Double Coverage 2016-10-05

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Wednesday, October 5, 2016

FEATURES

THE LINEUP

Dimitri Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 5

Keys to the Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 3

Malik Jefferson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 9 Charlie Strong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 12

Matchups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 4 Who Needs to Step Up? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 5 Players to Watch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 6 By the Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 7 Big 12 Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 7 Column: Strong Needs to Deliver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 8 Scenarios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 10 Heisman Watch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 11 Staff Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 13 Games to Watch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 14 Stock Up, Stock Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 15

Double Coverage Editor................Daniel Clay Design Editor..............................Lillian Michel Photo Editor............................Daulton Venglar Copy Editor.................................Victoria Recer Cover photo:.................................Juan Figueroa Writers Noah Brooks Claire Cruz Trenton Daeschner Steve Helwick Tyler Horka

Shane Lewis Sydney Rubin Michael Shapiro Ezra Siegel

2016 was supposed to be Charlie Strong’s year.

With two of his recruiting classes on campus and top Strong recruit Malik Jefferson entering his second season in Vance Bedford’s defense, the 2016 Longhorns were finally constructed in Strong’s vision. But after consecutive defensive lapses prompted losses against unranked California and Oklahoma State, fans and University higher-ups have begun to question the viability of that vision.

Strong has made an effort to right the ship by assuming defensive play-calling duties and demoting Bedford from defensive coordinator to defensive backs coach. Texas is Strong’s team now. Whether or not that is a good thing for the third-year head coach will be determined by how his team performs the rest of the season starting with this week’s Red River Showdown.

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Wednesday, October 5, 2016

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KEYS TO THE GAME

By Sydney Rubin @sydenyrrubin

Take advantage of big stage

Head coach Charlie Strong and the Longhorns have a lot on the line as they prepare to face No. 22 Oklahoma in the annual Red River Showdown on Saturday. The Cotton Bowl boasts a riotous environment, packed with screaming fans in crimson and burnt orange. The Longhorns can use the crowd’s enthusiasm to their advantage as they play on a national stage in this storied rivalry. The Longhorns need to come out focused and confident and play like the season depends on it.

The season is still young, but both teams have already ridden the college football rollercoaster. The Sooners fell out of the AP Top 25 after suffering two earlyseason losses to Houston and Ohio State, but crawled back in this week after edging out TCU, 52-46. Strong’s Longhorns are on the verge of letting a once-promising season slip away, but have a chance to get back in the driver’s seat if they can take advantage of the grand environment this showdown presents.

Daulton Venglar | Daily Texan Staff

Defense, defense, defense

The defensive unit, which has underperformed so far this season, needs to show up and force stops if the Longhorns want any shot at slowing the Sooners. Week after week, opposing quarterbacks have torched Texas’ defense. In last week’s 49-31 loss to Oklahoma State, quarterback Mason Rudolph threw for 392 yards and three touchdowns as Texas’ secondary missed tackle after tackle down field.

Texas ranks 116th nationally and last in the Big 12 in scoring defense, allowing opponents to score an average of 38.3 points per game. Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield is completing passes at a 67.8 percent clip on the season and is averaging 266.8 passing yards per game.

Texas is also the only team in the Big 12 that has yet to record an interception. Texas’ defense needs to pressure Mayfield in the

Daulton Venglar | Daily Texan Staff

pocket and and make plays on Oklahoma’s running backs and receivers down field.

Special teams needs to be sharp

Special teams errors plagued the Longhorns this season and last. Oklahoma State blocked three of Texas’ extra points last week, running one back for two points. Texas kicker Trent Domingue also missed his only field goal attempt in the loss to the Cowboys. Texas’ special teams personnel need to be sharp against the Sooners.

Despite a few mishaps, Texas has also had some shining moments on special teams this year. Freshman defensive back Brandon Jones is one of seven players in the country to block two punts this season. The Longhorns have potential, they just need to execute to come out on top against the Sooners.

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Wednesday, October 5, 2016

MATCHUPS

By Trenton Daechner @TrentDaeschner

Quarterback Advantage: Oklahoma Junior Baker Mayfield ranks second in the Big 12 in passing efficiency and poses a real scrambling threat. Mayfield will be looking to bounce back after struggling in last year’s game against Texas.

Freshman Shane Buechele has seen his ups and downs in recent weeks, but he’s still growing. For a kid like Buechele that grew up in a Sooner family, this week has an even bigger meaning.

Running Back Advantage: Oklahoma The Sooners feature two explosive backs in junior Samaje Perine and sophomore Joe Mixon. Both combined to rush for 203 yards and three touchdowns last week against TCU. Junior D’Onta Foreman and sophomore Chris Warren III each suffered injuries last week. Warren is out indefinitely, but Foreman will play Saturday. Freshman Kyle Porter could see a significant workload this week.

Wide Receiver Advantage: Tie The Longhorns took hardly any deep shots last week. Sophomore stalwarts John Burt and Jerrod Heard will need to be much more involved on Saturday.

Senior Dede Westbrook and sophomore Mark Andrews are Mayfield’s favorite receiving targets. The two have combined for 529 yards and six touchdowns this season.

Offensive Line Advantage: Texas The Texas offensive line has been very consistent thus far.

The Longhorns are averaging 261 yards per game on the ground and have only given up six sacks.

Oklahoma will be looking to avenge last year’s performance against Texas when the offensive line gave up six sacks. This season, the Sooners still remain vulnerable in that department.

Defensive Line Advantage: Oklahoma The Sooners gave up only 65 yards on the ground last week against TCU. Oklahoma’s defensive line will get a much tougher test against Texas’ running game and offensive line this week.

Missed tackles doomed the Texas defense from the get-go last week. The Longhorns’ pass rush will have to be sharp like it was in last year’s game to contain Baker Mayfield.

Linebacker Advantage: Oklahoma Junior Ogbonnia Okoronkwo leads the Sooners on defense and is tied for first in the Big 12 in sacks. Senior Jordan Evans is as consistent as they come, as he ranks third in the Big 12 in tackles.

Sophomore Malik Jefferson missed multiple point-blank tackles last week, as did so many other of his Longhorn teammates.

Texas will have to tackle much better if it hopes to slow down this Oklahoma offense.

Defensive Back Advantage: Tie The Texas secondary was gashed by the Cowboys. The unit is hurting badly, as Texas ranks eighth in the Big 12 in pass defense and last in pass defense efficiency.

Oklahoma is equally bad in its secondary. The Sooners rank ninth in the Big 12 in pass defense and ninth in pass defense efficiency.

Expect a lot of open receivers for both teams on Saturday.

Special Teams Advantage: Oklahoma Sophomore Austin Seibert is 20 for 20 on extra-point kicks this season, which alone should be enough to give the Sooners the advantage here. Sophomore Joe Mixon also leads the Big 12 in kick return average.

Texas had three extra points blocked last week, with one being returned for two points. Senior kicker Trent Domingue missed another field goal, and he’s now missed three of his last five.

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Opinion-5

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Texas native Flowers primed for WHO NEEDS TO STEP UP? redemption with Sooner offense

By Trenton Daeschner @TrentDaeschner

By Claire Cruz @claireecruz5

Oklahoma’s fullback Dimitri Flowers watched the Red River Rivalry every October when he was younger, but he never imagined being a part of it.

He was a Miami fan growing up and said he didn’t have much interest in going to Texas or Oklahoma. But the junior always recognized how big the matchup was, and now that he’s a part of it he appreciates it even more.

In last year’s matchup between the Longhorns and No. 10 Sooners, Flowers scored his first collegiate touchdown.

With 5:18 left in the third quarter, he caught a twoyard pass to cut Oklahoma’s deficit to seven, but the Sooners eventually lost, 24-17. The sting of defeat trumped Flowers’ milestone at first, but it’s special to him nonetheless.

“It wasn’t actually that cool then because we were losing at the time and ended up losing the game,” Flowers said. “But now, I think how lucky I am to score my first touchdown in a rivalry game. It was awesome.”

Flowers grew up in San Antonio, Texas and filled many roles for head coach Glenn Hill at Churchill High School.

He was a three-star recruit, ranked the No. 45 athlete in the state by Rivals and earned an AP Class 5A Second-Team All-State selection as a senior. He originally committed to Boise State, but flipped to Oklahoma and graduated early to join the Sooners in Jan. 2014.

“He did so many different things for us, I was worried that film wouldn’t fully project what type of player he was,” Hill said. “He’s such a dynamic player and he did great things on the field for us, but what we loved most was how much he enjoyed playing football. He plays with a passion and has a lot of fun.”

Hill also coached Dimitri’s father, Erik Flowers, in the mid-90’s at Roosevelt High School in San Antonio where they won the 1995 Class 5A Division II state championship.

Erik Flowers was a defensive end and went on to play at Trinity Valley Community College before finishing his collegiate career at Arizona State. He was selected as the No. 24 overall pick in the 2000 NFL draft by Buffalo.

Dimitri Flowers said his father is a big influence in his life and he calls him often to talk about “every little decision.” But Erik Flowers tries to stay out of the way when it comes down to decision time and trusts his son’s choices.

But now, I think how lucky I am to score my first touchdown in a rivalry game. It was awesome.

“I’m just here for guidance,” Erik Flowers said. “This is his dream, my dreams are over and done. Every decision is his.

It’s good to see him have the opportunity… it’s amazing and a blessing on top of that.”

The entire defense, part two

It was déjà vu last Saturday in Stillwater. It was missed tackle after missed tackle and blown assignment after blown assignment — the same problems that killed Texas just two weeks prior against California. Put simply, the Texas defense has been bad — really bad — and there have been no signs of any improvement that give reason to believe things will get better. Head coach Charlie Strong and defensive coordinator Vance Bedford had a full two weeks to right the ship and get their unit ready for an explosive Oklahoma State offense. But nothing changed, only that the defense looked even worse, giving up a head-spinning 555 yards of offense.

This week, the Longhorns face yet another dynamic offense, led by Oklahoma junior quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield, who ranks second in the Big 12 in passing efficiency, is one of the conference’s most dynamic offensive threats. Texas did a good job of containing Mayfield in last year’s Red River Showdown, sacking him six times and holding him to just 206 total yards. Whether or not the Longhorns can get anywhere near that type of performance this week is highly questionable the way things have been trending. Strong and Bedford need to find answers on defense before this once-promising season takes a real turn for the worst.

STEP UP page 6

Courtesy of Ty Russell | OU Athletics Junior Oklahoma fullback Dimitri Flowers scored his first career touchdown in last year’s Red River Showdown, but that score was not enough for the Sooners to pull off the victory.

Dimitri Flowers has done well in his Sooner career, acrruing 222 receiving yards and four touchdowns and earning an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention from conference coaches in 2015. His size, speed and versatility have Hill convinced that Dimitri Flowers can follow in his father’s footsteps and make it to the next level.

“I think the NFL might be more suited for him than college because of his skillset,” Hill said. “I wouldn’t tell Dimitri Flowers he can’t do something, he’d prove you wrong. He just gets better as he plays.”

But before Dimitri Flowers pursues that dream, he must prepare for another battle with Texas. Erik Flowers said he’ll be in the stands supporting his son, and Hill said this is the one game a year his wife, who graduated from Texas, won’t root for the Longhorns.

“It’s going to be almost like a brawl all four quarters,” Dimitri Flowers said. “It’s a pride thing. Everything outside kind of shuts down and both teams just play hard. It’s going to be a fight.”

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PLAYERS TO WATCH

Baker Mayfield — Quarterback Mayfield placed fourth in the 2015 Heisman Trophy race, accumulating 34 first place votes in the ceremony.

His junior year did not have an ideal beginning – his Sooners matched their 2015 loss total by starting 1-2. In his first three games, Mayfield took eight sacks and threw two interceptions, but he rebounded with a stellar two-way performance in a 52-46 offensive victory over TCU. He threw for 274 yards, rushed for 55 and accounted for four total touchdowns.

Mayfield completed 20-of-28 passes for 211 yards against Texas in 2015, but was sacked six times in the loss. this year in Dallas, Mayfield should constantly test the Texas secondary that ranks 95th nationally in passing yards allowed per game (274.8) in order to push the Sooners to a winning record.

By Steve Helwick @naqwerty3

Joe Mixon — Running back Oklahoma actually has NCAA’s all-time single-game rushing leader on the roster in Samaje Perine, but Mixon has been the most impressive back this season.

The sophomore plays an integral role in both the passing and rushing game for the Sooners, leading the team with 340 yards on the ground. The running back also ranks second on the team in receptions and third in receiving yards.

Mixon only has two offensive touchdowns on the season but is often utilized by the Sooners as a threat to help move the chains on long drives. Mixon also performs returning duties for Oklahoma, and even returned a kickoff 97 yards in a loss to Ohio State. Versatility is the key to his success and he should be found in a variety of roles for the Sooners on Saturday morning.

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Charles Walker — Defensive tackle The 304-pound junior is a highly touted prospect in the 2017 NFL draft.

Walker is the leader of Bob Stoops’ 3-4 defensive scheme and can be a nightmare for offensive lines.

As a 2015 All-Big 12 Second Team member, Walker recorded six sacks, 36 tackles and a forced fumble.

He has yet to replicate these numbers in 2016, but remains the heart of the Sooners’ defensive line. He enters the Red River Rivalry with seven tackles, including two tackles for loss.

If Walker hopes to increase his draft stock, a career performance against the Longhorns’ offensive line could draw the eyes of scouts.

Jordan Evans — Inside linebacker Evans leads the Sooners in tackles with 44 on the season. The senior has recorded double-digit tackles seven times in his career, including an 11-tackle performance against the Longhorns in 2015.

Evans is a recipient of accolades on and off the field, earning both All-Big 12 Second Team and Academic All-Big 12 First Team honors in his time at Oklahoma. He has seen continued success in 2016 with 3.5 tackles for loss in four contests.

Texas has been successful in the ground game this season, and Evans serves as the primary counter to the Longhorns’ backfield. By stalling the Longhorns offense, Evans has the opportunity to prevent a 1-3 record against Texas for his senior class.

STEP UP continues from page 5 The kicking game

It’s hard to figure how kicking extra points has become such a task — nay, obstacle — for Texas, but it has. The Longhorns had three extra points blocked against Oklahoma State, with one being returned for two points. It was head-scratching, yet it wasn’t exactly anything new.

Texas had an extra point blocked and taken back for two against Notre Dame in week one. To add to the bad play, senior kicker Trent Domingue missed another field goal against Oklahoma State. Domingue has now missed three of his last five attempts.

Special teams can often be overlooked, but they can be a deal-breaker in big games. The Red River Showdown is historically known for having big plays on special teams that have often had dramatic impacts on games. If Texas hopes to have any shot against Oklahoma, it cannot make crucial errors on special teams and in the kicking game.

Kyle Porter

KENOPLASTICS.COM

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Texas experienced major scares last week against Oklahoma State when sophomore running back Chris Warren III and junior running back D’Onta Foreman each left the game with injuries. Warren suffered a knee in-

Joshua Guerra | Daily Texan Staff

Senior safety Dylan Haines and the Texas defense have struggled to keep up with high-powered passing offenses.

jury and remains out indefinitely. Foreman injured his rib but is expected to play on Saturday. Even still, third-string freshman Kyle Porter will likely see an increased role. In three games this season, Porter has only had 15 carries but has ran the ball well, averaging 4.1 yards per rush.

The freshman out of Katy, Texas, should see a significant workload this week and will have to be ready when his number is called.

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Wednesday, October 5, 2016

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BY THE NUMBERS BIG 12 NOTEBOOK

By Noah Brooks

By Noah Brooks

@NTBrooks1011

@NTBrooks1011

61-44-5 Texas’ record against Oklahoma.

67

The Longhorns held the Sooners to just 67 rushing yards in last year’s Red River Showdown.

959

The passing yards by freshman quarterback Shane Buechele on the season. He’s averaging 239.75 yards a game.

35.25

The average number of points the Sooners have allowed per game.

12

The number of passing touchdowns allowed by Texas this season. They rank 117th in passing touchdowns allowed, while Oklahoma ranks 122nd with 13 passing touchdowns allowed.

55

The number of passing yards put up

by Texas against Oklahoma last year.

The Longhorns only passed 12 times, with nine being completions and two of those being touchdowns.

523

The total rushing yards allowed by Oklahoma this season. They rank 23rd in rushing defense.

0

The number of interceptions by Texas this season. They are just one of four schools who have not made an interception this season.

1900

The first time Texas and Oklahoma played. They have played each other every year since 1929.

The Longhorns have allowed at least 47 points in three of their games this season.

47

West Virginia Overcomes Kansas State to Remain Undefeated

In a rare defensive Big 12 battle, West Virginia came back from down 13 points against Kansas State to win 17-16 in Morgantown. The Mountaineers went scoreless in the first half and only gained the lead with six minutes left in the fourth quarter on a passing touchdown from senior quarterback Skyler Howard. Kansas State, for their part, has continued to look impressive (they haven’t allowed more than 26 points in a game this season) but

ultimately their offense sputtered.

Kansas State will put its defense to the test when it hosts Texas Tech next week, while West Virginia has a bye week.

Close Calls in Baylor, Oklahoma Games

Baylor remains with West Virginia as one of the two undefeated Big 12 teams left, but their record was nearly ruined in Ames, Iowa. Iowa State quickly shot off to a 14-0 lead early in the first and remained in the lead until the fourth quarter. Baylor scored 17 unanswered in the

fourth while holding Iowa State’s offense, and kicked the game-winning field goal to end the game 45-42. Baylor’s rushing game proved to be the deciding factor, totaling 469 combined yards on the ground.

Oklahoma was on the flip side of this when they played TCU. The Sooners ended the third quarter with a 49-24 lead before the Horned Frogs mounted a would-be comeback with 22 unanswered points. Oklahoma managed to get a field goal and hold off TCU in the

NOTEBOOK page 15

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Wednesday, Oc

Juan Figueroa | Daily Texan Staff

Bedford’s demotion backs Strong against the wall Head coach Charlie Strong is running out of options.

The third-year head coach has gone through eight different assistants since he arrived on campus in 2013. And after taking over the defense from now former defensive coordinator Vance Bedford on Monday, Strong has now demoted his original offensive and defensive coordinators in a three-year span.

“You’ve got to change with the game and you’ve got to do what you think is best for the program,” Strong said. “That’s what I’ve been trying to do is just piece it together and make sure we do what’s best.”

And while taking over the playcalling may help Texas’ withering defense — the team ranks last in the Big 12 in points allowed — it signals a bigger problem: Strong is backed against a wall.

He said he doesn’t think the move is a desperate measure for a desperate time. But without any coordinators left to take the fall, the burden to fix the Longhorns’ woefully inadequate defense falls solely on Strong’s shoulders.

“It’s not this big desperation all of the sudden,” Strong said. “I’ve done it before and I can see where I can help us. Sometimes you feel like you need new energy and eyes, and [I’m] hoping this will be a good move for that.”

By Ezra Siegel

Daily Texan Columnist @SiegelEzra

Strong’s future at Texas looks bleak in the national media.

Sports Illustrated’s Pete Thamel reported that Texas plans to move on from Strong after the season since the team lost 49–31 to Oklahoma State.

Additionally, big-time Texas booster Red McCombs told the San Antonio Express-News “it doesn’t do anybody any good to drag it out” if the University plans to cuts ties with the head coach.

But Strong’s future at Texas shouldn’t be written off yet. Texas still has eight games to play. And Strong still has time to prove himself, especially if he succeeds as the defense’s play-caller.

“He won a National Championship at Florida [as defensive coordinator] and honestly I expect the same thing,” sophomore linebacker Malik Jefferson said. “I expected him to call plays to and put us in successful spots.”

Strong’s players still voice support for their head coach. Jefferson said the players need to take more responsibility for the team’s struggles.

“People will look at the coaches and take it out on the coaches,” Jefferson said. “But we’re out there missing tackles.”

The program found itself in a similar position last year heading

into the Red River Rivalry. The Longhorns entered the matchup coming off a 50–7 loss at then-No. 4 TCU, stirring up skepticism in the national media regarding Strong’s future.

Texas then came out and shocked then-No. 10 Oklahoma, 24– 17. Strong’s players lifted him on top of their shoulders, sending the message that their head coach wasn’t done yet.

Still, the Longhorns’ struggles continued throughout the rest of the season as the team finished 5–7.

Strong has the chance to replicate last year — a win over the No. 20 Sooners would silence his doubters at least temporarily.

His players are rooting for — and trying to help — their coach as he tries to regain the trust of the fanbase.

But this time, Strong must sustain his success. There is nobody else to blame.

“All the players love Coach Strong and all the coaches love Coach Strong,” sophomore linebacker Breckyn Hager said. “Why are [fans] turning their back on him? We are out there playing the game and we know he’s a great coach and we’re telling you now, he’s the best in the business. Any other coach would just be second best.”

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ctober 5, 2016

Jefferson striving to rise above expectations

By Michael Shapiro @mshap2

People listen to Malik Jefferson. The sophomore linebacker has been the face of the Longhorn program since arriving on campus last year, a sign of hope and things to come for the burnt-orange fan base.

Jefferson came to Texas as the No. 10 player in the nation according to the 247sports composite rankings, and was the No. 1 player in the state of Texas. When he committed to come to Austin in Dec. 2014, Jefferson was the best player to ever join head coach Charlie Strong — and he probably still is.

“Anytime you’re in a recruiting process, there’s got to be a player, there’s got to be a marquee player – that was Malik Jefferson for us,” Strong said following Jefferson’s commitment. “When he got on board, it got us started. With him getting the program jump-started, he was able to sell the program.”

The Poteet high school product continued to impress in his freshman season, earning freshman All-American honors while ranking second on the Longhorns in tackles. Texas’ defense still struggled, but ended the year a respectable No. 5 in the Big 12 in scoring defense.

But four games into Jefferson’s sophomore year, the wheels

have fallen off for the Longhorn defense. They have given up over 45 points in three contests, allowing over 38 points per game. That figure places Texas last in the Big 12.

Jefferson’s play has suffered as well. He’s registered just one tackle for loss on the year, and has yet to consistently invade opposing backfields.

“I haven’t done anything to impact this team,” Jefferson said.

“That’s what’s eating me alive right now, but I know how to grow from it and know that there are bigger things out there. I need to make a bigger impact.”

So with questions persisting regarding the ailing defense, Jefferson presented a solution on Monday: himself.

The Mesquite native took responsibility for the defensive errors plaguing the Longhorns, telling the surrounding media that he must take control of the defense. As Texas’ most highly-touted player, Jefferson has to set the example.

“Malik Jefferson has to take account of the other 10 players on the field,” Jefferson said. “I just want to make sure everybody is ready and that starts in practice… I’m making sure I’m on guys’ butts about what they need to do.”

Texas now needs Jefferson more than ever. Strong demoted Vance Bedford on Monday, moving him from defensive coordinator to cornerbacks coach alongside Clay Jennings. Strong will now take complete control of the defense and assume play-calling duties.

The staff shakeup brought about a litany of questions, many of them directed at Strong’s job security. Sports Illustrated reported on Monday that Strong is “very close to losing his job at the end of the season.”

But Jefferson says he isn’t listening to the noise emanating from the Austin and national media. He said Texas’ coaches have put the players to succeed, but plays are not being made from those on the field.

“I don’t think it will be such a big change for us,” Jefferson. “I think we’re just going to go out and do what we need to do… We have to go out there and play ball, because we have missed areas all over the field, especially on the defensive side that we have never done.”

Nobody denies Malik Jefferson’s talent, nor do they deny his influence on the Longhorn defense. His impact is undeniable, but Texas will likely need Jefferson to step up if it wishes to compete in the Big 12 and save Strong’s job.

Daulton Venglar | Daily Texan Staff

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Wednesday, October 5, 2016

WINS IF / LOSES IF

By Shane Lewis @theREALsplewis

Texas Wins If

The Longhorns were gashed by an opposing quarterback once again this past Saturday.

Oklahoma State junior quarterback Mason Rudolph threw for 392 yards and three touchdowns while completing more than two thirds of his passes. Rudolph helped the Cowboys put up 49 points on the Texas defense, marking the third time this year the Longhorns have surrendered more than 40 points.

Through the Longhorn’s first four games, the team ranks near the top of the Big 12 both in sacks and rushing defense. However, the defense is allowing more than 250 passing yards per game and has yet to record an interception. At this point, it’s obvious what the Longhorns have to do to pull out a victory against Oklahoma this weekend. Their secondary must find a way to slow down the Sooner passing attack.

Oklahoma junior quarterback Baker Mayfield came into this season as a Heisman favorite, and is coming off of a strong performance against TCU. Mayfield efficiently orchestrated the Sooner offense, leading them to 52 points in a win over the Horned Frogs.

The Texas pass rush, led by sophomore linebacker Malik Jefferson’s two sacks, had a field day, bringing down Mayfield six times.

If Texas is to win this Saturday, they need a repeat defensive performance. The run defense must continue to be stout, and the pass rush must continue to get to the quarterback. If the secondary can take a step forward and at least contain the aerial game, Texas can claim victory in the Red River Showdown.

Texas Loses If

The Longhorns lose if they get into a shootout. Texas was able to pull out a high-scoring victory against Notre Dame in their first game, but have shown an inability to keep up with explosive offenses in losses to California and Oklahoma State.

Dating back to last season, the Longhorns are 1-8 when giving up more than 35 points.

Like almost every other offense in the Big 12, the Sooners are capable of putting up points.

Oklahoma is averaging just under 40 points a game, and has dynamic playmakers across the board. They will pose another challenge for the Longhorns, and if the Texas defense is unable to slow them down, Charlie Strong and company could be looking at a third straight loss.

Offensively, the Longhorns can help their defense by controlling time of possession and running the ball effectively. Keeping the Oklahoma offense off the field would go a long way in capturing a victory.

However, with sophomore running back Chris Warren III out for the game and junior running back D’onta Foreman coming off an abdominal injury, the Longhorns could have trouble accomplishing these tasks.

Ultimately, the Longhorns lose if they are unable to contain the Oklahoma offense and keep them off the field.

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Hook ‘Em, the Longhorns’ cheer mascot, stands on the field after a loss to OSU.

11

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

HEISMAN WATCH Lamar Jackson Louisville quarterback 2016: 1,625 passing yards, 688 rushing yards, 28 total touchdowns

Jackson’s quest for an undefeated season ended at the hands of Clemson in Death Valley on Saturday, but his Heisman dreams persist.

The sophomore dual-threat quarterback played excellently in the 42-36 loss, throwing for 295 yards and rushing for 162. Jackson tallied three total touchdowns for the Cardinals, who were three yards away from a game-winning score late in the contest. Jackson does not play defense for Louisville, so his only major fault Saturday was one interception.

Louisville’s upcoming schedule features no ranked opponents for five weeks — a perfect opportunity for the Cardinals offense to regain their rhythm and revert to dominance.

11

By Steve Helwick @naqwerty3

Greg Ward, Jr. Houston quarterback 2016: 1,325 passing yards, 178 rushing yards, 13 total touchdowns

Ward did not start Houston’s 2015 loss to Connecticut, but he made a statement in the program’s 42-14 win over the Huskies in 2016.

Ward threw for a career-high 389 yards in the conference victory, adding 65 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

The tough playmaker finished a near perfect game at the Huskies’ expense last Thursday, completing 84.2 percent of passes with three touchdowns and zero interceptions.

The senior quarterback has now won 18 straight games for the No. 6 Cougars.

Ward has battled adversity as well, overcoming a shoulder injury this season.

His Cougars have five straight weeks of unranked opponents before the anticipated matchup against Lamar Jackson’s Louisville Cardinals.

Jabrill Peppers Michigan outside linebacker 2016: 9.5 tackles for loss, 246 punt return yards, 1 touchdown

Peppers isn’t just an outside linebacker. The junior athlete played strong safety at the beginning of his Michigan tenure. He can also be seen returning punts for the maize and blue. Peppers plays offense as well, previously lining up as a running back behind the Wolverines’ powerful offensive line.

He may possess the most versatile skillset in college football, and has been successfully demonstrating his abilities for the 5-0 Wolverines. Peppers leads the nation in punt return yards with 246, and has added one touchdown on a return this season. He also ranks fifth in the FBS in tackles for loss with 9.5.

Peppers’ assorted stat-line additionally includes recorded two sacks, 24 rushing yards, 95 kick return yards and 30 tackles.

J.T. Barrett, Ohio State quarterback 2016: 888 passing yards, 205 rushing yards, 17 total touchdowns

Another week, another blowout for Barrett and the Buckeyes. In week five’s showcase, Barrett incinerated a helpless Rutgers defense with 238 passing yards and four touchdowns on only 29 attempts.

He has capitalized on only 25.5 attempts per game this season, and owns a 7:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

In the 58-0 shutout over Rutgers, the junior set the Ohio State record for career passing touchdowns with 58, surpassing Bobby Hoying.

His Buckeyes rank third in the nation in scoring average, posting 57 points per game. Facing minimal resistance in 2016, Ohio State continues its undefeated excursion on Saturday against Indiana.

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12

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Strong looking to repeat success of 2015 Showdown

By Tyler Horka @TexasTy95

Head coach Charlie Strong made his rounds at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas in 2014, shaking hands and exchanging words with Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops after a slim five-point loss to the Sooners. Strong’s debut in the annual Red River Showdown ended in heartbreak.

Strong and the Longhorns were once again long shots to beat No. 10 Oklahoma in 2015, but the aftermath last year was different.

Strong made his way around the historic stadium, but this time he did so after a triumphant, unexpected victory.

The players hoisted Strong above their shoulders, and there was a sense of both relief and optimism that Texas earned the victory that would cast the program back into the national spotlight.

But it didn’t turn out to be that type of win.

The Longhorns are one year removed from their 24-17 upset victory over the Sooners, but this year’s team has just as many unanswered questions as the one that entered last year’s Oklahoma game with a 1-4 record. But Strong isn’t worried about the rumors that his job is in jeopardy.

“We still have plenty of games left,” Strong

said. “That’s when I said to our players, you just go play and let me handle everything else.

It doesn’t matter to me any more, because what’s going to be said is going to be said.”

Given Strong’s track record in the Red River Showdown, it is no surprise that he is not concerned. His loss in 2014 was a close one — 31-26 — and his team outgained the Sooners 482 to 232 in total yards.

Last year, Strong’s team dominated the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball much like the way it had the year prior. Texas gained 313 yards on the ground to Oklahoma’s 67.

“I think it’s [our] mentality,” sophomore offensive lineman Connor Williams said. “I think we go into the game knowing that it’s up for us to [step up] for ourselves. Other teams can’t stop us. So I mean, we can run the ball all over them and they can’t do anything about it.”

This year, Strong and offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert bring a running game to the Cotton Bowl that’s even more capable of gashing the Sooners’ defense. Texas ranks No. 14 in the country in rushing yards per game with 261.

“It’s just the trust that [offensive line] coach [Matt] Mattox has on the offensive line,” senior offensive lineman Patrick Vahe said. “[If] we’re going to run power, we’re going to

Texas head coach Charlie Strong entered last season’s Red River Showdown amid rumors that a loss could prompt his dismissal, and delivered an unexpcted 24-17 upset victory.

Daulton Venglar Daily Texan Staff

run power. But it’s just execution at that time.”

Strong’s success against Oklahoma last year came at a time of turmoil for the program. Texas started 1-4 for the first time since 1956 and had it lost to the Sooners that day, Strong might not be coaching in this week’s game — let alone any other game this season.

But despite the rumors of his being fired flaring up once again, he’s here. And he has an opportunity to get the type of win that would keep him around on the 40 Acres until at least this season’s end.

Strong thought he had the sort of victory over OU last season that would solidify his place at Texas for many years to come, and he’s upset that wasn’t the case.

“I look at that game and I do go back to that game, actually,” Strong said. “It’s almost like, ‘Did we know how to win and did we know how to handle winning?’ I look at that, I do. I go back to that game all the time because that could have been a turn right there, because it takes one game to really turn the program.”

BIG 12 POWER RANKINGS

By Shane Lewis @theREALsplewis

Baylor (5-0)

The Bears rallied to beat Iowa State 45-42 on Saturday, scoring 17 unanswered points in the fourth quarter.

Senior running back Shock Linwood had a monster game, rushing for 237 yards in a contest in which Baylor amassed a whopping 469 yards on the ground.

The Bears now enter a soft spot in their schedule, with two byes and a matchup against Kansas in the upcoming weeks.

West Virginia (4-0)

The Mountaineers erased a 13-point fourth quarter deficit to stun Kan-

sas State 17-16. West Virginia is playing some of the best defensive football in the Big 12, and is emerging as a serious contender for the conference title. However, that defense will be put to the test with a matchup against high-scoring Texas Tech next weekend.

Oklahoma (2-2)

In one of the best games of the week, the Sooners held off a furious TCU rally to beat the Horned Frogs 5246. Oklahoma put together their best offensive performance of the year, at one point scoring touchdowns on four straight drives.

Oklahoma State (3-2)

Junior quarterback Mason Rudolph put together his best game of the season, throwing for 392 yards and three touchdowns to help the Cowboys topple Texas 49-31. Oklahoma State has upcoming matchups against Iowa State and Kansas before hosting West Virginia in a huge matchup.

TCU (3-2)

The Horned Frog defense struggled against Oklahoma, giving up 534 yards in the loss. Junior quarterback Kenny Hill and the offense continue to put up big numbers, but the team’s

deficiencies on the other side of the football are proving too much to overcome.

Texas (2-2)

After starting the season 2-0, Texas has now dropped its last two. Their opening season win against Notre Dame has lost its luster, as both the Irish and the Longhorns have struggled in recent weeks. The slumping Texas defense now must get ready for an Oklahoma team fresh off dropping 52 points on TCU.

Kansas State (2-2)

The Wildcats missed a great opportunity to open

conference play with a win against West Virginia. But the conference’s top ranked defense faltered late, giving up 14 fourth quarter points after only allowing a field goal through three quarters.

Texas Tech (3-1)

Another week, another huge outing for the Red Raider offense, which put up 621 yards in a 55-19 rout of Kansas. Texas Tech is averaging more than 55 points a game, but on the flip side, their defense is giving up 44 points per contest.

Iowa State (1-4) The

Cyclones

lost

a

heartbreaker to Baylor, missing out on a huge upset. The Iowa State offense looked unstoppable through three quarters, but faltered late with two three-and-outs in the final frame.

Kansas (1-3)

The Jayhawks were shredded by two different quarterbacks on Saturday, allowing Texas Tech juniors Patrick Mahomes II and Nic Shimonek to throw for four touchdowns apiece. Things don’t get much easier for Kansas, as they host TCU this weekend.

13

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

NOAH BROOKS

DANIEL CLAY

CLAIRE CRUZ

TRENTON DAESCHNER

STEVE HELWICK

TYLER HORKA

SHANE LEWIS

SYDNEY RUBIN

Overall Record

23-17

22-18

20-20

28-12

26-14

22-18

20-20

21-19

21-29

24-16

Last Week’s Record

6-4

6-4

3-7

7-3

6-4

5-5

5-5

4-6

6-4

5-5

Texas vs.

No. 20 Oklahoma

Oklahoma 45-44

Oklahoma 45-35

Oklahoma 45-24

Oklahoma 41-31

Oklahoma 42-27

Oklahoma 42-30

Oklahoma 45-21

Texas 42-35

Oklahoma 34-30

Texas 31-38

No. 1 Alabama vs.

No. 16 Arkansas

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

Alabama

LSU vs.

No. 18 Florida

LSU

Florida

Florida

Florida

LSU

Florida

LSU

Florida

Florida

Florida

No. 9 Tennessee vs.

No. 8 Texas A&M

Texas A&M

Tennessee

Texas A&M

Texas A&M

Texas A&M

Texas A&M

Texas A&M

Tennessee

Texas A&M

Texas A&M

No. 25 Virginia Tech vs.

No. 17 North Carolina

N. Carolina

Virginia Tech

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

N. Carolina

No. 21 Colorado vs.

USC

Colorado

USC

Colorado

USC

USC

Colorado

Colorado

USC

Colorado

USC

No. 23 Florida State vs. No. 10 Miami (FL)

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Florida State

Miami (FL)

Arizona vs.

No. 24 Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Utah

Texas Tech vs.

Kansas State

Texas Tech

Kansas State

Texas Tech

Kansas State

Texas Tech

Texas Tech

Kansas State

Texas Tech

Texas Tech

Texas Tech

Auburn vs.

Mississippi State

Auburn

Auburn

Auburn

Auburn

Auburn

Auburn

Mississippi State

Auburn

Auburn

Auburn

MICHAEL SHAPIRO

EZRA SIEGEL

14

14

GAMES TO WATCH LSU vs. No. 18 Florida Saturday – 11 a.m. – ABC LSU claims three consecutive games in this series, and enters Saturday morning’s edition with a 3-2 record.

LSU interim coach Ed Orgeron assumed the reigns after the dispatching of longtime head Les Miles. Orgeron’s tenure began magnificently, with a 42-7 pulverization of Missouri.

Florida exhibits a relentless defense but has shown offensive struggles over recent history.

Florida quarterback Luke Del Rio’s status remains unknown, and the sophomore could miss a third straight game with a knee injury.

But LSU junior running back Leonard Fournette is expected to return from injury.

Florida has not defeated a team with a winning record but will earn itself the opportunity in Gainesville.

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

By Steve Helwick @naqwerty3

No. 9 Tennessee vs. No. 8 Texas A&M Saturday – 2:30 p.m. – CBS For five weeks, Tennessee experienced initial struggles before inexplicably escaping victorious. The Volunteers trailed by double digits in four games, but have outscored opponents 114-38 in second halves.

A miracle was monumental in preserving Tennessee’s latest victory over Georgia, as sophomore wide receiver Jauan Jennings caught a 43-yard Hail Mary pass from senior quarterback Joshua Dobbs as time expired.

The Volunteers face another tough opponent – undefeated Texas A&M in Aggieland.

The Aggies, led by senior transfer quarterback Trevor Knight, have rolled through three SEC opponents this year. With a victory, Texas A&M earns bowl eligibility and starts 6-0 for the first time since 1994.

No. 25 Virginia Tech vs. No. 17 North Carolina Saturday – 2:30 p.m.

The Tar Heels rose comfortably into the rankings after their fourth consecutive victory last Saturday.

Boosted by the heroics of senior kicker Nick Weiler, North Carolina upset Florida State on a long, 54-yard field goal to start 2-0 in conference. The opposing Hokies fell to Tennessee by three touchdowns at the Bristol Motor Speedway but throttled their other three challengers by a combined 109 points.

Junior receiver Isaiah Ford leads Virginia Tech with 376 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season. In a star receiver matchup, North Carolina contributes Ryan Switzer, sixth in the nation with 587 receiving yards.

Both offenses will be on full display, so points should readily flow in Chapel Hill.

No. 23 Florida State vs. No. 10 Miami (Fl.) Saturday – 7 p.m. – ABC Florida State was stunned in week five after falling at home to North Carolina on a Tar Heel field goal. The Seminoles have a chance to rebound and beat their second ranked team and first ACC opponent of the year.

Mark Richt succeeded for over a decade at Georgia and has guided the Hurricanes to a perfect start in 2016. Miami’s highest caliber opponents of the season have been Georgia Tech and Appalachian State, so this rivalry game in Hard Rock Stadium will be its toughest test of the season.

Junior running back Dalvin Cook finally emerged for the Seminoles’ offense after racking up 407 rushing yards in two weeks.

Miami’s offense counters with highly touted prospect Brad Kaaya, a junior pro-style quarterback with a talented arm.

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Classifieds-15

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

STOCK UP STOCK DOWN

By Noah Brooks @NTBrooks1011

Stock Up: Michael Dickson

Stock Down: Tackling

Zoe Fu | Daily Texan Staff

Missed tackles were the downfall of the Longhorn defense against Oklahoma State. Persistent tackling issues could pose a problem for Texas against high-flying Big 12 offenses.

Zoe Fu | Daily Texan Staff

♲

final minutes of the game to win 52-46. Oklahoma improved to 2-2 while TCU fell to 3-2.

Texas Tech had a scare against Kansas Friday night when their star quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a shoulder injury and left in third quarter.

However, backup quarterback Nic Shimonek controlled the offense just as well. Mahomes and Shimonek had four touchdowns each in Tech’s 55-19 rout of the Jayhawks.

Tech will head to Kansas State while Kansas

will host TCU. The latter matchup will be interesting to watch due to the Jayhawks’ tendency to play the Horned Frogs closer than expected.

Oklahoma, West Virginia Enter AP Poll

After beating No. 22 TCU, Oklahoma reentered the poll at the No. 20 spot, while TCU dropped out. In addition, West Virginia made their poll debut this season in the No. 22 spot, the first time they’ve been ranked in nearly a year. Baylor stayed put at No. 13, while, as expected, Texas fell from the poll.

Stock Down: Special Teams

It was a tough and very unusual game for Texas’ special teams unit. Three of the Longhorns’ extra-point attempts were blocked by Oklahoma State, and one of those was returned by the Cowboys for a safety – the second time this year that this has happened.

Texas senior kicker Trent Domingue has struggled in the past two games, missing three field goals out of five attempts, and the kick protection has shown weaknesses this season. The kicking squad needs to gain consistency and avoid giving up and missing easy points.

Stock Up: Offensive Line

Despite playing without top lineman Kent Perkins, the Texas offensive line didn’t miss a beat against Oklahoma State.

NOTEBOOK continues from page 7

Backup QB Shines for Tech

One bright spot among the special teams, however, has been sophomore punter Michael Dickson. Dickson made perhaps one of the Longhorns’ most exciting plays of the game when he read the punt coverage after taking the deep snap, and ran for a first down instead of kicking the ball away.

While Texas failed to capitalize on his smart play, Dickson’s decision still proved helpful in getting the Cowboys deeper into their own territory. Against Oklahoma State, he averaged 45.2 yards per punt with a long of 51 yards.

Dickson’s punting has been a continuous bright spot this season, as he ranks in the top five punters in the FBS and averaged 49.1 yards a punt.

To say that the Longhorns defense struggled with tackling against the Oklahoma State offense is an understatement.

It wasn’t uncommon to see an Oklahoma State wide receiver break several tackles for a long gain — the Cowboys had four receivers who had a long of at least 34 yards and the Longhorn defenders seemed hesitant to tackle on several drives when they could have made stops.

While Texas’ defensive efforts did improve as the game progressed, the beginning of the game especially exposed their troubles with tackling. Giving receivers room to break tackles will undoubtedly hurt Texas, especially in a conference filled with powerful receivers.

15

Despite missing Kent Perkins, the team’s most experienced lineman, Texas’ offensive line had a great game against Oklahoma State. For the second time this season, the unit allowed zero sacks and it continued to help Texas’ flourishing running game by opening up holes in the defensive line.

The offensive line paved the way for 329 rushing yards, including rushes of 62 yards from D’Onta Foreman and 46 from Chris Warren III. With Perkins returning against Oklahoma, Texas should be able rely on the line to protect freshman quarterback Shane Buechele and continue enabling the running game.

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