further in life than football.

“I’m so very grateful for the opportunity to play at such a prestigious level and want to finish what we’ve started.”

He’ll have to finish what he started on a defensive team that’s very young, but will be anchored by the Jones-Sterns safety combo that might very well be the best in the country.

“You can tell from practice the type of guys they are,” Jones says of the young guns he’ll be directing in 2019. “Obviously the skill set is there. But being a younger guy, a mistake Jean Delance

2019 Season Preview

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always creeps into your head. That’s the big thing that people

12; you are going to face elite guys every single week, so just

worry about, they don’t want to mess up the team or do any-

being able to have confidence and just trust your abilities and

thing that will put them in that dark shadow, so confidence is

know what you’re capable of doing is the biggest thing.

a huge thing.

“Every play is not perfect, so I think what separates the elite “You have to be able to trust your training, that’s something

from the good players is having that short term memory and

coach Herman tells us all the time. Just do what you’re

being able to bounce back and recuperate after something

coached to do.”

bad happens. Because it’s going to happen, you’re going to have adversity. Everybody does. How you bounce back really

If Jones was coached to get turnovers, well, 2018 was

shows what kind of player you are.”

certainly successful for him: he finished the season with two Another trait that shows the kind of player you are is leadership, a trait that the serious Jones has in abundance.

Final scene, and, action...

“I think being a vocal leader is very important, especially for a senior,” Jones said. “I’m going to take it upon myself, being a senior. With my class, we really don’t have that many seniors. That’s another reason why I chose to stay, because I want to be able to show these guys the ropes and be that vocal leader. It’s something that I always want to improve on, I’ve always wanted to be a guy who leads by example with my actions.”

If his obvious talents are combined with that leadership, Jones could have a season for the ages. interceptions and two fumble recoveries. He’s hoping some of those numbers - and a lot of the quiet swagger he exudes -

“I think we are capable of a lot of things,” Jones says. “If my

rubs off on his young teammates.

dad was here now, I think he’d be real proud of me. I think he’d be like, ‘I told you so.’ Since I was about 6 or 7, he al-

So Brandon, what is the key for a defensive back to succeed

ways told me, ‘You’ve got a bright future ahead of you.’”

in the pass-first league that is the Big 12?

And, cut...roll credits...

“I would say just confidence,” Jones says. “Especially in this day and age, there’s a lot of man coverage, whether you’re playing corner or safety. And there’s a lot of speed in the Big

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Kraken_Texas_mechanical.indd 1

5/19/11 2:17:09 PM

JUST THE by

Mike Blackwell

Of all the football position groups, the offensive line is the most honest when it comes to talking to the press.

Usually without exception.

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FACTS

- just the facts -

Q

uarterbacks are often easily-programmed verbal robots,

“I worked out and ate a lot,” says Cosmi, the versatile 303-pound

Baker Mayfield and Johnny Football the most obvious

Texas linemen who will be a key component to his team’s offense this

exceptions to this rule.

season.

Running backs can on occasion speak the complete truth, but they

Like most offensive linemen, Cosmi is not only very honest, but also

get hit on just about every play, so they are careful to avoid black-

very smart. Most folks who know will claim that offensive linemen

board material.

are the smartest players on the field, with changes in assignments happening in that maddening few seconds just prior to the snap.

Receivers? They have a very skewed version of the truth; they are

Intelligence is mandatory here.

often bat-s*&% crazy.

And while we’re on the subject of honesty, we cannot really speak of Defensive linemen? They just want everybody around them to shut

the Texas offensive line without telling the entire, brutal truth about

up so they can work. Linebackers? They are just defensive linemen

the caliber of Longhorn linemen in the last, oh, 12-14 years or so. It’s

with more swagger.

not pretty. And that’s why - honestly - the 2019 offensive line is quite likely the most talented O-line in these parts since number 10 was

Defensive backs? See the commentary pertaining to receivers in the

beautifully protected at DKR.

previous paragraph.

Long before the Forty Acres was known as DBU, the Longhorns And then there is offensive linemen...

were known for their road-grader offensive linemen. Names like Jerry

So tell us, Sam Cosmi, University of Texas left tackle: what did you

Sizemore, Dan Neil and Leonard Davis. Justin Blalock. Bob McKay.

do this summer?

Doug Dawson. Bob Simmons. Bryan Millard.

Sam Cosmi (52) and Derek Kerstetter (68)

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- just the facts -

Blalock played on the most accomplished line in decades, with dudes

‘Hey, if you’re coming, you need to bring some dough.’ We were able

like Lyle Sendlein and Casey Studdard blocking for Vince, Inc.

to get it under $250, which is very surprising, and we were able to feed everybody. We just wanted to have the guys over and have that

But that era was followed by a dark time, indeed. In a period that

camaraderie, it was real fun.”

ended when Connor Williams was drafted last season by the Dallas Cowboys, only Williams and Tony Hills were picked in the previous

While Cosmi has no qualms about sharing his roommates’ dietary

11 National Football League drafts as UT offensive linemen. It wasn’t

habits, it is the senior Shackelford who is being mentioned most

pretty.

prominently in the national press prior to the season. He has been

But now, in Tom Herman’s third year as the man in charge of the Texas program, most are looking at the Longhorns’ offensive line and pegging it as one of the team’s primary areas of strength.

It’s been a loooooooong time since anyone has said that about the Texas offensive front.

Cosmi can be accurately described as one of the stalwarts of the group, along with center Zach Shackelford. Derek Kerstetter, who played tackle last season, will likely be the starting right guard when Louisiana Tech comes to town. Junior Angilau (left guard) and Denzel Okafor (right tackle) would probably round out the starting group if the season started now.

And not only is that probable starting lineup solid, but for the first time in approximately forever the group actually has some - some - depth.

Georgia Tech transfer Parker Braun is in the mix for big-time playing time, and Reese Moore and Christian Jones are ready to go as well.

Zach Shackelford

And as Cosmi shared with the press earlier this fall, the group is not only talented and deep, but also close - i.e., honestly, they love to bond while dining.

named to the preseason Rimington Trophy watch list for the second consecutive season - that award is given to the “most outstanding

So who does the grilling at the O-line house, Sam?

center” in Division I football.

“Shack and Kerstetter, they both grill,” says Cosmi. “We have grill

Shackelford has also been named to the watch list of the Outland

competitions, so it’s really fun. We go to HEB right down the road, get

Trophy, given each year to the player voted by the Football Writers

some steaks and some pork, different things like that. We actually

Association of America as the best interior offensive lineman in col-

had an O-line cookout, we had the whole unit come to the house and

lege football.

we cooked for them.

Honestly, expectations for the offensive line are higher than they’ve “Made some mac and cheese, pizza, you name it, we had it. We

been in quite some time.

split the bill, that’s kind of how it works. We tell whoever is coming,

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- just the facts -

“I’m not going to put labels on it, but we want to be the best of the

“Phenomenal players,” Cosmi said. “I enjoy blocking for them I can

best,” Shackelford said. “In order to do that we have to continue to

tell you that. I always talk to them, mess around in the locker room,

work hard, stay accountable, get together with the guys in the locker

stuff like that. Ingram, I’ve actually eaten out with him a couple of

room and be cohesive.

times; they are really good guys, I really love blocking for them. I tell them all the time that my joy comes out of seeing them get touch-

“We need to build the camaraderie to where if I look to my left or my

downs.”

right or look back at Sam (Ehlinger), there should be no doubt in my mind that we’re going to convert or whatever we need to do on that

Herman will also get joy if his team can develop offensive line depth

play, because we love each other that much.”

with his O-line coach, Herb Hand. Someone in a recent press conference mentioned the fact that in Mack Brown’s tenure, there were

That camaraderie exists not only between the offensive linemen and

times when the Longhorns would use 7-8 linemen almost inter-

each other, but also to the vast array of skill position players who,

changeably.

“That’s nirvana, so if that’s the case, I’m happy for Coach Brown that he got to live that life for all those years,” Herman said with a smile. “I think we are probably at six right now, with the five guys that started camp and Parker Braun. Tope Imade is making progress, and the two young tackles are making progress, Reese Moore and Christian Jones. If we played tomorrow they wouldn’t be ready, but I’m pleased with their trajectory.”

Herman also admitted that Cosmi and Shackelford are a little further up the road in development than the others of the projected starting group.

“You can tell there is a marked difference in experience level and savviness with Cosmi and Shackelford versus the other three,” Herman says.

“They’re on pace, they’re on target.

Denzel Okafor

I’m pleased with their progress.”

That progress has been a long time

with aid from the O-line of course, could make Texas one of the most

coming for the burnt orange, but if Herman and the “big uglies” up

dynamic offenses in the country.

front are right, 2019 could be when the trend of average to belowaverage offensive line play comes to an end.

Cosmi was recently asked about the running back tandem of Keaontay Ingram and Jordan Whittington, and not surprisingly, his answer

Honestly.

was totally honest.

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just the facts

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2019 Season Preview

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2019 TEXAS L

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photos by Will Gallagher

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LONGHORNS

BY JOE COOK and JUSTIN WELLS

2019 Season Preview

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QUARTERBACK

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Sam Ehlinger

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

For the first time this decade, Texas enters a season with quarterback

Texas should once again have an offensive line that allows Ehlinger

as a team strength rather than a team liability.

time in the pocket to process and throw. His main adjustment this year will be learning to live without the 6-foot-4 running-back-turned-

The strength is at the top with Sam Ehlinger. He’s an unquestioned

receiver who Ehlinger could almost constantly rely on to be open and

leader not just in the QB room, but the entirx`e locker room.

to catch whatever was near him.

The questions surrounding Ehlinger are more along the lines of “just

Life without Humphrey will be different, but life with Johnson should

how good could he be if he stays healthy?” The questions sur-

still be good.

rounding backups Casey Thompson and Roschon Johnson wonder “what exactly do they bring to the table if they were needed to win a game?”

There’s less combined experience than last season following the departure of Shane Buechele, and one fewer option is available with the transfer of Cameron Rising. However, quality of play at the top should be a constant if not an area of possible excellence, while younger players no longer reside in a QB room where the fate of the team is thrust upon them within their first year on campus.

No. 11 | Sam Ehlinger JR-2L | 6-3 - 230

2018: 275/425 (64.7 percent), 3292 yards, 25 TD, 5 INT 164 carries, 482 yards, 16 TDs It took several games into the 2018 season for it to become evident that Sam Ehlinger was at the minimum going to be a steady presence at quarterback for the Longhorns.

It took until Oklahoma for him to start being recognized as one of the better quarterbacks in the country.

Sam Ehlinger

Credit Tom Herman and Ehlinger himself for not giving up on his sophomore signal-caller after another season-opening loss to Maryland. Ehlinger was rewarded with confidence even after a less than

Of course, the oft-repeated stat of Texas having no plays of more

confidence inspiring performance, and parlayed that into an impres-

than 50 yards will be a major focus among the media, and likely

sive five game run that included a win over Oklahoma.

among the team as well. Winning comes a little easier when scoring drives are three plays with a home run play to cap it. Ehlinger’s deep

Ehlinger made significant gains as a passer last season in large part

accuracy is good enough – for every seam route he missed, he found

due to improved understanding of the offense. Throughout the course

Humphrey or Johnson seemingly just as often for a YAC-less, jump

of the season, Texas employed the “hurry up and wait” approach

ball reception. It needs to start turning into YAC, and some of that

to no-huddle that prevented opponents from substituting, but still

responsibility falls on the QB.

allowed Texas to control time of possession and get a look at what the defense was doing. That’s where Ehlinger did well to identify the

Ehlinger was a major part of the run game last year with 164 carries

defense and put Texas into the right play.

and 16 rushing touchdowns. He was the red zone offense for Texas’ most important games logging 15+ carries against USC, Oklahoma,

Credit is also due to an improved offensive line, and to the work of

Texas Tech, Oklahoma once again, and Georgia.

top receivers Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Collin Johnson. That large duo often helped Ehlinger as they were receivers that just needed to

Stan Drayton said recently the Texas coaches would be “the dumbest

be in the vicinity of a throw rather than a direct target.

coaches in America” if they abandoned the QB run game. The threat of Ehlinger’s legs on bruising downhill runs and the underrated shifti-

That isn’t to lash out at Ehlinger’s accuracy. It is not a negative, but

ness he possesses are too good to waste. However, Drayton said he

it could always use improvement. Texas needs more of this from

knows the RBs need to be able to take some of the hits and pressure

Ehlinger…

in the red zone away from Ehlinger.

2019 Season Preview

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 8 | Casey Thompson FR-RS | 6-1 - 195

After temporarily venturing into the NCAA Transfer Portal, Casey Thompson enters his redshirt freshman season as the quarterback one play away from having to enter a game.

Thompson ran the scout team last season and though the depth chart didn’t go that far, he was likely the fourth QB behind Ehlinger, Shane Buechele, and Cameron Rising.

A big question facing Texas at the quarterback position this year is considering Ehlinger’s track record of missing a handful of games to injury each season, can Texas win games with Casey Thompson at quarterback?

In Texas fans’ only public look at Thompson during the 2019 OrangeWhite game, Thompson’s passing game was up and down along with every Texas quarterback’s that day due to driving wind. Thompson wasn’t helped by having to field poor snaps behind the second team offensive line, turning in a 14-for-31 effort for 83 yards while adding 42 yards on 15 carries and the game’s only touchdown.

Casey Thompson

He accurately delivered several throws during the scrimmage, including one with pressure in his face.

Both Ehlinger and Texas need to find the right balance for when to

Thompson provides an athletic backup quarterback whose elusive-

turn Ehlinger the QB into Ehlinger the FB. Shane Buechele provided

ness might surpass Ehlinger’s. Though he’s yet to see in-game ac-

as good of a security blanket at backup QB a Power 5 team could

tion, he was able to acclimate himself to the offense and the college

have last season. Instead of a multi year veteran as backup QB,

game through one season as the scout team QB.

that responsibility falls to someone who has yet to see live action at Texas.

Whether his playing time this season is when other backups are in with him or when surrounded by the first team offense will go a long

The preview magazines all have put Ehlinger just below the level of

way in determining what type of season the Longhorns have.

Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence and Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa. Many media members place Oklahoma’s Jalen Hurts on Ehlinger’s tier. .

All of those contemporaries are in offenses that use RPOs as ways

No. 2 | Roschon Johnson FR-HS | 6-2 - 220

to identify soft spots in the defense. Texas plans to utilize RPOs more in their offense this year. Ehlinger’s aptitude for those wrinkles could

Johnson joins a QB room far less crowded than when he signed

both save him from hits and put him in even better position to be in

his LOI. As the focal point of the offense at Port Neches-Groves, he

award conversation with that group.

showed solid durability when he was asked to win game after game on The Reservation.

Ehlinger has a target on his back that former Oklahoma and Louisiana Tech quarterbacks have tried to hit. He’s brushed them off.

He’s grown to 220 pounds, which should only make him more durable and able to run between the tackles when his number his

Confidence isn’t a question, and ability isn’t much of one either.

called. He was used on the ground in high school almost as often as

Ehlinger’s 2019 will be measured on if he stayed on the field, won

he was asked to throw the ball. He should have ample opportunity

games, and lead a more explosive offense while still retaining its

to grow as a passer while leading the scout team, a normal role for a

efficiency.

quarterback not slated to see the field.

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RUNNING BACK

Keaontay Ingram 2019 Season Preview

27

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

Longhorn running backs enter 2019 with the responsibility of taking

Now, he’s one of three main running backs who are similarly sized

some pressure off their quarterback in the running game.

and could be the most explosive one of the bunch. Johnson ran with the second team paired with Whittington behind Ingram and Young

Sam Ehlinger was fourth in the Big 12 in rushing attempts last sea-

for most of spring. He’s definitely good enough to get carries when

son behind three running backs; David Montgomery of Iowa State,

healthy. Is he good enough to beat out Whittington and Young to get

Alex Barnes of Kansas State, and Tre Watson of Texas.

those carries or find a role in this offense?

The position was steady but rarely spectacular in 2018, with only one 100-yard rushing game between Watson and freshman Keaontay Ingram (Ingram vs. Baylor).

There were good performances from running backs like Watson’s effort against Georgia, Ingram’s outing at Oklahoma State, and the duo’s combined efforts versus Iowa State. But when it was time for games to be decided, the ball was normally placed in the hands of Ehlinger.

While last year’s efforts were steady, this year’s running back stable has the capability to be an improved unit and take over the running game. Not only is Ingram heading into his sophomore season more physically developed, but ultra-talented freshman Jordan Whittington has found a home with the running backs, the explosive Kirk Johnson is healthy for the first time in several seasons, and veteran junior Daniel Young provides a physical change of pace that is versatile enough to play every down.

With uncertainties at other positions, Texas could deploy multiple

Daniel Young

members of this unit on the field at the same time. It’s a look they used sparingly in 2017, but with increased talent and versatility at the position it seems like an avenue the coaches might pursue.

No. 32 – Daniel Young JR-2L – 6-0 – 220

No. 28 | Kirk Johnson SR-2L | 6-0 – 215

2018: 42 carries, 153 yards, 3.6 yards per carry After serving as one of the team’s leading rushers in his freshman season in 2017, Young found himself behind a grad transfer and a

After struggling to even see the field due to injury (seven games in

true freshman in 2018 and found his carries essentially cut in half.

his first three seasons), Kirk Johnson played 10 games in 2018 as a

His production also suffered, as he averaged just 3.6 yards per rush

special teams contributor. Though he wasn’t able to notch any carries

compared to 4.6 the year prior.

due to the lack of blowout games, and his standing behind Watson, Ingram, and Young on the depth chart, it was encouraging to see that

Playing time might be tough to find for Young. Ingram seems to be

someone who had gone through so much in his Texas career from a

entrenched as the starter, while Whittington and Johnson provide

family that bleeds burnt orange was able to make it onto the field and

more explosive options.Young had the role as the more powerful

contribute.

“closer” back late in the season. Now, Ingram, Whittington, and Johnson all possess similar size to Young with plenty more explosiveness.

The elder Johnson brother participated in spring drills and the Orange-White game and notched 22 yards on seven carries in ad-

After averaging 4.6 yards per carry behind a truly abysmal line in

dition to one reception for eight yards. For the first time since 2015,

2017, there are signs that Young can be someone the coaches can

Kirk Johnson is ready to play running back.

rely on when necessary, particularly late in games.

The last time Johnson carried the football in a game was in the final

If he is the talent floor at the position, that’s a sign of the talent that’s

game of 2015 when he had three carries for 32 yards. He showed

starting to be accumulated within the program and how the staff likely

explosiveness seen on his high school film and looked to be one of

feels about the running back position. It is an upgrade from the talent

the bright stars of the future before he was bitten by the injury bug.

floor of the position last year.

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 26 – Keaontay Ingram SO-1L – 6-0 – 220

2018: 142 carries, 708 yards, 5.0 yards per carry, 3 TDs, 27 receptions, 170 yards, 2 TDs “I’ve got to put on some weight. I’ve got to get up to 220, 225.” Those were Ingram’s words in the locker room at the Superdome following the Sugar Bowl. This offseason, he put on some weight and got up to 220.

Tom Herman often mentions that the effects of strength and conditioning lead to “armor” on the body. As a true freshman, Ingram’s talent and comfort in a zone blocking scheme were evident. But he constantly seemed to be on a pitch count, sometimes disappearing because of a nagging hip issue he had throughout the season.

Ingram didn’t have the “armor” last season at 205 pounds, but he did have a steady grad transfer in Tre Watson ahead of him and a bigger

Kirk Johnson

back with him in Daniel Young. Now, armored up, Ingram likely is the bell cow in an offense that wants to take the pressure off of Sam Ehlinger in the run game.

A larger, more physically mature Ingram who can still maintain his quickness at 225 pounds should see his workload increase. He rushed for 708 yards last year on 142 carries, a carry total third behind Ehlinger and Watson. He was able to still gain 5.0 yards per carry.

More carries and more armor should lead to more yardage. Expect him to be a guy defenses have to begin to plan for after putting so much focus on Ehlinger. He should hit 1000 yards.

Westbrook as a freshman, it’s seems a foregone conclusion that he will play a significant role in the 2019 offense.

Although the details of playing running back aren’t as intricate as some other positions, Whittington will have to adjust to learning landmarks rather than taking snaps and running forward. He’ll have to understand his place in the offense especially when meshing with quarterbacks on play action. He’ll have to pass protect in live action likely for the first time in his career.

That’s still a steep learning curve, but the physical learning curve might be one he can manage. Whittington is listed at 215 pounds, but

No. 21 – Jordan Whittington FR-HS – 6-1 – 215

A question I’ve seen pop up a few times over the course of the offseason is “why are you all pumping Jordan Whittington, who hasn’t played a single snap at Texas, up so much?”

Every single Texas coach and player in a public media setting, plus Inside Texas sources, have spoken about how a prospect originally

Drayton also mentioned at THSCA coaching school he has gotten up to 220 pounds, same as Keaontay Ingram.

It’s much easier to play early as a skill position player than as a lineman, but it still isn’t easy. However, Whittington has garnered so much attention and impressed so early that he could step into a room with experienced players and immediately earn a decent number of snaps in his first year.

Redshirt probability: Unlikely

slated to play wide receiver, who put on a record-setting performance on the biggest stage, who delivered a state championship to not only a high school but an entire town with championship expectations laid upon him has adjusted to a brand new position faster than anyone expected and has thrust himself into playing time conversations in his first year at Texas.

Impressed?

No. 24 – Derrian Brown FR-HS – 5-10 – 180

One of Texas football’s best comeback stories will have to wait until 2020 to begin in earnest, but that’s all secondary. The fact that he is set to be with the team this fall is nothing short of remarkable.

Redshirt probability: Certain

After Stan Drayton said Whittington reminded him of Villanova’s Brian

2019 Season Preview

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WIDE RECEIVER

Collin Johnson

2019 Season Preview

30

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS Texas has a wide cast of characters available to try to make up for

be asked to increase his production and possibly move around the

the loss of Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s 1176 receiving yards and nine

field.

touchdowns from 2018. That group includes experienced seniors, talented youth, and fast freshmen.

That stat-line shows Duvernay was very effective in finding space on intermediate routes. The average of 13.3 YPC is indicative that he

So who’s it going to be?

could be reliably found for yardage, but rarely for explosive yardage.

No. 1 | John Burt

Several of Texas’ longest plays of the year came on Duvernay touch-

SR-4L | 6-3 – 205

down receptions against Maryland, West Virginia, and one of his two

2018 Stats: 1 reception, 9 yards

at Texas Tech. Several more opportunities for longer plays fell to the ground just out of Duvernay’s hands.

In what is considered to be one of the more talented and deeper positions on the team, John Burt is the only member of Drew Mehringer

Texas needs to improve on explosive plays, and Duvernay working

and Corby Meekins’ position room to garner All-American honors.

to connect with Ehlinger on longer routes should lead that to happen.

However, another way for Duvernay to open up more explosive plays

It was in track.

is to make it easier to get the ball in his hands and move him closer to the QB.

That’s somewhat indicative of Burt’s Texas career. He showed up strong in his freshman year in 2015, then somewhere along the way

The coaching staff will tinker with Duvernay at slot this fall. They

caught a case of the drops and was bitten by the injury bug over the

already know they can rely on him to be an option at Z. Why not see

next few seasons, struggling to find starter’s snaps behind Dorian

if he could excel at H especially with lots of unproven youth at H?

Leonard, Lorenzo Joe, and Devin Duvernay.

Plus there’s the veteran presence of Burt and the impressive physical tools of Brennan Eagles also available at Z.

Burt is back for his fifth year after redshirting in 2018 partially due to depth chart reasons and partially in order to heal from any lagging

Duvernay gave slot a try for Herman prior to the 2017 season, but it

ailments. The coaches wouldn’t have brought him back if they didn’t

wasn’t something he showed he could do better than Humphrey or

see something worth bringing back, even if that’s just to set a high

Reggie Hemphill-Mapps.

floor for the Z or X position.

Now, it may be what he’s tasked to do in his final season. Duvernay He makes sense at Z. He’s got track speed in order to create separa-

has a thick, running back build at 5-foot-11, 210 pounds. If he can

tion downfield. He makes sense at X. He’s worked on route-running

show he can move laterally just as well as he can in a straight line, it

for the past four years, and has height necessary to win some of the

could allow for Texas to deploy a unit with three more-than-capable

matchups simply based on measurables and ball placement.

receivers on the field at the same time.

He provides an athletic swing receiver with plenty of leadership

If he can’t hold up to the demands of the position, he will not only

experience.

have to continue to be a reliable target at Z, but also a target that will catch some of the not-as-accurate passes both on intermediate

After this season, it’s possible for Burt to be a five-year football let-

routes and down the field.

terman, conference track champion, track All-American, along with being a Silver Spur. Quite a time on the Forty for the Floridian.

No. 6 | Devin Duvernay SR-3L | 5-11 – 210

No. 9 | Collin Johnson SR-3L | 6-6 – 220

2018 Stats: 68 receptions, 985 yards, 7 TDs

2018 Stats: 41 receptions, 546 yards, 4 TDs

This is Collin Johnson’s contract year.

The above 2018 stat-line says a lot about Duvernay’s season. He

He returns for his senior season after falling just short of the 1000

was entrenched as the third option behind two receivers who had

yard mark in 2018. He has his sights on being an early round pick,

very productive years. He was third in just about everything; yards,

winning a championship for Texas, and enjoying one final season

receptions, average yards per catch, and touchdowns.

with his brother, Kirk.

While Collin Johnson will join Duvernay as senior presences in the

Johnson might already be one of the best jumpball wide receivers in

receiver room, Lil’Jordan Humphrey is off to the NFL. Duvernay will

college football. How he improves the other facets of his game will

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 13 | Brennan Eagles SO-1L | 6-4 – 225

2018 Stats: 1 reception, 35 yards Technically, Eagles started his first game as a true freshman at Maryland. His number of starts in 2018 matched his amount of receptions, just one against Tulsa.

Eagles struggled some with the physical adjustment to the college game last season, but found himself just behind Devin Duvernay at the top of the depth chart for Z. Heading into this season, Eagles’ spring and summer were so good the coaches had to find a place for him on the field and accordingly moved Duvernay to H. Eagles possessed great athletic measurements in high school with a sub 4.00 shuttle at 6-foot-3, and a 22.17 200m north of 200 pounds during his junior year. If he’s Devin Duvernay

caught up to the speed and physicality needed at the college game, which it appears he has with the coaches giving him a shot and trying Duvernay inside, he could be another member of Texas’ 2018 class that contributes

determine just how high he goes in April.

early.

He’s already solidified himself as the X receiver for this team, with John Burt, Malcolm Epps, and Marcus Washington behind him. However, like with Duvernay, Texas has tinkered with him working some routes from the inside in order to create favorable matchups.

His performance on the outside and potentially in the slot will be tied to his ability to create horizontal separation. His 6-foot-6 frame already allows him to get vertical separation, just look at the Big 12 Championship game, USC, etc.

He can also gather in tough throws because of his physical stature, but often times there are defenders right there in his hip pocket. If he can create more room to operate via speed, quickness, and technique, he could create more YAC and more big plays.

It’s a big year for Collin Johnson. He knows it. His video series shows a glimpse of the work he’s done in order to make this his best season yet. Without Lil’Jordan Humphrey, eyes will focus on him early. Proving time.

No. 86 | Jordan Pouncey SO-SQ | 6-2 – 205

Pouncey has been on the depth chart at several different positions during his time at Texas. He is mainly an option at the slot, and could see action this year, but Smith and Duvernay provide a level of speed and athleticism Pouncey might not be able to replicate.

No. 14 – Joshua Moore SO-1L – 6-1 – 180

2018 Stats: 7 receptions, 53 yards, 1 TD Moore found a home behind Lil’Jordan Humphrey at H last season, and showed a glimpse of ability there with a handful of receptions in four of the first five games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury.

Moore seemed to be first in line to replace Humphrey if he could win a preseason battle with Jake Smith. Now, Moore is working some at the ZWR position.

Texas demands great blocking from their WRs, and Duvernay at Z last season was often tasked with being one of the lead blockers for Humphrey on screens. One of the main questions surrounding Moore at Z at 180 pounds is can he be a good enough blocker to keep that as a feature of the offense?

For slot, Moore possesses good quickness and athletic ability, and his lone 2018 TD reception showed an adjustment to the ball in the air. However, he lost the opportunity to redshirt last year after playing in six games, and enters 2019 barely more experienced than a redshirt freshman that hit the four game ceiling.

The coaches will need to find what position Moore fits best at, and how he best fits with other receivers on the field. Offseason S&C

2019 Season Preview

32

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS work will go a long way in determining what Moore is able to do this season.

No. 16 | Jake Smith FR-HS | 6-0 – 200

No. 83 | Al’Vonte Woodard FR-RS | 6-2 – 210

Tom Herman said following the Oklahoma game last year they needed more team speed. He probably had Jake Smith in mind when he said that.

Following a redshirt in 2018, Woodard enters camp nursing a foot injury.

A national award winning receiver, the main questions for Smith will be how quickly can he learn the position, and how well can he adjust

In high school, he showed an ability to be a “throw it deep and let

from playing against Arizona private school competition to not just the

your guy go catch it” player. Texas seems to have a few of those

LSUs and Oklahomas, but even his own teammates on a day-to-day

guys with Duvernay, Eagles, and even Moore.

basis?

If he’s able to outperform any two of that trio, he could find himself

Speed is speed regardless of classification, and that elite speed

receiving snaps on offense. He could be a special teams contributor

should allow him to compete for early snaps at the slot position. It

this season with his experience in the program.

might even lend to some chances on special teams.

No. 85 | Malcolm Epps

No. 84 | Kennedy Lewis

FR-RS | 6-6 – 245

FR-HS | 6-3 – 200

2018 Stats: 1 reception, 18 yards Gifted athletically, Lewis should have an opportunity to redshirt this What to do with Malcolm Epps?

season and learn how to translate his physical attributes into football ability.

He’s easily the largest target on the team with 25 more pounds than Collin Johnson’s official weight, but he plays the same position as Johnson. Though Johnson could see some alignments that have him closer to the quarterback, he’s mostly going to be on the outside this season.

Inside simply doesn’t fit Epps’ skillset like it did for Humphrey. Epps should see backup snaps to Johnson or complementary snaps when Johnson aligns inside. He utilized not only the four game redshirt rule last season, but took advantage of his opportunity in the spring when Johnson was out with injury.

There is no defensive back in the Big 12 that can match his size, but most can easily outdo his speed.

Epps has to prove he has a skillset to be able to stay on the field between the 20s rather than just inside the red zone. He made a play in the spring game that suggests he might be able to.

No. 15 | Marcus Washington FR-HS | 6-2 – 200

Marcus Washington has the talent to play early, but with Johnson, Epps, and possibly Burt ahead of him, playing time might not be easy to come by. A red-shirt would benefit him in the long run but you’ll definitely want to get him some experience with the four game allotment. He’ll be competing to start in 2020.

Malcolm Epps

2019 Season Preview

33

OFFENSIVE LINE

Sam Cosmi

2019 Season Preview

34

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 56 | Zach Shackelford SR-3L | 6-4 – 305

Shackelford is a preseason All Big 12 selection and 2nd team All American preseason selection by Phil Steele and Athlon Sports.

The three-year letterman is the glue that holds the offensive line together. He is one of five team captains in 2019 and excels at the center position with athletisicm and balance.

A member of the class of 2016, Shackelford was coached by Bob Shipley at Belton HS. He has palyed 40 games and notched 27 career starts at Texas.

No. 52 | Sam Cosmi SO-1L | 6-7 – 300

The redshirt Sophomore offensive lineman will play left tackle this season, protecting Sam Ehlinger’s blind side.

At 6-7 and 300 pounds, the former 3-star athlete has

Zach Shackelford

been changed dramatically by strength coach Yancy McKnight and offensive line coach Herb Hand.

In 2018 he was named honorable mention Big XII Offensive Freshman of the Year -- an award that typically goes to a skill player -- and a Freshman All American by USA Today.

His good feet and overall versatility -- he can play all three positions on the line -- are his main strengths and he should continue to build on his successful freshman campaign in his sophomore season.

A third-year player with 24 games and 15 starts who has played every position on the line -- he’s the Swiss Army knife of the group with starts at right tackle, right guard, and backup duty at center.

In 2019 he will be the starting right guard, but he will likely play in several different spots as needed.

No. 73 | Parker Braun

SR- Grad Transfer | 6-3 – 300

No. 78 | Denzel Okafor JR-2L | 6-4 – 310

The redshirt Junior from Lewisville is back after redshirting in 2018 and will be the likely opening day starter at right tackle in 2019. He can also play right guard and left tackle and has 24 career games with four starts as a Longhorn.

Okafor is a very strong, athletic, point of attack blocker. He’s got pretty good feet and should hold up well in pass protection. A good prospect who should benefit and improve with game experience.

Pencilled as the starting left guard, Braun is a graduate transfer from Georgia Tech, where he started 32 games and was named first-team All-ACC the past two seasons.

Braun brings valuable experience and crediblity to the offensive line and should be a solid addition to the core of the team. At this point his run blocking is ahead of his pass protection, but he has made strides to improve his pass blocking in the pre-season.

No. 75 | Junior Angilau FR- RS | 6-6 – 300

No. 68 | Derek Kerstetter JR-2L | 6-5 – 300

The redshirt freshman from from Salt Lake City arrived at UT as a 4-star recruit with big expectations. Angilau is poised to make is mark along the offensive line this season.

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS prospect.

He combines a strong work ethic with a motor that is always set on high. Under the astute coaching of Herb Hand, Texas fans can exp-

After stints on the offensive and defensive fronts, he will provide solid

tect steady improvement from the talented Angilau.

depth for the offensive line this season.

No. 67 | Tope Imade

No. 70 | Christian Jones

A fourth-year lineman from Arlington Bowie, Amade provides depth

A redshirt freshman from Cypress Woods HS. The second-year line-

and leadership to the more experience offensive line in 2019. At

man earned all-district honors both on and off the field in high school.

JR- SQ | 6-6 – 350

FR- RS | 6-6 – 300

6-6, 350 pounds, Amade combines the size and strength of a quality The 6-6, 300 pounder is being trained at both tackle positions and is currently backing up Denzel Okafor at right tackle.

He also has the potential to move over to left tackle after Sam Cosmi moves on to the NFL.

No. 71 | J.P. Urquidez JR- SQ | 6-7 – 300

No. 55 | Willie Tyler SO- TR | 6-7 – 340

No. 74 | Rafiti Ghirmai FR- RS | 6-5 – 296

No. 76 | Reese Moore FR- RS | 6-7 – 295

No. 65 | Isaiah Hookfin FR- HS | 6-5 – 305

No. 72 | Tyler Johnson FR- HS | 6-6 – 315

No. 77 | Javonne Shepherd FR- HS | 6-6 – 315 Derek Kerstetter

Look for most of these players to redshirt unless injuries on the line push them into action.

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2019 Season Preview

37

TIGHT END

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Cade Brewer

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS A new tight end will take the field for Texas in 2019 after Andrew

enough to give Texas a better option than Garrett Gray. Blocking

Beck had a career year at the position in 2018.

was lacking as it was something he wasn’t often tasked with at Lake Travis. He became the option at tight end before an assort-

That career year was only 281 yards and two touchdowns, but

ment of circumstances removed him from that spot, most notably a

it was spread across all 14 games. Beck allowed the offense to

season ending knee injury.

remain in 11 personnel for most of Texas’ 10-4 campaign. He lined up in the backfield, attached, and split wide.

Brewer will need to be adept at blocking in order to be a legitimate threat at the position. If he can’t block at the level needed, he is far

Beck won’t be mistaken for one of the best tight ends in the

more limited in how he can help Texas.

country, though Big 12 coaches thought highly enough of Beck to bestow first team all-conference fullback honors on him. However,

This isn’t news to the junior Austinite. When asked at a recent

Beck was versatile enough to allow Texas to run a variety of plays

availability what he’s needed to work on most, Brewer responded

from a variety of formations without having to substitute.

“definitely my blocking.”

Entering 2019, Beck is on the New England Patriots and the four

The learning curve should begin to flatten out for a third year player

scholarship tight ends on the Texas roster have 11 career recep-

currently just under 250 pounds. The physical capability to be a

tions, and they’re all Cade Brewer’s.

good receiving threat is not in doubt. That’s what Brewer was best at in high school and what he continues to draw praise for.

Question marks surrounding the position are why Texas will likely run the offense using more 10 and 20 personnel than last season.

Y’s at Texas must be able to block between the tackles. Brewer’s ability to block will determine the role he has in Texas’ 2019 of-

That doesn’t mean Texas will abandon 11 personnel, as the Long-

fense.

horns motion the tight end all over the field to identify matchups and coverages. However, options at running back and receiver have more promising prospects for 2019 than tight end.

No. 81 | Reese Leitao SO-1L | 6-4 – 245

No. 80 | Cade Brewer

For the 2017 class, Leitao added another player at a position Texas

JR-2L | 6-4 – 250

where desperately needed more quality numbers.

After the second game of the 2018 season, Cade Brewer disap-

Leitao’s film at Jenks, one of Oklahoma’s best football programs,

peared.

shows him utilized as a receiver from alignments where Texas TEs often find themselves. He also showed an ability to block from an

Brewer logged one catch on a juke route spelling Beck for a series

in-line position, but his offensive highlights were a showcase of

against Maryland, and one catch for six yards against Tulsa. He

receiving talent more than one of blocking ability.

recorded no other stats the rest of the season.

His highlights also offered several minutes of film at defensive end, He was still a contributor on special teams, but Beck’s hold on the

which suggested Leitao was the type of player a strong high school

position meant Brewer’s opportunities with the offense were limited.

program found talented enough to contribute to both sides of ball, and willing to get involved in the dirty work in the trenches.

With no Beck, Brewer will be asked to serve as Texas’ first string Y. Leitao is likely Brewer’s primary backup this season, but there One of the reasons Brewer stood out to the Texas staff upon their

are still portions of his game that are missing. Despite an impres-

arrival in 2016 was his ability as a receiver. He caught 115 passes

sive frame, a good work ethic, and translatable skills, Leitao has

for 1664 yards and 29 touchdowns over his junior and senior sea-

struggled with certain portions of the college game, specifically the

sons with Lake Travis. With Baylor QB Charlie Brewer leading the

physical aspect of his position.

offense, Cade Brewer was able to become a top receiving threat for the Cavs.

For Leitao to become a multi-year factor at TE, Texas needs his blocking ability to improve.

Cade Brewer saw time during his freshman season because of horrid depth at the position and because he was able to bulk up

2019 Season Preview

39

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 18 | Jared Wiley FR-HS | 6-7 – 255

No. 89 | Brayden Liebrock FR-HS | 6-4 – 230

Texas signed a great two man class in 2019. Both will have some work to do before they see the field.

Wiley smartly enrolled early in order to both acclimate to the college game and to get used to playing tight end once again. Though always recruited for the position, Wiley took a one-season break from it in 2018 when he lined up under center for Temple.

Even before college strength and conditioning, Wiley was an imposing physical presence. Now, he’s closer to being built for tight end in the Texas offense rather than quarterbacking a high school spread.

A larger stature doesn’t necessarily mean position understanding, both physical and mental. Enrolling early and redshirting will allow Wiley to understand how to become into a difficult matchup attached or split wide.

Liebrock comes to Texas with more receiving acumen but also more need to grow physically.

Jared Wiley

40

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Expect both tight ends to redshirt.

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2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

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SPECIALISTS

2018 TEXAS LONGHORNS

Cameron Dicker

85 players are currently on scholarship at Texas. Three of them are

able to do as true freshmen stepping in and executing the way they

specialists.

did. They’ve had great training camps, they’re bigger, faster, stronger, carrying more weight and executing at a high level across the board.

Some programs don’t dedicate a lot of time to special teams, viewing

So we’re pleased with them.”

it as a box to check rather than a winnable third phase of the game.

Warehime also spoke highly of Mader, who will assume deep snapTexas dedicates time and money to special teams. All three of Texas’

ping responsibilities for the punt team in addition to field goals.

starting specialists, sophomores Ryan Bujcevski, Cameron Dicker, and Justin Mader, are on scholarship.

“Justin’s done a really good job, he has,” Warehime said. “He’s busted his butt through the offseason and through the summer. Him

Their coordinator, Derek Warehime, spoke Thursday about the prog-

and Ryan have spent a lot of time together working on their own.

ress Dicker and Bujcevski made during the offseason.

He’s done a really good job all camp. We expect him to go into the stadium in nine days and execute at a high level.”

“They’ve done a really nice job over the summer and they’ve had solid training camps,” Warehime said. “They’ve both developed

Entering their sophomore seasons, all three should be able to im-

physically. Honestly, pretty impressed with what those guys were

prove upon encouraging freshman campaigns.

42

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 8 | Ryan Bujcevski SO-1L | 6-0 – 185

Dicker solidified himself in the memory of Longhorn fans with his game-winning field goal over Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl. A play of that magnitude alone can make a season, but Dicker made the most

Bujcevski’s freshman season didn’t start strong. In a debut game

of his freshman campaign.

against Maryland where he was asked to punt nine times, the Australian averaged 37.7 yards per punt. That included punts of 15 and 35

He led the Big 12 in field goal attempts and field goals made, but was

yards.

seventh in the conference in percentage made with his 18/25 mark.

He likely has the leg to make field goals up to 55 yards as his season

37.7 isn’t spectacular especially considering the work done by his

long in 2018 was 52. However, improving on accuracy might elevate

cousin, Michael Dickson, the season prior.

Dicker to first team all-conference as opposed to second team like he was last season.

However, somewhere between Austin and Dallas on the way to the Red River Shootout, Bujcevski found his groove.

Dicker missed just one PAT all year, a blocked attempt against Oklahoma. He made the other 51. That’s excellent.

During the last eight games of Texas’ season, Bujcevski averaged 43.2 yards per punt over 34 punts. Opponents managed 95 total

Regarding kickoffs, the Texas was one of a number of teams to not

punt return yards for an average of 2.8 yards per return. Four teams,

allow a kickoff return for a touchdown. 52 of Dicker’s 83 kickoffs

Baylor, West Virginia, Oklahoma in the conference championship,

ended in touchbacks, but those that didn’t were returned 22.3 yards

and Georgia, all had zero or negative return yards.

on average, barely inside the top 100.

Bujcevski became a good college punter not only in his first season

If Dicker has the ability, Tom Herman should elect to have him kick it

in Austin, but also his first season playing football and living in the

deep for a touchback rather than try to hang it up and give his cover-

United States.

age team an opportunity to make a play inside the 25. Dicker should have the leg, and touchbacks will likely save some wear and tear on

“I certainly I believe that having experienced it for a year and the

starters or needed contributors playing special teams.

weight that the logo and the colors carry and things like that, and how important his job is every time he takes the field whether it be punting

Kickers can often let their thoughts cloud their play, but Dicker

the football or holding for Cameron on a field goal attempt, he under-

seemed to adjust well to the spotlight of being Texas’ kicker.

stands the gravity of what this place is,” Warehime said.

Improved accuracy and a little more length on kickoffs, nothing an extra year of practice and weight training can’t help, will result in an

Maintaining the status quo won’t put Bujcevski in the Ray Guy conversation, but maintaining numbers close to what he produced over the final half of the season would give Texas a solid punter.

improved Dicker.

No. 54 | Justin Mader SO-1L | 6-2 – 235

If Bujcevski is to become more than a solid punter, there’s one specific area he can improve on: punts inside the 20.

If the first time you heard Justin Mader’s name was when it was recently announced he was put on scholarship, that’s probably a

Dickson, arguably the best punter in Texas history, downed 42 of his

great thing.

84 punts in 2017 inside the 20. Bujcevski downed just 18 inside the 20 last season.

“He’s certainly earned it,” Warehime said. “He’s done it in games for real. He executed at a high level during spring practice when he had

Texas safety Josh Thompson, often the “receiver” for Dickson’s

to do it full-time with no backup. He’s done a good job throughout

coffin-corner kicks, said at a recent availability he hasn’t quite built

training camp executing at a high level. So we have a lot of trust in

the same connection with Bujcevski as he had with Dickson, but

him, but he’s earned it.”

they’re still working on it.

Mader will continue to snap for field goals, but he will join the punt An improvement there and Texas might just have a weapon in the

team this season as its deep snapper.

punting game for the second time in the Tom Herman era.

That’s an adjustment to watch, but his previous work as long snapper

No. 17 | Cameron Dicker

makes it easy to assume he should succeed in his new responsibilities.

SO-1L | 6-1 – 205

2019 Season Preview

43

DEFENSIVE LINE

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 32 | Malcolm Roach

No. 94 | Gerald Wilbon

2018 Stats: 17 solo, 7 assist, 24 total, 1.5 tackles for loss,

2018 Stats: 4 solo, 4 assist, 8 total, 1 fumble recovered

SR- 3L | 6-3 – 290

SR- 3L | 6-3 – 325

1 pass defended Wilbon played in all 14 games last season and the 6-3, 325 prodcut The leader of the defense, Roach brings experience, tenacity, and

from Destrehan, LA begins his final season in Austin as an important

has played seven different positions in his time on the 40 Acres.

part of the defensive line rotation.

At 6-3, 290 pounds, the Baton Rouge, LA native has played in 34 games and was named Pre-Season All-Big XII by Phil Steele and

Wilbon contributed a tackle and fumble recovery in the Sugar Bowl.

Athlon Sports.

In all, he has played in 33 games as a Longhorn and will provide needed depth at defensive tackle in 2019.

Roach will anchor the front with gap stability and QB pressures.

Nicknamed “Swamp Thing”, Roach will be the heart of Todd Orlando’s defense in 2019. Desire is what sets Roach apart - he plays hard every down with a high motor. He’s also the son of a coach with a high football IQ.

No. 49 | Ta’Quon Graham JR- 2L | 6-3 – 300

2018 Stats: 9 solo, 3 assist, 12 total, 2 tackles for loss, .5 sacks, 1 forced fumble

No. 42 | Marqez Bimage JR- 2L | 6-2 – 270

2018 Stats: 3 solo, 1 assist, 4 total, 1 forced fumble The third-year defender out of Brenham, TX, Bimage can play in multiple spots along the front seven -- from linebacker to weakside defensive end.

The 6-2, 270-pound junior is one of the strongest members of the team. He played in the first nine games of 2018 until getting injured

The best lineman in the program. A third-year defensive lineman,

against West Virginia. Bimage is looking to stay healthy in 2019 and

Graham is the up-and-comer of the defensive line group. At 6-3, 300

will provide valuable depth along the defensive line. He is also a

pounds, he will play defensive end (4i) and slide inside to defensive

high-level special teams player.

tackle (3 tech) for the Horns in 2019.

The junior from Temple HS is a quiet leader that brings a big stick.

His hands, coordination and intensity set him apart and make him very difficult to block. His best game of the season was his 2 tackle, 1 forced fumble effort in the Sugar Bowl against Georgia. Expect a breakout year from Graham.

No. 91 | Jamari Chisholm SR- 2L | 6-5 – 300

No. 55 | Deandre Christmas-Giles JR- 2L | 6-3 – 315

No. 36 | Jacobi Jones

No. 99 | Keondre Coburn FR- RS | 6-2 – 340

2018 Stats: 2 solo, 22 assist, 70 total, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2 int, 1 pass defended, 2 fumbles recovered The next potentially great defensive lineman from UT, the sophomore former HS All-American from Spring Westfield has already made his presence felt on the field for Texas.

Known for his nasty disposition, and overall size and strength, the 6-2, 340-pound Coburn played in three games as a freshman, saving his redshirt year. Based on that small sample size, he was named Pre-Season All Big XII by Phil Steele. Coburn’s strong finish to the 2018 season and a good off-season are good signs of a productive year in 2019.

JR- TR | 6-4 – 275

No. 88 | Daniel Carson FR- RS | 6-4 – 295

No. 98 | Moro Ojomo FR- RS | 6-3 – 280

No. 93 | T’Vondre Sweat FR- HS | 6-4 – 320

No. 92 | Myron Warren FR- HS | 6-2 – 270

No. 45 | Peter Mpagi FR- HS | 6-5 – 260

Jacoby Jones and Moro Ojomo should provide depth, and Sweat has the potential to see snaps. Look for Warren to redshirt in 2019.

2019 Season Preview

45

LINEBACKER

Anthony Wheeler

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Jeffrey McCulloch

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 23 | Jeffrey McCulloch SR- 3L | 6-3 – 245

2018 Stats: 16 solo, 17 assist, 33 total, 4.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 int, 3 passes defended, 1 forced fumble The 4th year linebacker with 36 games and six starts under his belt, the “Shark” will be relied on heavily by Tom Herman and Todd Orlando in 2019.

He can play all three linebacker spots -- Mac, B-Back, Rover -- so fans can expect to see McColluch lined up at different spots depending on the situation. At 6-3 and 245 pounds, the highly intelligent ball hawk has already graduated and will be a team leader in his senior campaign.

No. 46 | Joseph Ossai SO- 1L | 6-4 – 245

2018 Stats: 13 solo, 7 assist, 20 total, 1 tackle for loss, 1 forced fumble

Joseph Ossai

One of the best prospects on the team, the 6-4, 245 pound outside

known for his tackling prowess and ability to shoot gaps to make

linebacker from Conroe Oak Ridge will have an immediate impact on

plays. He will serve as a Gary Johnson starter kit and has three

the Texas defense.

years to play two. Johnson should expect starter snaps this season.

He played in 14 games as a freshman and registered a team-high 8

No. 13 | Marcus Tillman, Jr.

tackles in the Sugar Bowl victory over Georgia and will be the starting

FR- HS | 6-1 – 230

B-Backer for coach Orlando.

A true freshman who will play in 2019. The 6-1, 230 pounder from With a wiry frame that allows him to bend the edge, he adds the

Jones HS in Orlando, FL, Tillman was one of the top prep athletes

dimension of pass rush and cover skills to excel at the highest level.

in the state of Florida and was ranked nationally by 247, ESPN, and

Expect a breakout season from the former 4-star from the 2018

USA Today.

class.

Tillman brings the ability to play outside and inside with the athleti-

No. 40 | Ayodele Adeoye

cism and speed to contribute early on both defense and special teams.

FR- RS | 6-1 – 250

Adeoye saw action in four games as a freshman and is an up and

No. 91 | Juwan Micthell

coming defender from the IMG Academy in Florida where he was a

SO- TR | 6-1 – 240

2018 Under Armour All-American.

At 6-1, 255 the Mac linebacker will be counted on to set the defense and be a strong run defender. Known for his strong work ethic, the Saint Louis, MO native has a bright future in burnt orange.

No. 33 | David Gbenda FR- HS | 6-0 – 220

No. 1 | DeGabriel Floyd FR- HS | 6-2 – 240

No. 99 | Caleb Johnson JR- TR | 6-0 – 235

Johnson is a transfer linebacker from Fullerton CC, where he was named All American, and enrolled in January 2019. Johnson is

No. 50 | Byron Vaughns FR- RS | 6-4 – 245 Gbenda and Mitchell will most likely redshirt in 2019 and Vaughns will provide depth.

2019 Season Preview

47

SECONDARY

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Caden Sterns

insidetexas.com

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS This will be the most talented secondary since the glory days of the

alley and use his surprising ball skills.

previous decade but whether or not it’s the best depends on how quickly the young safeties and corners adapt to their roles.

It also suits him because he isn’t asked to be in man too often. If forced into action, Texas can win a bunch of games with him in the

The 2019 Texas defensive backs are an embarrassment of riches

back-end. He really earned the confidence of the coaches over the

for Todd Orlando and Craig Naivar to work with. You have the elder

last half year.

statesman in Brandon Jones, a future All American in Caden Sterns, a future early round draft pick in B.J. Foster, and a human missile that’s as talented as any of them in DeMarvion Overshown. Behind those guys you have a collection of players who would start at schools all over the country.

Now, to make it work.

If you can field four safeties who can play the pass well and defend the run like linebackers you’re going to take every opportunity to play dime. We saw that work quite well for Texas, particularly in 2017.

It didn’t quite come together how Orlando wanted last season, but that should change this year even if linebacker isn’t markedly improved because of the ability to deploy Overshown and Foster at the same time.

It’s a 3-4-4, wait, no it’s a 3-2-6, wait wait, what the hell are they doing? Hopefully that’s what opposing quarterbacks are saying and not your defensive coordinator.

No. 19 | Brandon Jones SR-3L | 6-0 – 205

2018 Stats: 48 solo, 22 assist, 70 total, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2 int, 1 pass defended, 2 fumbles recovered One can almost understand his role simply by looking at the stats.

Chris Brown

No. 39 | Montrell Estell

Jones was fourth on the team in tackles despite missing four games

RS SO-1L | 6-1 – 205

due to injury. His speed and recognition allow him to quickly serve as

2018 Stats: 2 solo, 2 total

a +1 in the box and hold runs to less yardage than they’d gain otherwise. His greatest value to the defense, besides his vocal leadership,

Estell also saw his snaps rise during the spring because of Brandon

are those hidden yards that are hard to quantify. He can sometimes

Jones’ injury. He was always on a longer trajectory than some others

misread an angle or make a poor play on the ball, but he’s very good

after coming from a small high school, being unfamiliar with the nu-

at what he’s tasked to do. Expect a big finale after his coming out

Anthony Cook ances of defensive back, and needing to make strides in strength and

party a year ago.

conditioning. He’s at field safety behind Jones and will still have two seasons after this one. Red-shirts are a game-changer for guys who

No. 15 | Chris Brown JR-2L | 5-11 – 195

2018 Stats: 11 solo, 1 assist, 12 total, 1 tackle for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception

require the development.

No. 7 | Caden Stearns SO-1L | 6-1 – 205

2018 Stats: 46 solo, 16 assist, 62 total, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, Brown took full advantage of Caden Sterns missing time in the

4 interceptions, 4 passes defended

spring. Always known as a ferocious hitter, he took necessary steps towards becoming a more cerebral player. He’s logged some time at

Almost a year ago to the day it was declared in these very pages

nickel, but his best position is boundary safety where he can run the

he’d be a Freshman All American and Sterns came through with the

2019 Season Preview

49

2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

heavy lifting to back that prediction up. You’d be hard-pressed to find

Having played Joker last year, Foster is already versed in much of

a more instinctive safety anywhere in the country. His field vision,

the same duties at nickel, save coverage. If he can be adequate

length, and underrated athleticism turn normally safe throws to ill-

in that regard -- and he should be with safety help -- he’s going to

advised. He has exceptional range which works great at a boundary

routinely fill the stat sheet.

safety often tasked with being a centerfielder. One knock on Sterns’

No. 31 | DeMarvion Overshown SO-1L | 6-4 – 210

2018 Stats: 1 assist, 1 tackle A year ago to the day it was Overshown who was destined to play Joker rather than Foster. Both were turning heads in practice, but it was said you could hear Overshown running to ball carriers with no regard for anyone’s safety. He was mentioned in the same breath as both Foster and Sterns as being special. Because of Foster’s versatility to play nickel they’ll be able to get all the special assets on the field at once. Overshown is a rare blend of size and athleticism and is perfectly designed for the hybrid role of safety/linebacker. He’s going to be tough to take advantage of in space and when coming off the edge he should bring the same level of disruption as Foster, but with similar length to Joseph Ossai. How he handles big offensive linemen trying to block him is the big question.

No. 44 | Tyler Owens FR | 6-2 – 205

“He’s like the guys we got last year,” said a source of Owens. To be compared to the class of 2018 safeties is high praise but with his

B.J. Foster

freakish size and even more freakish speed, Owens belongs in the discussion. A legitimate 10.3 100 meter runner, Owens’ speed pegs

game is he could be more forceful coming downhill which is another

the speedometer. His build, if you’ve seen the pictures, shows him to

big ask of his position. Judging by recent pictures of him looking

be a fast responder to strength and conditioning. That isn’t a surprise,

more densely built he’s ready to show improvement in that regard.

but it is telling of what his future may hold. He’ll be groomed to start off at field safety but he may end up as a Joker too. Expect Owens to

No. 25 | B.J. Foster

see the field this season with an eye towards major playing time after Brandon Jones departs.

SO-1L | 6-2 – 210

2018 Stats: 33 solo, 13 assists, 46 totals, 9 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 1 interception, 5 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles

No. 11 | Chris Adimora FR | 6-1 – 185

Foster is every bit as natural of a player as Sterns but the two couldn’t be more different in play style. Sterns is a chess player

Adimora came in a little bit lighter than expected which likely stems

calculating his moves well in advance. Foster is a pool shark who

from his time spent playing basketball. He’s a clear red-shirt candi-

sees the proper angles in advance to deploy his ‘see ball, hit ball’

date but just as clear is his long-term upside thanks to his versatility.

mentality.

He could be anything from nickel, to free safety, to a ball-hawking boundary safety. Having eyes for the turnover and knowing what to

You don’t want to rein that mentality in too much because that ag-

do with the ball after it may be Adimora’s best attribute which is why I

gression is part of what makes him great. It’s also what will help him

like him in the boundary long-term. He was a two-way player in high

with the duties I suggested Thompson would struggle with at nickel

school, also serving as a big-play wide receiver. A tenth or two on the

-- playing run force. BJ doesn’t quite offer the coverage traits that

stopwatch is the only thing keeping Adimora from being considered

Thompson does but if you want to get as much speed on the field

special but his feel for the game makes up for it.

while sacrificing very little size and physicality, Foster’s your guy.

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2019 TEXAS LONGHORNS

No. 4 | Anthony Cook SO-1L | 6-1 – 190

2018 Stats: 13 solo, 5 assist, 18 total, 1 pass defended, 1 tackle for loss, 1 sack The Second Year defesive back played in all 14 games as a true freshman, including the Sugar Bowl win over Georgia. At 6-1, 190 pounds, Cook is regarded as one of the top up-and-coming DBs in the nation. He brings length, speed, and a high football IQ to the secondary. He’s a budding superstar. He is similar to Aaron Wiliams.

No. 3 | Jalen Green SO-1L | 6-1 – 185

2018 Stats: 1 solo, 1 assist, 2 total The second year corner played in 11 games as a true freshman, mostly on special teams. Texas fans should expect the 6-1, 185 pound man on the island to be one of the best defensive backs in the Big XII. Already known for his ability to track and smack, Green will be one of the bright spots for the Texas defense over the next few years.

No. 29 | Josh Thompson JR-2L | 6-0 – 200

Anthony Cook

No. 5 | D’Shawn Jamison SO-1L | 5-10 – 190

2018 Stats: 17 solo, five assist, 22 total, 1 pass defended A 5-10, 190 pound mighty mite, Jamison showed flashes during Thompson is talented enough to start at Texas and most other

spring and fall camps after moving to defense from receiver. The

schools but finds himself in competition with B.J. Foster, a player who

speedy Arlington Lamar graduate will provide valuable depth in the

is uncommonly gifted even within this select group. Nickel’s a de-

secondary while being relied on for punt and kick return duties.

manding position that asks the player to be part corner, part outside linebacker, and part safety.

Thompson has the traits for coverage and playing the ball out wide,

No. 2 | Kenyatta Watson II FR-HS | 6-1 – 190

but suffers a bit at the point of attack. He’s a year stronger and I’m excited to see what he brings to the table. If he doesn’t start, he’ll be

True freshman from Grayson HS in Loganville, GA, son of former

fantastic depth at nickel or safety and will see the field regardless. As

NFL cornerback Kenyatta Watson, the 4-star DB was one of the most

one of the fastest players on the team he should get some scalps on

sought after athletes in the 2019 class, At 6-1, 192 pounds, Watson

special teams too.

II is expected to make an immediate contribution at both corner and nickel.

No. 38 | Kobe Boyce SO-1L | 6-1 – 180

No. 27 | Donovan Duvernay JR-SQ | 5-9 – 195

2018 Stats: 8 solo, 2 assist, 10 total, 1 pass defended Boyce, a former HS All-American, saw action in six games in 2018 with two starts. The quiet, introverted Boyce doesn’t say much but thanks to Yancy McKnight is filling in a great frame to go with his natural speed and ability. He will be a regular in the secondary rotation in 2019.

No. 24 | Marques Caldwell FR-HS | 6-1 – 195 Caldwell is a true freshman and should redshirt and Duvernay could see limited action.

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2019 SCHEDUL

by Ian

Boyd

The non-conference slate is much easier than previous seasons, at least there isn’t a bizarre game against a unique and talented Maryland squad before injuries sap their roster but instead the LSU home game sandwiched between bouts with Louisiana Tech and “at Rice” in NRG which will likely hold mostly Texas fans.

There’s all the potential in the world here for Texas to win the Big 12 championship and make the playoffs under one of the following three scenarios. photos by Will Gallagher

Scenario 1: Texas is undefeated.

Scenario 2: Texas defeats LSU, drops a single B12 game but wins the title.

Scenario 3: Texas loses to LSU, then goes undefeated in B12 play, including

the title game.

2019 Season Preview

54

LE

Cade Brewer

Brandon Jones 2019 Season Preview

55

2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

L

osing two games generally knocks anyone out of playoff contention but a single loss offset with a Big 12 title

and/or win over LSU offers a really strong resume for a blue blood program like Texas.

Obviously the chief goal against the first three opponents of the 2019 slate is to get through the smaller schools without giving away much or suffering injuries and then to drive out the Cajun invaders.

A win over LSU isn’t essential to the season but it does create playoff hype and additional recruiting momentum as Herman sells “3-0 vs the SEC” against Oklahoma and A&M and “scoreboard” over LSU. It’d also probably make “big game Tom” into established vernacular, which would also boost the program’s profile.

Jalen Green

Much of the rest of the defense is back but

that should bode well for the season. If

now under the leadership of Bob Diaco

Green struggles but Anthony Cook returns

after former DC Blake Baker was reunited

in the second half and puts the Bulldog on

with Manny Diaz at Miami. Diaco runs a

lockdown, that’s not a bad sign either. Texas

different system, preferring the old school,

could probably play dime, keep a safety

two-gapping 3-4 defense that had served

over Hardy, and dare the Bulldogs to try and

The Bulldogs aren’t a total pushover. They

Oklahoma so poorly under Mike Stoops

run the ball on vanilla schemes to win if they

got within a 24-21 margin against LSU last

before Lincoln Riley ended that budding

don’t mind showing that package on film for

year before giving up a touchdown, then

tradition of incompetence and started over

LSU’s consumption.

getting stuffed on a 4th and 1 QB sneak and

with a new defensive staff.

WEEK 1 | Austin, TX

LOUISIANA TECH

Whatever packages Texas plays against

giving up another to put the game out of Most of their returning experience on

La Tech, perhaps the base nickel and 11

defense is found in the secondary, which

personnel O, perhaps newer packages, I

The team was largely powered by RS junior

is probably useful although they’ll likely be

expect them to save the new schemes for

QB J’Mar Smith throwing to RS junior WR

tied down trying to bracket Collin Johnson

week two against the other Louisiana team

Adrian Hardy, a connection that yielded

anyways. This is a game for establishing

on the schedule. It’s possible this will be the

75 catches for 1145 yards and six scores,

the run and giving Cade Brewer a chance

most high profile game on the schedule,

including 10 catches for 181 yards and two

to own the TE position, regardless of

though probably not the most important,

scores against the LSU secondary.

whether that spot will be actually be utilized

and it’s well situated for Texas to bring a lot

extensively during the conference slate.

of new looks into it.

reach at 38-21.

The offensive line will be rebuilt and include new starters at both tackle spots but Smith-

The Bulldogs are rebuilding their DL in

to-Hardy is back and is clearly nothing to

terms of personnel and technique and

sniff at.

should be a tune-up for the Longhorn OL in

WEEK 2 | Austin, TX

LOUISIANA STATE

pushing people around in the run game.

The 2018 La Tech defense had some star power as well in DE Jaylon Ferguson (26

Adrian Hardy should prove a useful test

The 2018 LSU Tigers were pretty similar

TFL, 17.5 sacks) but he left early and was

of Texas’ new cornerbacks, pending what

to the 2018 Texas Longhorns in their style.

drafted in the third round by the Ravens.

kinds of scoring margins we see in this

Dave Aranda and Todd Orlando both come

game. If Jalen Green takes him out early,

from the Utah school of defense and they

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2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE both make extensive use of the tite front.

game where they likely won’t be shy about

because they may not face a tougher front.

The LSU offense brought in Joe Burrow

giving Burrow some work in their option sets.

from Ohio State to run an 11 personnel RPO

The Tigers have the stretch-read play that

The matchup everyone will find more

spread offense. They mixed in the QB run

wrecked Texas against Oklahoma State a

concerning is between comrade Herman

game quite a bit as well, running Texas’ QB

year ago and some RPO versions of the

and his offensive politburo against old friend

stretch play a handful of times and then also

run. Their line is more athletic than most

Dave Aranda and his Louisianan/Houstonian

some standard option schemes.

any in the Big 12 and between that and the

athletes on defense. The likely depth charts

presence of some big, blocking TEs on their

I’ve seen for the Tiger defense include as

Ed Orgeron has mentioned giving him more

roster they could give Texas fits with some

many as five former 5-star recruits, mostly

work in the run game this year. Playing at

pin and pull versions of the scheme.

in the secondary. As it happens, that doesn’t

6-4/216 last year Burrow had 93 carries for 589 yards at 6.3 ypc with seven TDs (after removing sack yardage).

For comparison’s sake, Sam Ehlinger had 138 carries for 667 yards at 4.8 ypc with 16 TDs last year. The LSU QB has been adding some weight in anticipation of taking more hits, and he’s one of the tougher players in the country.

They’re also adding more and more RPOs and spread passing to their offense, which figure to take on greater importance this year with Burrow, most of the WRs, and most of the OL back. Justin Jefferson is the star of the WR corps and he’s pretty tough too, demonstrated by his willingness to lay out for catches over the middle in the SEC. Their run game is similar to Texas’ in terms of being based in 11 personnel with the TE Jeffrey McCulloch

often off the ball as an H-back or flexed out to create matchups, but they put more emphasis on outside zone with inside zone as the changeup.

It’s not an overly complicated run game so

even include their best or at least most

it’s possible that Todd Orlando will have it

proven players DT Rashard Lawrence (4-

Whether they’ll focus their carries on

schemed up with a blitz package, perhaps by

star) or safety Grant Delpit (4-star).

returning RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire or

bringing BJ Foster hard from his nickel spot.

incoming 5-star John Emery remains to be

Certainly Orlando in the last two years has

For all that, the defense may take a step

seen, but the passing game may be more

shown a high aptitude for crushing pro-style

back from last year without star linebacker

of the focus of the offense either way. They

spread systems like what LSU will bring into

Devin White and CB Greedy Williams.

have more healthy TEs now than last year as

the game.

Like Texas, they’re hoping to handle that

well and will probably use them in much the

by bumping a big, smart, and versatile

same fashion that Texas did a year ago with

But this game will also be a test of Texas’

former OLB inside to Mac LB. Their Jeffrey

Andrew Beck.

key players up front. If Malcolm Roach and

McCulloch is named Michael Divinity.

Jeffrey McCulloch have a good feel for the For Texas the main concern is defending the

LSU schemes and are blowing things up

Aranda’s preference at LSU has been to play

run from LSU’s spread sets, particularly in a

that should be a good sign for the season

man-free with SS Delpit hanging near the

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box as an overhang, overlap player, or even

follows the tackle’s lead block.

blitzer (five sacks in 2018) or else pressquarters with bracket coverage on either slot

Beating one of those backs to the perimeter

between the linebacker and the safety.

when there’s a soft edge would likely be tough for Devin White, and it’s out of the

experienced QB.

WEEK 3 | Houston, TX

RICE

Where Delpit ends up is the tell for what

question for his replacements. LSU has

Aranda feels is the most threatening

other fronts and defenses to mix in but if the

dimension of your offense. The prospective

Longhorns can force them into particular

The end of the David Bailiff era at Rice

starting cornerbacks for LSU are junior

looks then things get easier and their QB

combined with the opening of the transfer

Kristian Fulton (6-0, 192, former 5-star) and

run schemes will likely be a problem for

portal has been trouble for new head coach

true freshman Derek Stingley (6-1, 195,

whatever approach the Tigers attempt.

Mike Bloomgren. He lost four players from

former 5-star) who are both big, physical athletes.

his 2019 roster to grad transfer and the With a diverse collection of option plays

previous year obviously had similar problems

utilized from different formations, Texas

in losing Calvin Anderson to Texas.

Immediately out of the gate how they fare

should be able to make some headway

against Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson

against a young LSU front and help create

Bloomgren came from Stanford, where he

will set the tone for the game. If Stingley

play-action opportunities to take some shots

was the OL coach and run game coordinator,

can’t match his hype and hold up against

on their secondary. If the Tiger cornerbacks

and they had a similar academic profile and

back shoulder fade routes thrown to Johnson

can’t hold up then this could be a rout, if

utilized it to expand their recruiting footprint

then the entire structure of the LSU defense

they can then Texas still has other paths to

by making it part of the pitch. The Owls have

unravels. If he and Fulton can hold up

scoring.

taken on a few transfers of their own but the

reasonably well, then things move on to phase two.

problem for the Bloomgren Owls is going to This is one of the tougher matchups of the

be that if he’s successful on picking off good,

season for the Longhorns but they have

smart football players across the country with

Multiple teams, including Herman’s own

a mastery of the sorts of tactics you need

the allure of a Rice education, he runs the

Buckeyes, have given Aranda fits by

to use to get after a team like LSU and

risk of having an exodus of grad transfers

utilizing QB run game and option looks to

they’ll be playing them at home with an

that deplete his team of leadership and

cross up the keys for LSU’s man coverage defenders and create creases for their runners. Much like Orlando’s 2018 defense, they are especially vulnerable against trips formations, mostly because it can leave them a man short on the boundary. Direct snap QB runs are as much trouble for the Tigers as they are for anyone else and option elements from spread sets can cause real problems. In that look the LSU B-backer has to contain the edge above all else because there’s no help outside of him, that makes him a basically stationary target and vulnerable to kick out blocks.

And of course Texas has their FB/QB hybrid behind center who they will probably be willing to give some run in this game, so if the Tigers try to force the ball to the perimeter they can flip the RB and the read to get Keaontay Ingram or Jordan

Kaeontay Ingram

Whittington to the edge while Ehlinger

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perpetuate the cycle of losing those players to winning opportunities elsewhere in the years in which they’re being counted on to lead the team.

Their gameplan against Texas will likely be to get as many competent blockers as they can find on the field to allow them to double the Longhorn DL and try to push ahead for chain-moving chunks on the ground while running clock. RB Juma Otoviano is the one to watch here, a 5-10/189 pound sophomore they’ll need to produce some big runs to have a chance.

They don’t want an up and down game where their lack of depth and athleticism

D’Andre Christmas-Giles

will show up, they want to turn this into a low-scoring grinder a la 2010 when they

Texas could count on beating on the Owls

end the season or kill its potential but a 3-0

hung around until the second quarter when

simply by having too much athleticism and

start would give Texas a lot of momentum

Texas scored on defense and started to pull

speed.

going up against a down Big 12.

away. In all likelihood they won’t have Texas’ full attention with Oklahoma State and the

This non-conference slate will likely serve to

conference slate looming while LSU is in the

set the ceiling for the season based on how

rearview mirror but even in 2010 and 2015

that LSU game goes. Going 2-1 here won’t

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The beginning of Texas’ 2019 Big 12

five touchdowns, Will Grier threw for 346

It’s pretty much the same concept, they’re

schedule would have been absolutely brutal

yards and three touchdowns while running

just doing it from the spread now with more

in 2018. After the Rice game the Longhorns

in that two-point conversion to win the

speed on the field at the other positions.

start their league slate with Mike Gundy’s

game, Kyler Murray threw for 304 and 379

Gundy’s conversion to the Air Raid that

Oklahoma State Cowboys, then get a bye

yards and scored eight total touchdowns. All

occurred when he hired Dana Holgorsen in

week to “prepare for a road trip to West

three schools will look to reload but it’ll nice

2010 was pretty easy and straightforward.

Virginia,” with the Red River Shootout

for Texas that their collective experience in

against the Oklahoma Sooners looming the following weekend. Like any head coach

WEEK 4 | Austin, TX

Beyond getting more skill players on the field, the main adjustment that the Air

with any sense, Tom Herman will pack extra

Raid brought to the OSU offense was in

anti-Sooner prep into that bye week.

developing a simpler system where the QB could have more control at the line to get

The likely collapse of the Mountaineers

attacking Todd Orlando’s defense with their

the Cowboys into the right plays at the right

in year one after Dana Holgorsen will

own respective systems has departed.

times. The Air Raid did that and last year

only increase the amount of extra Sooner

5th year senior and former walk-on Taylor

gameplanning that Texas sneaks into that

It’s easy to forget that Mike Gundy’s start at

Cornelius threw for 3978 yards, ran for 406

bye week. You’ll hear the exact opposite

OSU came working as the OC for Les Miles

more, and scored 35 total touchdowns while

from Herman, the staff, the players, and

before the mad hatter left for LSU. Miles

leading the ‘Pokes to another top offensive

gullible commentators but feel free to ignore

hired Gundy when he arrived for the 2001

finish.

that.

season, so Gundy has been in Stillwater for literally the entire century of OSU football.

There’s an argument to be made that

It’ll be the same formula again in 2019 and they have all the usual suspects lined

the Red River Shootout is considerably

The offense has used big-play receivers

up to make it work. Tylan Wallace is back

less important now that the Big 12 has a

to put up big numbers. In 2002 they beat

at outside receiver, they have a pair of

conference championship game and either

Oklahoma 38-28 and WR Rashaun Woods

capable slots to hold safety attention in

team can sneak into it as the No. 2 team

caught 107 balls for 1695 yards and 17

the middle of the field with Dillon Stoner

even if they drop the rivalry game or some

TDs. In 2018, they lost to OU 48-47 but

and Landon Wolf, Chuba Hubbard is as

other Big 12 contests.

WR Tylan Wallace caught 86 balls for 1491

talented an RB as they’ve had, and the

yards and 13 TDs.

QB job will either go to Hawaii transfer

The 2018 season is a nice counterargument to that since the Longhorns won the RRS and then relied on that win as a tie-breaker to elevate them into the conference title game. Additionally, the emphasis that both teams necessarily put into this game will always make it a seasondefining contest. Refusing to take this game seriously sets either team up for a beating against a more intense opponent that could rock their confidence or stain the season.

Some of Mack Brown’s teams know what I’m talking about.

The good news for this stretch of games is that it won’t include Taylor Cornelius, Will Grier, or Kyler Murray. All three of those QBs brought a lot of knowhow into their battles with the Texas defense in 2018.

Cornelius threw for 321 yards and scored

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and 2018 redshirt Dru Brown or Texas HS phenom Spencer Sanders. The winner of that be whichever QB proves most capable of reliably checking into the right play and distributing the ball to their abundant skill talent. The ‘Pokes also have a TE now, 6-7, 265 pound QB convert Jelani Woods, which could make things even spicier.

Stopping up the gears of the Mike Gundy offensive machine requires a defense that can accomplish one of a few strategies.

Stopping the run without committing defenders aggressively, holding up outside against their top WR on posts and go routes without safety help, or finding a way to get help to take away the deep crosses by the slot without committing help from the deep safety who’s needed to stop the outside WR. Texas accomplished this in 2017 with the inverted Tampa-2 defense, playing the dime safety in the middle of the field to take away the slot while the safeties still sat on the post routes. They brought that approach back in 2018 but the young secondary struggled to execute it.

At any rate, the formula is known. The best bet against the ‘Pokes is normally to play the pass first and rally to the run while relying on stout play from the DL and ILBs to prevent OSU from hitting creases for big gains on the ground. The quality of their QB play may

secondaries in the entire league for 2019 get after teams. JUCO Mike Scott will be one

The defense is a good place to start because

to watch this year, he’s a DE but they may

this team is going to be transitioning to a

move him all over the place to set him up in

versatile, quarters-based scheme that is both

the pass-rush with some extra surprise and

a departure from previous DC Tony Gibson’s

momentum as they did last year with Jordan

cover 3 schemes and a teaching-intensive

Brailford.

system to learn and master. Doing so with a totally rebuilt secondary that will now lean

This team wasn’t terribly sound against the

on walk-ons or freshmen is a nice recipe for

run last year and looks iffy in that regard

getting whooped in the Big 12. This unit just

once more so if Texas can avoid spotting

isn’t equipped to match up with an offense of

a 24-7 lead early on they should be able

Texas’ caliber.

to make hay against a rebuilt DL and inexperienced/over-aggressive ILB tandem.

WEEK 5 | Morgantown, WV

the years and currently presenting as an aggressive, pressure-based unit. That led to a major boom/bust pattern in 2018 with the busts impacting games a lot more than the booms once conference play began.

OSU has one of the most experienced

still pretty iffy. Will Grier was a really good player in the Dana Holgorsen version of the wideouts for him to throw to that are all gone,

this program an annual threat to win 10

entirely, repeatedly changing in style over

On offense, things are more promising but

Air Raid and they had a trio of dangerous

top to their outside receivers are what make

The Oklahoma State D is a different animal

other safeties.

though and still enough pieces up front to

impact that strategy but the throws over the

games.

Caden Sterns

B.J. Foster

as well as the league’s best ancillary Trevon Ironically one of Texas’ only trips across the

Wesco.

Red River in 2019 will take place in between their two games against Oklahoma schools,

Neal Brown has had to make do with much

neither of which will require that Texas cross

less talented passing game personnel than

that border.

what he may still have found leftover at West Virginia, but he’s also tended to emphasize

Neal Brown’s Mountaineers lost a bunch of

the run more and loves having a fullback-

NFL players on offense as well as the best

type like the departing Wesco.

players on a bad defense, including young safety Kenny Robinson who entered the

The picture that’s coming into focus for the

transfer portal this summer along with two

2019 Mountaineers is one of a team that can

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score and be dangerous on offense at times

late Kyler Murray heroics made the game

The new style will require that the Sooner

but not with the necessary consistency to

close at the end.

defenders play on a string, which they

make up for a woeful defense. Let’s move

haven’t been doing with any level of success

on so we can talk about the other Oklahoma

The 2019 Sooners figure to be a lot different

to this point and which will likely prove

school.

now that Mike Stoops is gone and replaced

difficult given their lack of proven options at

by young up and comer Alex Grinch at DC.

safety. Their safeties were so shaky in 2018

For years the Sooners were largely defined

that the Sooners ended the year playing with

by Stoops’ devotion to man coverage and

three LBs, three CBs, and just one safety

two-gapping defensive fronts schematically

(whom Alabama knocked unconscious). They

and their inability to find or develop the kinds

caught Texas with that look but Alabama’s

Tom Herman has gone up against Lincoln

of players that could match up and execute

RPOs took them apart.

Riley on four occasions now and gotten the

those techniques against strong opponents.

WEEK 6 | Dallas, TX

OKLAHOMA

better of three of them, the 2018 Big 12 title

So this one does indeed figure to be another

game was the first time that Oklahoma really

They’ll be better off in the long run for moving

shootout pending how well Texas handles

got the better of a Herman team.

away from that approach and that DC, but

Jalen Hurts in the Lincoln Riley offense. The

Grinch now has to try and teach the Sooners

Sooner QB is a pretty interesting player,

Mensa Tom’s Cougars mauled Oklahoma

how to play smart, pattern-matching defense

his team was unable to win a national

in 2016, Texas overcame a 20-3 deficit in

and find some players up front that can

championship while he was at the helm due

the 2017 RRS to nearly pull a win out late

cause problems without yielding creases in

to his 43% completion percentage in playoff

against a playoff Sooner team, and in the

his movement-heavy schemes.

games and 3.7 ypa yield in the passing

2018 RRS Texas nearly blew OU out before

game.

Collin Johnson

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The big change that Tua Tagovailoa brought

him left as he’s dangerous rolling right and

to generate consistent gains that keep the

to their offense was an ability to hit RPOs

threatening with the throw or scramble. If you

offense ahead of schedule going up against

that Hurts wasn’t trusted to connect on.

get him rolling left against a hard-charging

a front of Texas’ caliber is certainly in doubt.

secondary you get playoff pumpkin Hurts.

When Hurts can perform as a one-read

It’ll also be very possible for Orlando to

passer or get loose in the run game or on the

Forcing the Sooners to try and work their

find some weak spots in the young Sooner

scramble he’s an overpowering athlete with

way down the field against two (or 2.5) deep

OL and target them with confusing and

the ability to hit some throws down the field.

When he has to get through progressions after the snap and work from the pocket he can become decidedly below average, think 2018 Shawn Robinson with less velocity, better ball security, and fewer “who was that even to???” throws.

The challenge for Texas is in figuring out how to bring out playoff pumpkin Hurts, which isn’t necessarily as easy as it sounds as many of his opponents at Alabama would be eager to explain.

Riley excels at creating quick and easy reads for his QB and the Oklahoma power run game tends to make that easier still. The two big picture strategies Texas will likely carry into this game are to take away easy reads and play some bend don’t break from the dime package, yet also to mix in some pressures to attack an OL replacing four

Brandon Jones (19) and B.J. Foster (25)

starters that are headed off to the NFL. From the dime package they can use

safeties was a solid bet in 2018 against Kyler

overwhelming pressure packages while also

the joker safety (presumably DeMarvion

Murray because of his inexperience but a

using his deep collection of safeties to keep

Overshown) to be a clean-up hitter that

great bet against this revamped Sooner

Jalen Hurts from getting a clear sense of

accounts for the QB and allows Texas to

front.

where to find a receiver.

Oklahoma’s most experienced offensive

There’s no Mike Stoops in Norman to help

lineman for 2019 will either be Virginia

guarantee a positive outcome in the RRS

Normally it’s too expensive for teams to force

transfer R.J. Proctor or RS sophomore

for Texas with a miscalculated defensive

the QB to keep the ball around on the edge

Creed Humphrey, each of whom have the

gameplan, but Texas may have finally

but Texas will have multiple, angry and fast

equivalent of a year’s worth of starts and

graduated to the level where they don’t need

safeties off the ball that can adjust and chase

only one of them getting that experience in

it to take down their Red River rivals.

Hurts down.

the OU system.

cheat the run game by having unblocked DL chase the RB.

This three game stretch is important and They can also use either LB as a spy on third

The edges are uncertain, they haven’t sorted

Texas is going to want to go 3-0 here even

down if they think they’re up for containing

out who will even start and the presumptive

if they drop a game or even two later in the

Hurts, which is probably a reasonable bet

starter at LT by much of the media, former

season. Expect a dynamic gameplan against

even if McCulloch and co. aren’t as quick

5-star Brey Walker, finished the spring at

the Sooners.

as Gary Johnson. The key will be to force

guard as he sought his bearings. Their ability

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After Texas plays LSU, Oklahoma State,

on their terrible teams. There are teams that

their backs to the ball. Bryce Torneden was

and Oklahoma over the course of six weeks,

would have loved to trade for some of their

often positionally sound per his assignment,

which could be the three toughest games

defenders over the years, particularly LB

but his assignment tended to be overly

they play all year, things really slow down for

Joe Dineen (gone), DL Daniel Wise (gone),

simple as he’d execute a fragmented part

the Longhorns.

and CB Hasan Defense (still around). Their

of the plan and then turnaround to see his

LT Hakeem Adeniji is good, last year’s star

teammates tackling the ballcarrier past the

The next three games include a home date

WR Steven Smith was good, and RB Pooka

marker.

with Kansas the week after the Red River

Williams is one of the most dangerous

Shootout, a road trip to the Fort to play TCU,

players in the entire league.

Les Miles is in charge now so he might

and then back to Austin to host Kansas State.

change that, or he may not because he They’ve been totally incapable of

retained longtime DB coach and 2018 DC

surrounding the good talents that have

Clint Bowen to coach up the safeties for this

For the Texas offense this stretch won’t

cropped up on their rosters with role players

team. New DC D.J. Eliot figures to be more

necessarily be a cake walk. Attacking the

that can play team ball. I recently wandered

of a run-stopping coach but back at Colorado

Jayhawk defense in Austin isn’t one of the challenges of Big 12 round robin life but the TCU and K-State defenses will bring a lot more grit, discipline, and overall talent than most of the rest of the league.

They’ll also be different. LSU and Oklahoma figure to be more fluid up front and mix in some three-down looks while Oklahoma State has a lot of varying pressure packages designed to help their DL find leverage. TCU and Kansas State play classic, four-down defense that aims to control the game up front and set up a versatile, base nickel defense to move around and squeeze your favorite schemes and players.

Whatever Texas finds on offense in the first

Ta’Quon Graham

half of the season they’ll need to carry into this stretch in order to effectively attack these teams and establish themselves as a true

down a game film rabbit hole trying to

he had Jim Leavitt and Mike MacIntyre

Big 12 champion with the ability to light up

understand why PFF has their safety Bryce

running things on the back end behind his

good defenses and avoid off weeks. We’ve

Torneden ranked as the highest graded

big DL so he may defer to what Bowen and

yet to see a team win the Big 12 this decade

safety in the entire Big 12. The answer is

the Jayhawks have done in the past.

with defense, it’s always been via an offense

that they often split up their defense, giving

that can go win shootouts as needed.

dangerously large numbers of DBs pass

Last year’s Kansas defense was largely built

game responsibilities that took their eyes

around bringing a wide array of disguised

completely off the backfield.

coverages and orienting their secondary

WEEK 7 | Austin, TX

KANSAS

heavily towards the pass game, which There’s playing “pass first” which is what

helped them pick off 14 passes as a defense,

the good defenses know you need to do

but couldn’t stop the run unless Joe Dineen

these days and then there’s playing “pass

did something impressive. The rebuild up

One of the strangest things about the

only” and hoping that Joe Dineen and his

front for Kansas will be extensive after losing

Jayhawks over the last few years is that

overmatched comrades up front will make

Dineen and Wise and it’s doubtful that they’ll

they’ve had some legitimately great talents

the tackle while most of the secondary turns

be able to stop anyone without putting a lot

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more run D responsibilities on the grocery list

comment back in his face. Gary, if Ehlinger

Corey Bethley is back as a third-year starter

for guys like Torneden.

is basically a RB why wasn’t your team

next to him at DT. They’ll fill out DE from

prepared to stop the dread-wing package

amongst options ranging from potential star

Kansas’ offense in 2019 will entirely hinge on how effectively they execute RPOs in order to free up space for Pooka Williams. They don’t have the ancillaries and blocking to go out and create paths for him and Les Miles focused on hiring spread minds and an FCS RPO guru to go in that direction anyways.

It’s a good guess that they’ll mix in some Baylor-style receiver splits if they can get away with it and dare teams to still load the box when the O has four receivers spread far from the box to create wide alleys for Williams. Everyone should accept that dare and up the ante by bringing pressures and making QB Thomas MacVittie and the Jayhawk OL prove they aren’t bluffing and can actually beat teams throwing the ball around outside the hash marks. Alright, now that’s enough about Kansas…

Sam Ehlinger

WEEK 8 | Fort Worth, TX that treated him like one?

RS freshman Ochaun Mathis, or else one

For 2019 the priority for Texas will be more

of the JUCO/portal transfers they brought in

to demonstrate the sort of weekly offensive

to replenish the roster. You can bet against

This game was a major priority for Texas

firepower that can allow them to potentially

them finding stud talents to replace Collier

last year. In 2017 they really wanted to show

blow away any given opponent in the

and Banogu if you like, I’m going to assume

up big and physical against K-State and

conference. TCU will be one of the tougher

that they’ll be pretty good again.

not allow the pre-existing team that relied

obstacles to realizing that goal.

on discipline, physicality, and toughness

I voted for LB Garrett Wallow for Big 12

at every position (especially QB) to edge

In the last two years Patterson was able to

DPOY, figuring that he’ll be able to stick at

the Longhorns out in that domain. Mission

mend his ailing defenses by finally replacing

LB this year (he had to mix in some time

accomplished.

longtime defensive assistant Dick Bumpas,

at strong safety), and that with another

upgrading his DL talent with an amazing

year of Patterson’s teachings in his ear his

In 2018 Texas really needed to finally beat

find in Sun Belt transfer Ben Banogu, and

outrageous speed playing behind Bethlely

TCU, who’d dominated the Longhorns over

maintaining a steady wave of converted

and Blacklock will result in a big year. They

the better part of the decade since the Frogs

athletes at LB that have allowed him to field

recruited well at safety in previous years and

joined the Big 12. Mission accomplished

defenses with the quickness and versatility to

will have some promising athletes emerge

again as Texas leaned heavily on Ehlinger

hold up against spread attacks.

there while both corners are multi-year

both in the run game with the dread-wing

starters.

package (flexed out RB to combine QB

Banogu is gone, as is L.J. Collier whom

power with perimeter screens) as well as

the NFL thought rather highly of, but 2017

For my money the best way to attack TCU is

in the passing game, and consequently

sensation Ross Blacklock (a 6-4/320 pound

down the field, where they (like anyone else)

overpowered Gary Patterson’s vaunted

athletically gifted nose tackle) returns from

will concede some matchups and angles if

defense and threw his “Ehlinger is a RB”

an Achilles injury and former Katy Tiger

you can push the ball down the field. Collin

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can reliably get the ball to their playmakers out wide when they are at advantage. The problem is that the players with the most promise in that regard, Michael Collins and Matthew Baldwin, both missed the spring and the latter may not be eligible for 2019.

RS freshman Justin Rogers hasn’t been healthy enough to play for the last two years so his current fitness level for carefully managing the efforts of a B12 title contender are certainly in doubt. True freshman Max Duggan is probably the most physically Collin Johnson

gifted player in the QB room in light of Rogers’ traumatic HS injury, but he’s a true freshman. Then they have K-State transfer

Johnson is a really useful weapon against

could be true for Ehlinger and Johnson in

Alex Delton, who’s a liability as a passer in

them because they love to pull away their

2019 though and they already have that

anything more than a wildcat trigger-man

“weak safety,” who aligns to the boundary

read and throw as an option in a lot of their

role. Unless all of this breaks very positively

where CJ resides, to help to the middle of

passing game schemes, it might as well

for the Frogs then Texas should be able to

the field while the strong safety attacks the

have a place in the run game against teams

handle them by a solid margin if they can put

box. They also often use the weak safety as

that try to get cute with their weak safety

up 30+ on their defense again.

a run support player. Gary Patterson is not at

after the snap and sneak him into the box

all a fan of dropping him into cover 2 over the

or the middle of the field. It’d be shocking if

top of an X receiver unless it’s third down,

they haven’t at least given it a go in practice

in which case that is his preference and his

and it could be a lethal weapon that creates

charges will lock down your favorite route

needed space for their run game, especially

combinations with lethal precision.

if they want to play without a TE in the box.

Last year Johnson had seven catches for

The Frog offense is normally less

branding, program strategy and identity, 40%

124 yards and a score on the Frogs and

challenging but they may have some poison

of their all-time wins, and all of their bowl

working out how to avoid a repeat without

darts to throw by the time Texas takes them

game victories. Without Snyder, they’ve been

giving up the ghost against Texas’ run game

on, pending how their QB situation resolves

hopeless, so now that he’s gone things are

will be Patterson’s main concern in this

itself over the next several months. The

hopeless again right?

contest.

prospective TCU OL will be pretty big outside

WEEK 9 | Austin, TX

Bill Snyder had an unprecedented run at Kansas State, producing their logo, uniform/

and then quick and experienced inside, they

Well, except they overlooked the shrieking

If TCU devotes too much attention to the

could very well be one of the better units in

protests of their fans who are terrified of

Texas run game, Ehlinger could pull the ball

the Big 12 which is helpful to their efforts to

being relegated back to obscurity and hired

from the RB and fire a go or back shoulder

get competent QB play.

Chris Klieman from North Dakota State. The Bison have a historically strong program as

fade to Collin Johnson matched up 1-on-1 vs that CB. Clemson runs this scheme for

At their best, the 2019 Frogs will be a unit

a result of serving as the main mascot and

Trevor Lawrence and USC mixed it in some

that is fully incorporating RPO spread

outlet for the state/region in a fashion similar

last year with JT Daniels.

principles with the Art Briles’ vertical isolation

to small town West Texas football in the 80s,

passing game, offering speedsters like Taye

but they’ve been a lot stronger when Klieman

It requires lightning footwork and release

Barber and Jalen Reagor to find open grass

is around. Craig Bohl was a former DC for

from the QB, to say nothing of the accuracy,

down the field.

Nebraska under Frank Solich in the past who found himself in Fargo after the Cornhuskers

and good chemistry with that receiver. It should also go without saying that WR needs

The best QB for them in 2019 would be

to be a reliable jump ball target. All of that

one that understands their offense and

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tried to move on to Bill Callahan.

2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

From 2003-2010 under Bohl the Bison

that walk-on WR that always toasts Texas,

championship round.The final quadrant of

were 61-30 with a single conference title

and an underrated defense that includes

the 2019 schedule is essentially all the new

and were ineligible for the playoffs four out

some actual talent along the DL that could

money teams in the conference.

of eight seasons due to NCAA sanctions.

allow their schemes to find purchase sooner

From 2008-2010 they were 18-18 after

than expected.

becoming eligible once more. In 2011 they

Texas travels outside the state for the second time all year to play at Matt

added Chris Klieman as a defensive coach,

Klieman also inherited a roster that lacked

Campbell’s surging Iowa State, then takes

then he was DC, then in 2014 he was made

the normal punching power and quality

on Matt Rhule’s fixer upper Baylor in Waco,

HC after Bohl departed for Wyoming. Since

at TE/FB that Snyder’s K-State is known

then ends the season with a re-emergent

Klieman has been involved the Bison have

for to say nothing of also lacking a single

Texas Tech program under new HC Matt

gone 112-8 over eight seasons with eight

scholarship RB. They’ve brought in transfers

Wells and infused with shale cash.

conference championships and seven national championships. Alawho? That’s quite the dynasty.

Klieman’s strategy at North Dakota State has been to play bend don’t break, quarters defense that aims to deny easy reads and passing lanes and force opponents to work their way down the field running on his welldrilled DL and LBs. That’s been similar to K-State’s strategy as well but the Bison were more aggressive in their coverage at CB and much more consistently excellent at DL and LB than Snyder’s recruiting allowed K-State to achieve.

On offense they had a “one million ways to run power” scheme that at times had the QB under center handing off to a RB running

Devin Duvernay

behind a wall of massive midwesterners and mobile TE/FBs and at other times had opponents spread out while the QB ran

and converted one of Snyder’s Collin Klein-

By this point in the year things are often

single-wing power schemes from shotgun.

esque QB projects to TE (Sammy Wheeler)

settled by who still has their legs in the

but while some of the pieces are around the

form of a healthy roster and healthy QB in

In the long-term, Klieman’s undertaking at

overall roster depth and fit is probably not

particular. Looking back at 2018, Texas Tech

K-State will hinge on whether he’s able to

there for K-State to put it together in 2019.

was a much stronger and more dangerous

find the sorts of lanky, under recruited gems

team than Baylor when they were in good

that can be transformed into monsters with

Texas could be hosting a team that’s beat

shape but they lost the last five games of the

time and S&C that he was able to find up in

up and questioning their new approach or

year while starting three different QBs over

North Dakota and Minnesota and then also

a team that’s starting to find itself and could

that stretch and leaning on McLane Carter to

how well their offense adapts to the reality

present a challenge due to having a unique

try and take down Baylor in the season finale

that you need to score efficiently to win in the

offensive style and a hard-nosed squad.

with bowl eligibility on the line for both teams.

Big 12.

At any rate, the Longhorns can’t really afford

Conversely, Iowa State got a huge boost

For 2019 the Wildcats have four senior OL,

to mess around in this stretch because

after a 1-3 start by inserting Brock “pump

fairly mobile and solid QB Skylar Thompson,

the final quarter of the season will be a

fake” Purdy in at QB against Oklahoma State

2019 Season Preview

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2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

and going 7-2 over the rest of the year.

Glancing back at those results in 2018 and

have a playmaking QB coming back to pair

smaller defenses in only to create a 1-on-1 to

with the league’s most popular defense

throw it on the perimeter.

things look really interesting.

what each team brings and projects forward

Their defense has also been cutting edge

to 2019, I think these final three opponents

PFPurdy has the ideal sort of skill set

as they came up with the way to turn a

for Texas could make for a tough conclusion

to execute an RPO spread offense, he

2-robber coverage that most teams had in

to the year. The game with Iowa State will

leads receivers down the field well, adds

the playbook as a third down option into

likely once again have title game implications

a playmaking dimension as a runner or

the Inverted Tampa-2 base defense that is

while Baylor will be dangerous at home if

scrambler, and then has a Baker Mayfield-

now the most popular anti-spread scheme

Charlie Brewer is healthy and Tech may

esque knack for play fakes and finding

around.

sneak into the top of the mid-tier pending

windows to fit the ball through amidst chaos.

how well they fill out some key positions.

W E E K 1 0 | Ames, IA

On one hand, this could be the toughest game of the season. Ames, Iowa has become a hostile environment on Saturdays with much weaker teams on the field than this Matt Campbell squad. On the other hand, Campbell’s offense hasn’t at all translated against Todd Orlando’s stylings on defense. The auto-blitzes and ability to create TFLs against the run game have thwarted the run-centric nature of the Cyclone system in previous years.

Orlando’s preference to outnumber the box from nickel sets and use blitzes to attack tendencies translated more cleanly against a team with a freshman QB that preferred to create leverage for the run game and work

This is the second best QB in the league

Texas attacked that defense pretty effectively

from that starting point then against squads

and his diverse array of skills will become

last year, mostly just because they were able

like West Virginia that had a veteran QB or

the feature of the 2019 Iowa State offense

to run the ball between the 20s with an OL

Texas Tech who was constantly attacking

whereas they were a last minute infusion

that was really starting to feel its oats at that

through the air.

back in 2018.

point in the season as the weather cooled down and opposing defensive fronts were

The Cyclones were voted third in the media

The Cyclones also now have three solid TEs

preseason poll, which is where I had them,

on the roster that they’ve been developing

marking this as one of the few times that

over the last few years and were the early

The Cyclones give up some yardage

the rest of the Big 12 media and yours truly

priority for Campbell when he began

between the 20s against most everyone

have been on the same page about the

recruiting a new look team over the last few

though, but they’ve excelled on third downs

strongest dark horse team. PFPurdy is one

years after taking over. This team will be an

and in the red zone and Texas overcame that

of the biggest reasons, Campbell’s teams

RPO spread team that spends a lot of time in

via the Sam Ehlinger QB run game and a

have been some of the most sound and

12 personnel, spreading out bigger defenses

few good throws by both Ehlinger and Shane

disciplined since year one but now that they

before running it with the QB or packing

Buechele from just outside the red zone (to

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wearing out.

2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

Keaontay Ingram and Lil’Jordan Humphrey).

were: Abilene Christian in Waco, UTSA

group that Baylor has put on the field in the

in San Antonio, Kansas in Waco, Kansas

Matt Rhule era, thus allowing the offense to

The Cyclones return eight starters from

State in Waco (by three), Oklahoma State in

reach new heights.

last year’s D, including some of their

Waco (by three the week after OSU’s big win

best players save for their very solid CB

over Texas), and Texas Tech in Dallas (with

I think that’s also a reasonable assumption,

tandem, and are also introducing a new sam

McLane Carter in for injured Alan Bowman

although I don’t know if I see an overall

linebacker named Will McDonald. I asked

and Jett Duffey).

offensive unit that is as good as say 2018

Matt Campbell about the Wisconsin native at

West Virginia or prospective 2019 Texas. But

media days and he suggested to me that the

The case for Baylor essentially hinges on

certainly Baylor’s O could be very dangerous

6-4/220 pounder can be the edge rushing/

the following assumptions. First, that Charlie

in a shootout, especially at home.

space-backer hybrid that five-stars like Malik

Brewer and the offensive skill talent led

Jefferson and Caleb Kelly were not...so

by Denzel Mims and company will be truly

On that, the Baylor 2019 schedule brings

heads up for that.

deadly next season as upperclassmen if they

Iowa State, Texas, and Oklahoma to Waco

get the kind of blocking that they need.

and features seven homes games. The final

Assuming both teams are healthy at QB

assumption is that Matt Rhule’s defense is

heading into this contest, this might be the

I think this is pretty reasonable and learned

going to finally come through in year three

toughest and best game of the season,

at Media Days that Mims had a thumb injury

after two abysmal seasons. This is the one

whether it’s a defensive struggle or both

in 2018 that might explain his alligator arms

that I cannot buy and discussions with Rhule

teams work out how to move the ball on

and inconsistency catching the ball last

and star linebacker Clay Johnston at Big

each other.

year. The next assumption is that an OL

12 media days haven’t really convinced me

W E E K 1 1 | Wa c o , T X

BAYLOR A lot of people have this game circled as a trap for Texas, coming the week after the Iowa State game and also coming on the road against a Baylor team that many think might be the mid-tier Big 12 squad that makes a leap and hangs around as a title game contender come November.

As 2018 demonstrated, the introduction of a title game to the Big 12 has made some of the November and December matchups truly compelling because so many teams will have something to play for in the form of the second slot even if there’s a runaway No. 1.

That dynamic is a factor in why Texas’ final three games profiled here could be tough

Keaontay Ingram

as some or all of these squads may have something important to play for.

I don’t really like Baylor’s chances to be that

that returns sophomore LT Connor Galvin,

either.

team though. Their success in 2018 might

senior G Sam Tecklenburg, and RS senior C/

have been a little bit of a mirage as their

Clemson transfer Jake Fruhmorgen will be

The plan, per Rhule himself, is to expand

six wins that brought them to bowl eligibility

far and away the most sturdy and talented

their three-down dime package into the

2019 Season Preview

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2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

base defense this season. Herman faced that defense back in 2015 in the AAC

W E E K 1 2 | Au s t i n , T X

against defenses that can’t substitute against their tempo.

championship game and took it apart by featuring Greg Ward in the QB run-based

It’s worth noting that this style of offense

RPO spread.

allows a team to be simpler conceptually New Red Raider head coach Matt Wells is

because rather than needing dozens of plays

The trick of their brand of three-down sub-

perhaps best defined as Tom Herman with

to attack defenses they can use the hybrid

package defense is that they yield an awful

more of a delegated offensive system and

TE to give them more balance and more

lot of leverage up front in order to pack the

a gentler and more humble persona. The

means by which to attack defenses with

field with speed and then they try to keep

new Texas Tech offensive philosophy is one

a smaller number of concepts. By moving

everything in front of them and close on the

fashioned by David Yost (Lloyd Christmas)

with ultra-fast tempo and setting matchups

ball well enough to limit yardage and force

who made his bones with Dave Christensen

they can cycle through a limited number

you to convert in the red zone. It hinges on

at Missouri back in the Chase Daniel days

of concepts and expect to out-execute

the abilities of the LBs, Tyler Matakevich

and has since evolved to appreciate the

opponents rather than needing extra plays to

back in 2015 and Clay Johnston in 2019.

benefits of playing in 11 personnel a la Tom

help generate leverage against units.

Herman. The emphasis on culture, defensive This package sounds pretty far down the

toughness, and the strategy and scheme on

Alan Bowman is a fine fit for this system and

“bend don’t break” paradigm, even further

both sides of the ball is very similar.

will likely benefit from the cleaner picture

than Iowa State’s structure and less sturdy

that a strong running game can give him

because the Bears have but one truly good

The Red Raiders will continue to have an Air

from the pocket (if they can build that run

DL in James Lynch whereas Iowa State has

Raid-style passing attack but will finally make

game) and the Red Raiders also return all

been remarkably strong and technical up

physicality and a spread run game a bigger

five starting OL and a number of receivers

front.

part of the formula on standard downs while

that Kliff Kingsbury had spotted and started

also utilizing the popular trick of taking their

developing from the Texas HS ranks. They

The Bears are also counting on a cast of

“extra blocking surface” tight end and flexing

even added a speedy West Texan named

safeties that simply haven’t been good and

him out on passing downs to hunt matchups

McLane Mannix who’d put up some solid

their dime structure is going to put quite a few of them on the field, at least three and possibly four or five depending on how you count 6-3/220 pound East Texan Blake Lynch, who will play near the box.

Expect the 2019 Bears to be pretty vulnerable to teams that can push people around up front, which projects to be a strength of the 2019 Longhorns, and it’s possible that they’ll come up empty against the trio of big, physical offenses coming to Waco and then continue to be a no-show team on the road.

In that event, drawing the toughest competition in the league at home and then having to travel to Stillwater and Ft. Worth could prove to be a curse that prevents the Bears from improving on their 7-6 finish in 2018. If they go 1-4 or 0-5 in that stretch then you’re looking at another six to seven win season and a delayed breakthrough.

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Malcolm Roach

insidetexas.com

2019 LONGHORN SCHEDULE

numbers at Nevada before transferring back

a big impact on the season. As many of you

home to attend white slot receiver university.

know, Todd Orlando fully embraced the world

Overall the Red Raiders have what they

of three-down/tite front defense, quarters

The kid was pretty forthcoming on Twitter

need to be pretty darn good in year one on

coverage, and simulated pressures while

and either he was trying to grow into a sort

offense, except perhaps that hybrid TE that

he was at Utah State under Matt Wells, and

of “money-backer” to play some dime or else

serves as the fulcrum of the strategy.

they continued in that vein after he left.

was trying to balance the requirements of

Plan A seems to be Donta Thompson, a

It’s a simpler and more college-friendly

not clear who will play that hybrid S/LB role

6-5/230 pound senior from Ennis who beat

system than the pro-style system that former

for the Red Raiders that can tie the defense

my alma mater (Cedar Park) in the state title

DC David Gibbs employed over the last few

together and whether or not they can find

game a few years back. They also have a

years while desperately trying to accumulate

that player is likely the biggest question for

fullback from the 2018 team that has played

turnovers to get the ball back to Kingsbury’s

their defense as Gibbs left behind some

some and they added a JUCO transfer. If

offense.

other players that are a solid fit for the new

longer with the team.

playing the super-nickel. Without Parker it’s

Thompson has embraced a role as a blocker

scheme.

then he should be plenty serviceable as a

The key pieces are pretty similar to what

flexed out matchup hunter (perhaps mostly

Texas needs under Orlando, 4i-technique

The Longhorns’ hope is that by the time the

hunting matchups for Mannix or Kasean

DEs that can hold the B-gaps and get off

Tech comes to town they’re coming with a

Carter), if they don’t have that blocking and

blocks against the pass, ILBs that can rush

limp after having fought through the rest of

can’t run against the better nickel fronts

the passer and run, CBs that can hold up

their schedule and that familiarity with Wells’

in this league then they’ll have a ceiling

outside, and then a nickel that can balance

strategies on both offense and defense will

as an offense that could keep them out of

playing tough coverage assignments with

give the Longhorns a leg up in attacking the

contention.

filling on the edge against the run. At media

Raiders. The matchup here may or may not

days Wells regretfully informed us that

be particularly challenging for Texas except

On defense the Red Raiders inherited

prospective nickel and multi-year starter

as a test of their ability to stay healthy and

another solid collection of scheme fits, again

Justus Parker has been suspended for a

overwhelm teams at home that they have

with one potential exception that could have

year by the NCAA and is consequently no

advantages against.

YOU HYD R AT E

W E D O NAT E

2019 Season Preview

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