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Charlie Strong met the media following the Longhorns' 50-43 loss to the Golden Bears on Saturday. Of course, one of the first questions presented to Strong was how he felt about staff changes. In his reply, Strong stated, "We have two weeks to look at it. I can and will be more involved. We are all accountable." When asked about what his current role is, Strong mentioned that he "is involved in all of the meetings" but then lets the coaches do their own work. Among several others, Strong mentioned Breckyn Hager and Malcolm Roach as "the most confident players on the team." That makes the defensive decision to not play either until halfway through the second quarter more puzzling. Texas had two sacks this game, one coming from both Hager and Roach each. Speaking of sacks, here's an interesting statistic for you. Texas leads the Big 12 in sacks with 11. More surprisingly, Texas is ranked 10th in the nation in sacks. However, everything is not about sacks. A telling statistic is always the number of quarterback hurries throughout a game. Against the Texas defense, Cal QB Davis Webb was not pressured often, which Strong did not hesitate to mention. "We have to make the QB uncomfortable and quick with his feet. He can't have all day to throw."The most interesting thing I garnished from Strong's availability was what he said about the team's demeanor. He mentioned that due to a long flight, he did not make the team wear a coat and tie. He admitted that this was a mistake, and that the team was still "riding a wave" from their 2-0 start. "I don't care if we travel 800 miles, they will be wearing their coat and tie from now on." Ultimately, Charlie Strong knew coming into this season that his job is on the line. He is nowhere near being safe yet, as this season has a long ways to go. The most important thing, however, is that Strong still seems to be confident. He knows he has a good team, and he reiterated time and time again that he will do whatever is necessary to fix the team's woes. "I have a different team right now. A team that is much more mature and that has been through tough losses." After Strong met with the media, several players were made available. First, Paul Boyette came to the podium. When asked if Vance Bedford deserved the blame for the defense's performance on Saturday, Boyette was quick to counter. "Coach Bedford isn't a player anymore. It's about the kids that go perform." Boyette said the tone in the defensive room was that they "underachieved" and reiterated that Saturday's performance level "won't happen again." Boyette said that the team was "definitely overconfident" and that it's up to the leaders on the team to keep everyone humble. Lastly, Boyette seemed surprised that the defense performed so poorly. He mentioned that the whole week of practice, the defense was "on point" and that their preperation for Cal was "fantastic." Texas currently ranks 109th nationally in points allowed per game. Next, Tyrone Swoopes met with the media. There really is not much to say here, as Swoopes is a man of few words. One thing that Tyrone mentioned, like every other player, was that the game came down to execution. When asked about what happened to the offense in the second half, Swoopes said, "Other than penalties, I couldn't tell you what else happened. I have not watched the game yet." The only other interesting thing Swoopes said was that playing with two QB's is "not as hard as it seems." Tyrone had high praise for Shane Buechele, and said he was not surprised that his play in fall camp carried over to the season. After Swoopes, Tim Cole was up to the podium. Cole has a passionate demeanor about him. That was obvious when a journalist asked Cole if he was "scared" that Charlie Strong would get more involved on defense. Cole's response? "He's a defensive coach, and is already involved. Why would that be scary?" Tim was not amused. In terms of defense, Cole said that this is not the standard fans will see this year. "We won't let this game be the face of our defense. We had one bad game and will correct it." Lastly, Dylan Haines met with the media. Not much was asked other than what happened on the controversial fumble that ended Texas' chances, where Cal RB Vic Enwere fumbled the ball before crossing the goal line on what seemed to be the dagger in Texas' heart. "I saw that he dropped the ball close to the goal line. I did the exact same thing once in high school." Haines mentioned that after he picked the ball up, he started to run when the ref "told [me] to give him the ball. I wish I would have kept running." Lastly, Haines reiterated the same word as all other players. Execution. "It's really that simple." Charlie Strong knew coming into the season that his job was on the line. Now starting the season 2-1, there is a lot of football left that can determine his fate. Strong knows that the defense is an issue. What will he do to fix those issues? The Longhorns biggest game of the year is arguably in two weeks, when the Longhorns travel to Stillwater to take on the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Will the Longhorns rise from the ashes of defeat? Or will they be swept away? We will see on October 1st. Extra: Davis Webb said post game that Vance Bedford mentioned that if Webb were still in the Big 12, he would be "a top 4 quarterback." That lit a fire under Webb, where he screenshotted Bedford'a quote as extra motivation. Webb certainly looked better than a top 4 Big 12 QB on Saturday, primarily due to the poor play of Bedford's defensive unit.

Charlie Strong met with the media on Monday following a 41-7 victory over the UTEP Miners on Saturday evening. Here are some highlights from today's press conference. Strong highlighted the defense and their ability to get off of the field as a crucial component to Texas' upcoming matchup against Cal. Strong mentioned that this weekend is a "business trip" and that "playing good defense can take a home crowd out of the game." On the negative side, Strong mentioned that he is "very concerned" about penalties. After Saturday's game, Texas currently ranks 5th in the FBS for total penalty yardage. Strong stated the team's need to "be a more disciplined football team," while not hesitating to mention that several players would pay for bonehead penalties. On a positive note, Strong gave out praise to several players on Monday. Strong called Shane Buechele "calm with a quiet confidence about him." He mentioned that Shane will come up to any and every player just to have conversations with them. It's easy to tell that Strong has gained much more confidence since Buechele came to the 40 acres. One last interesting note from Strong's availability is that he mentioned the team looked sluggish in practice after a physical fight with Notre Dame. Although that is not too surprising, the interesting thing that Strong said was that a senior came up to him one day and said, "I know you're worried about our mindset this week. I promise you there will not be a letdown." As most have previously stated, there is just something different about this team this year. After coach Strong was done with the media, senior WR Jacorey Warrick made his way to the podium. Although Warrick did not have too much to say of substance, we learned some interesting facts about him. Both of Warrick's parents were big band participants in their glory days. Warrick said that his parents would try to throw some instruments at him, but he "always loved football." When asked about the nickname "Petey," Warrick gave credit to his mother's first cousin. He said that her cousin wanted to name him Petey at birth, but his mom was not having any part of that. Eventually, the name stuck. Most importantly, Warrick said that his sense of optimism is what has kept him focused and ready for his shot at playing time while at Texas. In this new offense, Warrick has made the most of his opportunity. Malik Jefferson spoke to the media after Warrick. Jefferson has an extremely confident demeanor, and does not seem like a true sophomore. The most interesting thing Jefferson had to say was how much different playing on the road as a freshman is as opposed to playing at home. Although he's a sophomore, Jefferson said he will "Tell those guys to stay focused. Me being young still, I can tell them how it feels." Jefferson has taken on a leadership role this year, and it shows. Lastly, when asked about Malcolm Roach, Malik had nothing but praise for the freshman. "[Roach] makes sure that everybody knows his name." Last but not least, senior DT Paul Boyette made his way to the podium. When asked about his wife Imani Boyette making the WNBA playoffs, Paul did not hesitate to make some humor of the question. "I'm happy about it. I get more allowance." Boyette is a charismatic and well-spoken leader on this football team. When asked about the key to the game on Saturday, Boyette made it clear that the "front 7 must have an incredible game," in order for the defense to be successful. Although Boyette didn't say much, he is very confident in his teammates on defense. Some important notes on Cal: In 2 games, Cal's defense has given up 72 points. In a particularly weak run defense, D'onta Foreman and Chris Warren III should have a field day. This will be Cal's first home game of the season. Therefore, the stadium will be packed. Preparation and leadership will be key in making sure a young Texas team is ready for a hostile environment. Davis Webb attempted a school record 72 passes in a losing effort to San Diego State last weekend. The Texas defense knows that Cal's offense relies almost entirely on the passing attack. They also know that Davis Webb is not a mobile quarterback. If the Texas defense can produce a pass rush on Saturday, Webb will make mistakes. Texas faces Cal at 9:30 CT on Saturday. The game will air live on ESPN. Texas is currently sitting as 7.5 point favorites over the Golden Bears. This will be a big test for Texas on the road. Going into conference play at 3-0 would be huge for the Longhorns' confidence.

This is a new hype song for the '16 UT Longhorn Football team. Press play and share to get the fans and players pumped up! Hook 'Em Horns!

regardless of how any Longhorns fan feels about whether Charlie Strong is the right fit at Texas it is time for all Texas fans to give full support for the team. Charlie will coach team in 2016 whether you like it or not but hopefully with addition of very talented 2016 recruiting class so we need to quit talking about hiring Herman or Chip Kelly or any other coach. let`s give Charlie the 2016 season and we can judge his future after 2016 season has played out. for those that want him gone your reward is if team falters with another poor season that will seal his fate. if 2016 turns around you get to witness your team surge back to life. it is a win/win for those anti-Strong because either Texas wins or the new coach has 2 talented classes of recruits waiting. my reason for bringing this up you see what is going on to the east of ATX and what that is doing to recruiting. kids change minds almost daily let`s not give them reason to avoid being a Longhorn.

How bad are things at Texas right now? Let me see, hmmm. 1) We lost our first game, 2) The offense didn't look very good, though there were a few bright spots, imo, 3) We have no players who are suspended for drugs, theft, disrespecting women, or academic probation, 4) We have a coach who is willing to make changes when he knows they are needed, 5) We have a coach who is well-respected by current and past players as a man and a coach. Ok, now, let's talk football. Swoopes was out there competing, and I think he will leave Texas with a degree and be very successful in a career other than football. He's a smart young man, but he does not mentally process quickly enough to quarterback a team. I don't care about his arm strength - it doesn't mean a thing if he can't make the decision fast enough to put the ball into play. I have been recovering from surgery, and don't have a recording of the game. If you do, would someone please watch the game and count the number of times Swoopes actually got the ball to a playmaker. I did that for a few series, and the number was shockingly low. In fact, the attempt to get the ball to a playmaker was shockingly low. Heard, for the short time he was in, made things happen, then there was an ugly penalty, Heard got the wind knocked out of him and had to come out. By the time Heard could come back in, I thought it was Swoopes' mess to clean up, and he might as well do it. In fact, were I the coach, I would go back to Austin, put Heard with the 1's, and redesign the offense around his skills. If Watson can't or isn't willing to do it, put a 'For Sale' sign in his front yard. Put Traylor in charge of Heard's development, or if he isn't a qb coach bring in Kevin Murray to develop Heard, as a consultant, if need be. Heard has the goods. He moved the ball, for goodness sakes, and I thought that was the name of the game. He has a quick mind, quick feet, and he distributes to playmakers. I thought quarterbacks got the ball to their playmakers. By the way, Screw Arm Strength, Colt didn't have the strongest arm in CFB, but he was a great college qb. Heard's arm isn't strong? It's just an excuse Watson, and frankly, I don't give a damn. I want to win. John Burt and Foreman, were very bright spots, if Swoopes could have just gotten the ball to them...ahem! Not their fault. Defense: Let's hear it for Malik Jefferson: He was the MVP. Take a bow young man. Kris Boyd, so glad you are here. Same with the rest of the freshman and Poona and redshirt freshmen. Vance: I think you were playing our db's off trying to avoid getting the freshmen burned. Screw it, and go for broke. Let's play it straight up, put our talented freshmen in the receivers hip pockets, and if we get burned, we get burned, BUT we will make a game of it. We need guys in the film room, ready to jump some routes, pick off some passes. We cannot protect as many freshmen as we played. We must rely on their skill to make some plays, and accept the blown assignments as freshmen mistakes. Now, the Swoopes experiment should be over, Shawn. There is no upside. I've yet to see a slow deer, with the 'deer in the headlights look' that doesn't end up as roadkill. Swoopes has tried, he is a great kid, but he simply doesn't have the skill to be a D1 qb. You were wrong. Admit it, and move on. Heard has an upside, unfortunately, Swoopes does not. If anyone expected our defense to be better than last year for this first game, I want some of what you are having. It's got to be better than the pain meds the doc gave me, and that is a triplicate narc. Our defense will come together nicely. Give it a game or two. We have our foundation class, and we need another good one, which we will get. I saw someone reference Charlie's look in the 4th quarter. They thought he looked confused. Bull. He was pissed. He saw Burt waiting for passes that weren't delivered. He saw Watson's 'new offense'. Charlie will take the blame in public, but I wouldn't want to be Watson behind closed doors. Just watch, wait, and listen. Hook 'em! ps: Pretty certain there are typos and even things left out (took pain meds about 45 minutes ago). Please excuse any mistakes.

It's that time of the year..... Football is so close you can smell it. Players are reporting today and the first fall practice gets underway tomorrow. For today's presser, Cotcher is on-campus and in attendance. Be sure to follow him on twitter @MLCotcher for updates. We will post content here and want your takes on what is said, etc. Media will have access to tomorrow's practice which means we will have a report afterward.

Hi newbie here, so forgive me if I'm crossing any lines, but I recently read the 2015 Texas Longhorn Football Prospectus: Thinking Texas Football and it's really good preview of the 'Horns, our opponents and the Big 12. It's thorough, well-written with an entertaining writing style. Maybe everyone already knows about it, but I wanted to pass on a rec. Hook 'em!

However that does not necessarily mean as a starter! Good quotes from Strong today in down in Houston... "I hope he's (Swoopes) been watching that tape wondering what the hell happened," Strong said. "He just can't turn the ball over. He's so hard on himself that it's almost like you've got to get him out of the jar. You've got to come back, Tyrone. There was a really bad game, but you've got to look at it, too. Whenever the stage is set, you have to go perform on that stage, and he didn't perform that night because everything was in line. You had a national audience. You had a top-five team. You can't turn the football over. That cannot happen." "He's got my full support because of the way we're looking at it right now is we've got to go out and recruit, get better, make sure we develop what we have, let him develop, and see where he is," Strong said. "He has it. We just have to make sure. We've got to be smart about what we do with him and how we go out and recruit." "It's going to be open competition (in 2015)," Strong said. "That's going to happen. He's going to have to play a lot better." Those quotes were from various sources, here is a write up by the statesman... http://longhorns.blog.statesman.com/2014/12/09/charlie-strong-on-qb-tyrone-swoopes-hes-got-my-full-support/ I really like how CS does not candy coat it. You perform or you don't and we will move on when we have someone that will. I will support you, but that does not mean I will make you a starter. We are headed in the right direction guys!!

Was race a factor in Charlie Strong's long wait to land a college football head coaching job? Strong shares his experiences over the course of his coaching career with Seth Davis.

This week's edition of Questions Answered is HERE

Interesting day with coaches & players. Read about it HERE.

Cotcher's at the evening presser now at Moncrief. Presser was supposed to begin at 6:30 and Strong is running a bit behind.. An update on Shipley, who injured his hamstring:

Galena Park North Shore Offensive Lineman Tyler Moore is making a name for himself on and off the football field. He’s a big kid with lots of power and it’s no surprise he caught the eye of Texas Offensive Coordinator Joe Wickline even before Wickline took the job under Charlie Strong (while employed at Oklahoma State). He’s also a hard worker with great discipline. While most high-school students are soaking up the summer sun and catching-up on sleep, Moore has placed a priority on two things: improving his football acumen and academics. His days are regimented, as he is taking a college introductory class at a local community college in the mornings and closing his summer evenings with two night classes to ensure an early (December, 2014) graduation from North Shore High School. In between is football, and lots of it. Moore boasts a 3.8 G.P.A. and intends to keep his grades up, all of which has served him well in his journey as a student-athlete that will soon play college football at a major Division I football program. Moore continues to work on his conditioning each day, getting leaner and more agile. When we saw him at the Houston Nike Football Training Camp in April he weighed almost 340 lbs. On a 6-3 frame he looked absolutely menacing. That was then and this is now…. With his new strength and conditioning routine he has dropped 30 lbs. over the last handful of months and added noticeable muscle to a much leaner frame. Tyler told us among the obvious advantages to dropping extra weight, it has helped him to be “stronger and quicker off the line.” At 310 lbs. today he looks tougher in the trenches than he did in April. As far as prospective colleges are concerned, Moore’s offer list grew slowly but has picked up a lot of momentum. After attending multiple camps in which he was able to showcase his strength and skillset, more teams began to take notice. He has received offers from Illinois, Louisiana Tech, Oregon State, Minnesota, New Mexico, Texas, Texas State, North Texas and Colorado. While Texas is currently the only Big 12 program to offer to Moore, just about every team in the conference has shown an interest in him. Oklahoma and TCU are intrigued enough to maintain consistent communication with Moore. His dad Samson, who coached Tyler at an early age and continues to guide him on and off the field, told us that “Texas is in a good position with Tyler right now.” Tyler likes the idea of potentially playing with his childhood friend and North Shore teammate, Tristian Houston (Texas commit 2015) at the next level. “North Shore would definitely be represented on the 40 Acres” says Moore. Moore attended Charlie Strong’s inaugural “Under the Lights” Camp on Friday and had this to say about the camp: “It was an awesome experience competing against some of the best players across the state.” Stay tuned for more from Moore, whose recruiting process is not finished by any means. This post has been promoted to an article

In this week's Taking Sides, Sean and I debate Charlie Strong's comment about Texas not winning the national championship this year. What do you think - helpful or hurtful?

http://www.hornsports.com/articles/premium/crossfire-04232014-r4093

Crossfire - April 17, 2014 Edition

Read the April 9, 2014 edition of Crossfire HERE

Horn Sports members, welcome to the March 26th Crossfire with McPhaul update. We've got a ton to talk about in this release including the work going on at Spring Camp, recruiting updates in two major sports, and how recruiting and academics at UT under Coach Strong have taken flight. As always we'll catch up with FOB later on after all our member-questions are answered. Let's get going.... SPRING PRACTICE UPDATE We are not used to hearing the word physical when it comes to describing our practices in the past but, that is the first word out of everyone’s mouth that has witnessed the few practices we have had. Gone are the terms of finesse, thud technique, wrapping up and the alligator roll. This team is hitting with mean intentions. If there is one area of improvement we all will notice next year it should be our tackling. The defensive line has received the most accolades so far with the offensive line slightly trailing. This is to be somewhat expected because the defense is usually a head of the offense early in the spring. It is way too early to say the offense is struggling because they are once again, learning a new scheme. The bright spots on the offense have been at running back with Malcolm Brown and the several wide receivers that appear to be taking their game to the next level. The team is really feeding off of the new staff and how involved they are with every drill. The team has now accepted the fact that if they have come up short on technique or effort, they will be repeating the drill with a coach in their face and on their tail. Every report we have heard talks about how the players are really buying in to the new coaching staffs’ philosophy. It is very telling when all the players being interviewed are stating “this is what we needed”. The days of coddling are over. If you are injured, you spend practice in S&C Coach Pat Moore’s pit and that can be harder than a physical practice. SPRING PRACTICE INJURY UPDATE Offensive Tackle Kent Perkins went down with what appeared to be a serious knee injury and had to be carted off the field. The preliminary report is the injury is not as serious as most thought it was going to be. This is great news because OT is one position in which we lack depth. NEW COMMITMENT Houston Westfield Left Tackle Toby Weathersby committed Texas last weekend. Weathersby is 6’5 & 290 pounds and is rated as the second best offensive lineman in the state. This one caught the coaches by surprise because Weathersby was strongly considering OU, A&M and several other top programs. This was the second head-to-head recruitment that Coach Strong has won against Coach Sumlin so, slowly but surely, Texas is staring to gain some momentum. Keep in mind that Coach Wickline was not accustomed to receiving commitments with this level of potential/talent at his previous school (OSU). Weathersby gave his commitment to Wickline after practice last Saturday and Coach Wickline was so surprised, he made Weathersby repeat himself twice. When Coach Wickline and Weathersby informed Coach Strong of the commitment, Coach Strong showed his exuberance by jumping on Weathersby’s back. That’s Texas Strong. RECRUITING & ACADEMICS Usually these two terms are not mentioned hand-in-hand, but you better get used to it now. We have heard that one of Charlie Strong’s rules are that his players must attend every class, sit in one of the first two rows and introduce themselves to their professors. In speaking with someone that works on the academic side of the house for Bellmont we have been told that Coach Strong meets with the Academic Advisors on a weekly basis and in those meetings they cover every one of his players’ academic statuses. The Advisor went on to say how much they have enjoyed working with Coach Strong and in some ways believed they received a bad rap in the past when a kid flunked. The Advisor also said that the academic side of the house is not doing anything different than they have in the past as far as reporting the status. The only thing that has changed is the new staff is actually aware of an issue before it becomes a real problem due to the weekly meetings. There was more shared on this topic, but sometimes the past is better left in the past. Now, what does this have to do with recruiting? We are already hearing from parents of some of the state’s top recruits that feel like when speaking to other schools about academics, they receive nothing but “lip service” compared to what Texas is showing. TEXAS RELAYS Are scheduled for March 26th – 29th at Myers Stadium on the Texas campus. Come out and see the top High School & Collegiate track stars as they compete in the 87th Texas Relays. BASKETBALL RECRUITING As reported a handful of months ago by HornSports’ own “Shaunsters,” Texas is the favorite to land the No.2 rated player in the nation in 6’11 power forward Myles Turner. Joining Turner will be 6’6 small forward or shooting guard Jordan Barnett form Missouri. Barnett led his team to the Missouri 5A State Championship by pouring in 43 points from all over the court. Rumors are that UH 6’7 shooting guard Daniel House would be interested in transferring to Texas if UH head basketball coach James Dickey does not return. Dickey resigned last night, so this is one to keep an eye on. Rumor has it that former OU &n Indiana coach Kelvin Sampson is the front runner to replace Dickey. Sampson is currently the bench coach for the Houston Rockets. Q & A WITH HORNSPORTS MEMBERS Q) Who is the next recruit to commit? A) What I and everyone else are learning is; it’s a crap shoot guessing which recruit is going to pull the trigger next. I will go out on a limb and say Rockwall Heath Running Back Chris Warren is a Texas lock. Q) Any updated status on Jonathan Gray's recovery... Opinion on whether he will seek a med. redshirt, or try to play this year. A) From what I have heard they are leaning towards a red-shirt although Gray is holding out hope that he will be ready to play at some point next year. Q) How are verbal commits going to be handled under Strong? Seems we have 60 - 70 offers out. Does the recruit have to visit in person...bring parents? Whoever verbals first gets the spot? A) I myself have raised this question and this is what I have been told. We have all heard of the term soft commit. Well, we can now get used to hearing the term soft offer. Not all the recruits’ situations will be handled in the same manner. Some the recruits have been asked to participate in camps so the staff can get an up-close evaluation. Other recruits have been told that the staff will attend their games to evaluate them in action against competition. And last but, not least, others have been told that we will follow their academic standing & off-field issues. Q) What’s the word on Malik Jefferson and Daylon Mack? A) As you know, Jefferson and his parents made the trek to Austin to take in Texas’ first spring practice with pads. Malik came away very impressed with the way the practice was conducted. Being a linebacker and seeing how physical the Texas defense is going to be has to be very enticing for any defender. In addition to watching the practice, both Malik and his parents came away very impressed with Charlie Strong and his staff. It is safe to say Texas is back in the picture and in a big way. This one is going to be an epic battle between Strong & Sumlin. Q) I'm wondering about Daylon Mack as well. A) Until Texas get’s Mack on campus, there is nothing to report. For what it’s worth, I do believe will get Mack on campus and when we do, we will back in the thick of things with Mack. Q) Which linebackers are looking the best so far? A) It is still early but, I’m hearing that Steve Edmonds and Dalton Santos have both had their moments. Q) Also, was Harrison actually shot over spring break and that's the reason for his leg injury? Any more details on that? A) The word on the street is Desmond was grazed by a bullet at a spring break party in Cali. Q) To piggyback off of ChapalaHorn's question, is Dalton Santos an answer at the linebacker position and, how has he responded to Coach Strong's way? Same question regarding Jordan Hicks. A) Santos & Edmonds are going to be our answer at linebacker so, let’s hope they take to the new system well. I have been told that both Santos & Edmonds have embraced Strong’s way but, you never know until we go against another team. The news on Jordan is he seems to have recovered well from his injury but, has some rust to knock off. Q) Can Jaxon Shipley be an effective possession receiver? A) Absolutely. Shipley is the best receiver we have regardless of where he lines up. Q) How does Erik Huhn look as a Longhorn? Kid was a good player in high school. A) Huhn looks very impressive on the hoof but, I have not heard or seen enough of him to comment on where he is going to be on the depth chart. He injured his ACL in his high school senior season and redshirted last at Texas year due to a shoulder injury. Q) If you had to pick a leader on both sides of the ball, who are the players that other players follow? A) Cedric Reed on defense and Malcolm Brown on offense. Q) Has Mack Brown decided to give his endorsement of Charlie Strong to HS coaches across the state? A) Talk about a statement that took on a life of its own. This was not meant to be a shot at Brown. You very seldom hear an endorsement from a coach that was reassigned. I don’t think we will hear one until Mack is on TV and is asked about Charlie Strong. Q) Saw that nugget last week…..or are he and Sally still going through UT withdrawal? A) This is going to take some time. Q) BTW- I'm excited about CS and staff, and all about moving forward but couldn't resist to ask. "Physicality" seems to be the buzzword various blogs are running with this spring’s practices. I want to feel good but I've been disappointed by similar claims the last three spring practices under Mack. I haven’t been motivated to go to a Spring Game since 2009, so how can I believe again and feel the desire to go back to a Spring Game? A) You owe it to yourself to let the past go. There is a new Sheriff in town and even if our record does not indicate improvement, you will indubitably recognize that this is a different team. Concerning the spring game, MBHORNSFAN is in charge of the tailgate party and I have heard that he hosts one helluva tailgate on campus. My understanding is we are going to have some special guests in attendance. Come out and meet all of us in person! 1. just how BIG is this proposed state "tour" that "coach strong" is preparing to be participating in? obviously, this is indeed a great idea by all accounts... since it shall allow for new and prospective "fans" as per strategic areas throughout the state of texas, to "come and get to view up close and meet our new head coach" per se. what is your most honest view regarding this "tour" darrell? could this prospective "tour" be also designed to build a bit of "swagger" surrounding our new head coach in lieu of "sumlin" as well as "bob stoops" already highly recognized images? A) I remember attending Mack Brown’s tour sixteen years ago. The tours are designed to be an up-close introduction to the new staff and rouse some excitement amongst the fans and alumni. I’ll be hitting several of Coach’s stops on this circuit too. 2. Darrell, would it be possible to acquire the "view" as per our "friend of bevo" upon what he really thinks of this forthcoming "tour" featuring our new head coach "strong"? i would really enjoy viewing his "pros vs cons" regarding this prospective "tour". A) There are no cons, only pro’s. Every new head coach at a flagship university plans a tour like this. Q) What were the reactions from the prospects on hand for the full pads practice this past weekend? A) Every prospect ranted & raved about how physical the practices were. They also mentioned how impressed they were with the coaches’ participation. Q) Which team from the ACC inquired about joining the Big 12? A) Louisville. Louisville came up one vote short (OU) when we spoke to them last time. OU wanted WVU Q) What's the real story with Ronald Jones and UT's recruitment of him? A) It’s early and other schools have shown Jones more attention than we have. Q) Is Rick Barnes in a "must win big or you're gone" situation next year? A) I seriously doubt that Patterson has had that talk with Barnes at this time. Q) If so, does Patterson already have names on tap for a new basketball coach? A) Every AD has a list and you can bet Patterson has a good one. Q) From Shaggy: Ronald Jones put out his top 6 and we aren't in it. Supposedly we sent him a letter addressed to "Roland Jones" and he wasn't too happy about it. A) I have not heard that. With as many as letters as we send out, mistakes are bound to happen. Q) I heard we are moving up on Ronald Jones’ list maybe even to number one. What changed? Is there truth to this? He reminds me of Jamal Charles a lot. A) We moved up because we finally offered. He reminds some of J. Charles but, I’m not going to be so quick to give him this tag. I don’t think most realize how strong Charles was/is. Q) If the cheating is exposed on A&M, would the NCCA do anything or be forced to do anything if there is evidence they can't be pushed aside. A) The NCAA let the Manziel autograph evidence be pushed aside. Until I see it, I have little or no faith when it comes to the NCAA enforcing rules unless it comes against a school like Texas A&M Kingsville. INSIDERS? I think this is important to mention. The term “insider” is way over used & tremendously overrated. For those of you that have followed & corresponded with me throughout the years have always heard me say that I am not an “insider”. To me, an “insider” is someone that either works for The University in some capacity or participates in a sport for the university. For various reasons these sources cannot be revealed and it is silly to even ask who the source is. The Friend of Bevo information can come from a former coach, trainer, manager, BMD or someone that has a close relationship with someone in the program. We at Hornsports serve as a “conduit” to our members with the information we receive. With today’s thirst of information pertaining to your favorite team, HornSports is fortunate to have these sources that take the time out of their schedules to share what we feel is relevant information with us. RUMORS CONCERNING HORNSPORTS' GROWTH There are several rumors circulating about the future of Hornsports and what direction we are taking? We are always looking for ways to serve a better product to our membership. HornSports is like your neighborhood – you can always borrow an egg or a cup of sugar (or beer) from us. Recently we added Coleman Feely a former Div. 1 offensive lineman from UNT that was a part of Todd Dodge’s first recruiting class. Coleman also does color commentary for The Mean Green Network. Coleman hosts the HornSports “Roundtable Podcast with Feeley and McPhaul” every Tuesday night in addition to contributing articles on the site. If you have not had the pleasure of listening to the Roundtable, do yourself a favor and catch the next one. Coleman offers a player’s perspective to the podcast that is unique and unmatched. Marian Hinton has recently joined Hornsports as a staff writer. Many of us recognize Marian by her moniker name of hooked’76. Marion has written for Rant Sports for several years and has been a long time favorite on the message boards. Mike Roach is another talented staff writer that is relatively new and has posted some fantastic articles and recruiting updates. Hornsports is lucky to have the Roach on-board. UPDATE: Hornsports has recently placed an ad with the UT Journalism School for an intern to cover on-campus recruiting and a host of other duties. These new additions along with Johhny Whisenant, Chris Flanagan and Mike Barnes’ Orange Report podcast are just a few ways Hornsports intends to serve a better product to our membership. Hold on to your hat because to best is yet to come. A CONVERSATION WITH FRIEND OF BEVO McPhaul: Boy, you want to talk about leaving me hanging on the last phone call. What have you heard about expansion? FOB: I have been told that countrywide realignment is in a holding pattern as long as the Maryland situation has not been resolved. If it goes Maryland’s way, the gates will swing open and, more importantly, that includes the Big 12 - for additions and subtractions. I would really love to know what the subtractions meant? There are two players out there that covet the Big 12 ($), or so my guy has been told. One, of course, is in the ACC and it is the biggest of the players there. Clemson was not the school. I was also told to keep an eye on Louisville - who was an OU vote away from being in the Big 12 instead of WVU. That would be ironic, wouldn't it? McPhaul: Okay, keep your ear to the ground and keep us all informed. FOB: Will do. McPhaul: The other bombshell you dropped on us was pertaining to Texas A&M and recruiting allegations. Can you elaborate more on this? FOB: As far as the recruiting infractions committee is concerned, some information regarding "insurance policies" has come to light. No, I was not told what that meant other than (recruits name) & family may be involved. This is really sensitive and explosive info and may need a lid kept on it. We'll have to be patient and see what develops from this. McPhaul: Ah, I want to ask you more about this but, I will refrain for now. FOB: Be patient. McPhaul: What were your thoughts on our basketball team’s performance in Milwaukee? FOB: I was happy we did not let the ASU game slip away from us. Getting out of the first round was a very nice step in the right direction. This will give the team something to build off of. McPhaul: The game against Michigan was not pretty. FOB: No it wasn’t but, what can you do when a team hits fourteen three pointers off of you? Michigan knew we were weak in defending the outside shot and they exploited it every chance they got. McPhaul: I was happy to see Texas make somewhat of a run of it in the second half. FOB: Just like the first game against ASU, once Barnes sat Felix, the team went on a run. If you care to go back and watch the game again you will see Michigan made a concentrated effort isolating anyone Felix was guarding. McPhaul: No, I saw enough not to want to watch it again. FOB: When Felix is on, he can be a spark but he is too streaky on offense and is a liability on defense. If this team is to go any further next year, they have to have someone step up and take minutes away from Felix. McPhaul: With everyone returning next year and the addition of Myles Turner, this team should go further than the second round. FOB: So should have Duke, so I’m not counting chickens before they hatch. I know Turner is receiving all the hype and rightfully so, but don’t overlook Jordan Barnett. That kid hit 43 points in the Mizzou 5A State Championship game and I can see him receiving at least 10 minutes a game his freshman year. McPhaul: Will Barnes be under heavier pressure to win more next year? FOB: From a fans perspective he will but I’m not sure Patterson will make that move if we falter. I am also not implying Patterson would not. or the first time, I can see Texas being the B12 pre-season favorite. McPhaul: I can only hope this team responds to being a favorite like we did the underdog this year. FOB: We shall see. McPhaul: I know you mentioned to me that you had not heard anything about being excluded from practice, but I’m reading on other sites that all the BMD’s have been told to stay away. FOB: Look, Charlie has requested a little room to work with this year. Charlie did not come off as abrasive or anything like that. You have to keep in mind that some guys thought it was their right to be down there on the field talking to Mack the whole practice while others would sit in the stands and would mingle amongst ourselves. Charlie just wants to assure that the old culture does not pick up where it left off. McPhaul: That’s understandable. FOB: I remember Coach Muschamp shaking his head and muttering out loud that this is not suppose to be some “GD social event,” it’s suppose to be work time. McPhaul: Any news on attrition? FOB: Unfortunately there are a couple of potential starters that are still straddling the fence. There are also a couple of guys that are going to have to finish up strong academically and attend summer school if they want to be eligible next fall. McPhaul: Can’t name any names? FOB: I can but, I won’t. I will say that these are positions of need. The ball’s in the kids court. FOB: I got a question for you. McPhaul: What’s that? FOB: You told me that there was going to be some big announcement on your site this week, did I miss it. McPhaul: (Nervous chuckle) No sir, it has been delayed but, only for a couple of days. FOB: Ok, I will keep looking. I gotta run. McPhaul: I appreciate ya and thanks.

Spring camp started this week under the Charlie Strong regime, the Longhorns begin play tomorrow evening in the first round of the NCAA tournament against Arizona State and Crossfire is here..... ATTRITION UPDATES ON THE 40 ACRES WR Bryant Jackson will receive a medical hardship due to nagging foot injury and retire from football. LB Aaron Benson will graduate in May and has elected to forgo his senior year. OL Garret Greenlea was never able to get healthy after suffering a knee injury has also decided to retire from football. CROSSFIRE Q&A Q) What is the latest at Bellmont? A) Maybe I’m not as smart as you think I am but, that is kind of a vague question. Q) Is Patterson feared? A) Feared would be the wrong term to use. Steve Patterson is well respected and the staff is adapting to his style. I believe we are lucky to have him. Q) What is the back story on player’s attitudes about living on campus? A) At first they were not happy about it but, they are now starting to recognize the benefits of bonding and being a close team. Q) What coach do you think will have the biggest impact on their position group and in what ways? A) I would usually have some sort of opinion on a topic like this but; I’m really not sure until we get a few practices under our belt. I’m interested in seeing what Coach Rump does with the talent at his disposal. Q) Was Scott's dismissal from the team one of many missteps? A) Not that I’m aware of. Scott was blowing it up in the off season strength & conditioning program. Q) Does Charlie Strong have a zero tolerance policy? A) No. Coach Strong has been very clear about the rules and those that have broken them have been dealt with accordingly. Q) Speaking of that, do you believe that Coach Strong has a dossier of all players who have been disciplined for breaking rules in the past? If so, have they been put on notice? A) Of course he does. Coach Strong & staff have made it a point to get to know each player individually. Yes, Coach Strong has been very clear with each team member on where they stand in the program. Some of those players have responded in a very positive manner. Q) How are the players responding to the recent dismissals? A) The Moss dismissal did not surprise anyone. Moss was the team “party” guy. If the team did not understand that Strong was serious, they do now. Q) Odds of UT landing Wittek? A) The fact that Wittek is going to visit Texas again tells us we are very much in the running. I would say 50/50 right now. Q) From the Horns Digest article, all four HS coaches liked Coach Strong, but ranked in-state recruiting as ATM, Baylor, and UT (smh at Baylor). What is more important to "leapfrog" Baylor...relationships, or winning? A) Can you believe we are even having this conversation? The horse is winning and the cart is the relationships. Q) Was Chambers retained because he was a former HS coach? A) First and foremost Coach Chambers was retained because he and Coach Strong had the right chemistry. Second of all Coach Chambers has been instrumental in introducing the new Texas staff to the Texas High School coaches. Q) Odds of Wittek beating out a healthy Ash? A) I watched two USC games last year when Wittek started and in my opinion a healthy Ash is a better QB. With that said, Ash’s ability to improvise with his legs separated the two. Q) What does a full athletic scholarship cover? A) One year of education, books, lodging, meals. Do not underestimate the personalized tutoring the kids receive from the support staff when they seek it. That leaves cloths and entertainment for the kid to cover. Q) What is your take on pay-for-play? A) We are now delaying the inevitable. The university Presidents are not going to be able to table this topic much longer. It's coming. Q) Is there a Hornsports app or should I be using tapatalk? A) For the time being Tapatalk is the best way to catch HornSports on mobile devices. We have a new platform being released soon which will give the site a fresh look with new features. Q) During a conversation with a friend (he is not a longhorn) he said that 50% off our fans were just t-shirt fans. What's your take on his assumption? A) You should take that as a compliment. What he is really telling you is that Texas is a very popular team to follow whether you attended Texas or not. Texas is a national brand and attracts fans from all over the world. As you have heard, Patterson wants to exploit the international markets when the opportunity arises. You should also tell your friend that the 50/50 assumption is in line with any other flagship state university fan base if they are worth a damn. Q) Daje's role on this team, position, impact? A) The staff is doing everything they can to enable Daje to have a huge impact. Daje has to stay consistent and fly right. Q) Steam is picking up with attention on the UTvs$Atm$ rivalry. Has Patterson been approached about a reunion and/or what are the chances of this actually being renewed? A) As long as the two schools move into two directions on how they conduct their recruiting, I don’t see it happening anytime soon. Q) Next commit? A couple more to watch? A) I’m going to gamble on Wittek for the next commitment. 2016 running back Kameron Martin has stated that he would jump all over a Texas offer. Rockwell Heath LB/S DeShawn Elliot is rumored to be selecting his destination soon (edit: Elliott committed to UT last night). Q) Greetings darrell, 1. are there any current "rumblings" regarding the proposed "two story practice facility"? as you may attest, just a month or so ago... this was a particular hot item as per discussions upon many "longhorn nation" websites. could there be a current status? or is this prospective edifice, now being considered upon alignment as per the expansion of "dkr"? A) I have not heard one word about a new practice facility expect for Strong stating we are good to go with what we have now. Q) you may or may not have a direct answer as per this particular query... therefore, a "guesstimate" shall indeed suffice. do you really believe that "atm" shall have there new football palace open for business at the start of the 2014 gridiron season as they are ambiguously vs ambitiously proposing? even the "walking dead corpses" may see that there is indeed a monumental task of on hand construction work currently underway, upon their "college station" work zone. just how on earth could they possibly finish in time as per this season? A) I have no earthly idea. I have not followed the project close enough to comment on it. Q) We of course want Myles Turner, but what is the word on Barnett? He sounds like a solid prospect and has a 4* rating. Thought I heard his dad was an NBA guy? A) Barnett is one hell of an Athlete with a decent outside shot. Barnett’s most impressive attribute is his court IQ and his unselfishness. Minutes are going to be tight next year but, look for Barnett to average around 10 minutes a game his first year. I need to do some homework because I did not know his dad played in the NBA. Q) With the spring season starting, when do you think we hear of more attrition and how many do you now guess the number is? A) I have stated in the past that the over under was around 8 and at this time, I will stick to it. Q) Do we need attrition to avoid too many scholarship players for next season? That's what I thought was stated previously but not sure. A) My understanding is we need to trim down approximately four more to get to 85. I look for some medical hardships to be taken by at least two players after spring ball. Q) How are the Texas coaches receiving the new staff and coach Strong? It sounds like the out of state kids like Strong but the in state kids have not warmed up to him yet. I wondered if it is because their high school coaches are not quite sold on Strong yet? A) The High School coaches & recruit that are not familiar with Coach Strong are taking a wait and see approach. Some of these High School coaches are close to Mack and Mack has not yet given Coach Strong an endorsement. CONVERSATION WITH FRIEND OF BEVO Me: Hey my man, how is it going? FOB: Just got back from the Disch and I’m pretty disgusted. We have not won a B12 series since 2012. I really can’t wrap my head around that. Me: Well, it just the first series this year. Shouldn’t we tap the brakes on our discontent? I mean we did improve our out of conference play this year. FOB: Dammit Darrell, don’t try and polish the turd we laid this past weekend. Are you listening to me? We have not won a B12 series since 2012. What part that is ever acceptable at Texas? Me: Many Horn Sports members keep asking if this is Augie’s swan song? FOB: I can’t imagine changes won’t be forthcoming if we don’t get back to Omaha. Augie is prideful and understands the expectations surrounding the program. I foresee Augie stepping away if we don’t take our rightful spot in Omaha. With the pitching staff this team has, it would a travesty to stay home for the third year in a row. Me: Switching gears on you; what did you think about our draw in the tournament? FOB: We sure picked a fine time to tank. I mean we lost every road game on the back of our schedule. Our saving grace is ASU has also sputtered its way into the tournament. I think we beat them but, keep in mind, ASU starts three seniors so and that may help them some. Me: Did you check out the rest of the midwest draw? FOB: I did and it sure looked like the toughest region. Texas was not done any favors. It makes me sick to my stomach to see Baylor get a 6th seed when we beat them 2 out of 3 with one of those wins coming on their court. Me: Are you ready for spring ball? FOB: Football cannot get here soon enough. Me: Are you going to be allowed take in some practices and give our members some insight on the team? FOB: I certainly plan on it. I, nor anyone else I know has not been informed we cannot attend practice. Me: I know you said you had to cut it short today but, our members have been asking me for some juicy news. You got anything? FOB: The B12 has received an interesting inquiry from an ACC school and the word is; Patterson is going to do everything in his power to improve the B12 standing in college football. Me: What else you got? FOB: Saddle up because Texas is not going to sit idle while A&M continues to cheat. A large case of illegal recruiting is building against A&M. I will let you know when it gets closer to hitting the fan and it will. TEXAS means business. Me: Ok, I know you are in a hurry but, I expect more info on both those topics next week. FOB: We will see. Goodbye

STEVE PATTERSON'S EMAIL ON THE DKR SOUTH ENDZONE EXPANSION Many of you have been asking about the expansion of the south endzone. Below is a statement relased by Texas AD Steve Patterson: As we continue to plan for the future of UT Athletics and work to provide a superior gameday experience for all our fans and stakeholders, we have begun the initial stage of studying a potential stadium project to complete the south end of Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The project is conceptual at this point. Any further planning will depend on a variety of factors to be studied over the next several months. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has been retained to assist UT Athletics in evaluating elements of the potential project, including the addition of new premium seating and additional club areas. As part of their research, PwC will be engaging with Longhorn Foundation members through a survey and interview process to collect input related to potential new seating options and naming rights opportunities for Texas Football. We genuinely appreciate the many ways in which you support UT Athletics. Thank you for your participation during this process. Hook 'em, Horns! Steve Patterson Men's Athletics Director COACHES ON THE MOVE Former defensive back coach Duane Akina has agreed in terms with Stanford and will be joining David Shaw's staff in Palo Alto. That leaves Running Backs Coach Larry Porter and Wide Receivers Coach Darrell Wyatt as the only two coaches that have not found a landing spot as of now. Expect them to be picked up somewhere sooner rather than later... CROSSFIRE Q & A Q) Do we get Turner? A) If I was a betting man, I would bet on Texas. Texas gets the last visit so, that bodes well for us. Q) Is this Augie's last year? A) It has been discussed but, I don’t think Augie has made a final decision. Q) What the devil is going on a Texas A&M with all the arrest? A) When boosters are running the program and not the head coach, there is little or not accountability. Q) How do you think the Texas BB Team is going to do in the Big 12 Tourney and the Nat playoffs (MARCH MADNESS) A) Don’t get me to lying. I can no longer predict which Texas team is going to show? Q) Why can't we get the real time broadcast of the games (Basketball/baseball/football) while in the stadiums, with no time delay? Seems like we have grown up with watching sports on TV and it seem that it would add to the fun and knowledge of what is going on in the game. A) Interesting question and one I don’t have an answer for. Let me see what I can find out and I will share in next week's Crossfire. Q) Still most curious about attrition. How many? And who are the probables? A) I placed the over under at 8 but, could me more when the spring football wraps up. Some kids have been notified that their services will not be needed for spring practices so; we should start hearing a few names once spring football starts. Some other kids that are on the bubble will be allowed to participate in spring ball and will announce their intentions to transfer after the orange & white game. It is better that I don’t speculate on the names. Q) Since we are into a somewhat quiet period, I think it would be interesting to do a Crossfire conversation with a couple of high school coaches to hear what they think of the program, their comments on who they thought would get the UT job and what they think of Coach Strong so far (anonymously, of course). A) Alright, let me see if I can get Coach Todd Dodge of Marble Falls and another former Texas player that is now coaching HS ball. Q) One thing I am wondering is what the coaches are doing on a daily basis now. A) Preparing for the spring practices. Q) What gets the attention of the position coaches and the head coach after signing day and before spring practice? A) Laying the ground work for the next recruiting class and preparing for the junior days. Q) Who is the favorite to win the Big 12 next year and why? Who is the dark horse? Who will win "Coach of the year"? A) At this time I’m going to say that OU, Baylor and Texas all have a shot at the Big12 title next year. A) My dark horse would be any team Bill Snyder coaches so, that would be KSU. A) Charlie Strong or Kliff Kingsbury. Q) What do you make of William Wilkerson's report on the tops athletes in the state and how they felt about Texas this year? A) It is no secret that Texas is playing catch up. Let Charlie get a season under his belt and I beat Texas will once again be the choice program in the state. Q) Thoughts on Heard going to spend some time this spring break with the QB guru George Whitfield ? A) It tells me that Heard is serious about honing his craft. It is refreshing to see a kid forgo the spring break parties his senior year to prepare himself for the next level. Q) Following "Hell Week", which players have shown the most improvement and which players stood out to the coaches/staff? A) Both QB’s Ash & Swoopes made some noise. It’s too bad Leroy Scott broke team rules because he was really impressing the coaching staff. All the running backs, Brown, Bergeron, Gray and Johnson have been stellar in the offseason. Texas is stacked at the running back position. Another area of team strength is going to be the defensive line. Brown & Reed have taken on a leadership and the young pups like S. Davis & B. Cottrell should give Texas some depth we have not had recently. Q) We have "Cameron Crazies" and "Erwin Lazies"! What are the thoughts for the new/perspective basketball arena as to a much greater home court advantage and moving the "blue hairs" (I am one.) up and the students’ courtside (1st 10 rows) around the arena? A) I’m hearing the arena will be more intimate as far as the seating goes so, that alone should benefit for home games. Moving the “blue hairs” is going to tricky. Keep in mind these “blue hairs” is where the majority of the season tickets are sold. Q) What are your predictions for our defense this fall? YPG, PPG, & ranking in the Big 12 & nationally? A) Good Gravy I was hoping to get to see them perform this spring before I was asked this question. I will go out on a limb and predict that Texas will have the top ranked defense in the B12 this year. Q) Who would be possible candidates to replace Augie if he was to not return next season? A) Those close to the program believe Texas pitching coach Skip Johnson is going to inherit the job once Augie decides to step down. Q) Wayne Graham, Rice, has wanted the UT job since he was the HC at San Jacinto JC. He was really miffed when the UT job was given to Augie because Graham campaigned hard for it. He is an excellent BB coach and has won where ever he has been - however, he must be getting close to 75 by now. His chances at UT are done. A) Coach Graham would have been an excellent selection. At 75, you got to believe that Coach Graham will retire at Rice. Q) Is Geoff Ketchum Mr. Taylor Duck? A) No comment. Mr. Taylor Duck has been banned on HornSports. Q) You have always had quite the following on Orangebloods, why don’t you post there anymore? A) I have been banned on Orangebloods. Q) Who are your favorite Longhorn writers/reporters? A) Chip Brown, Sean Adams, Scipio and Jesus Shuttlesworth are always a great read. Honorable mentions would go to Eric Nahlin, Jason Suchomel and Jeff Howe when it comes to recruiting news and updates. Q) Will the media be allowed to attend and report on spring football? A) Emails have been sent to the parents of the football team that practices will be closed so, I doubt they are going to let the media attend. Friends of Bevo will still be able to attend some practices so; Hornsports should receive some informative reports. Q) Will Charlie Strong have a weekly show on LHN like Mack did? Will LHN do similar programming now that Mack is gone? A) Yes he will. As a matter of fact, I can see Charlie Strong and Steve Patterson taking the LHN to the next level. Q) Why is it taking till the middle of the summer to get The Longhorn Network on Dish when all they need to do is flip a switch? A) I don’t think all the particulars on how they are going to package the LHN have been decided at Dish? Q) Who are the cant miss prospects in the 2015 class? A) Tagging anyone as a can’t miss is dangerous these days. You really know how the kids are going to respond once they get on campus. Presently Texas does not have a 2015 commit that I would feel comfortable labeling as a cant’ miss prospect. Q) Will the quarterback position battle be an open one or is there already a favorite? A) The whole team has bought into that every position is open for battle. David Ash is the odds on in favorite but, every second teamer is just one play away from being the starter. I believe our QB depth chart will look like this: Ash, Wittek, Swoopes & Heard. Granted that Wittek ends up at Texas. Q) How is Gray progressing from his achilles injury? A) Johnathan is ahead of schedule. Texas is loaded at RB so, there is absolutely no reason to rush him back. Selfishly I hope he redshirts so, we can have him on campus a few more years. Q) First, just a suggestion: It is not a good experience when we respond to your question request an get no-response. My thoughts if you could list the question with a simple response: we acknowledge your question but cannot answer at this time because..... We will or won't keep it on file. Of the 31 players who sustained an Achilles tendon rupture, 21 (64%) returned to play in the NFL at an average of 11 months after injury. In the three seasons following their return, those 21 players saw significant decreases in games played and power ratings compared to the three seasons preceding the injury. A) Dually noted and I’m sorry that happened. Q) Do we know of any quality RBs that have rehabed a torn Achilles and returned to dominance? I can't think of any off hand, only those with ACLs. Mirroring the above question regarding J Gray. A) Of the 31 NFL players who sustained an Achilles tendon rupture, 21 (64%) returned to play in the NFL at an average of 11 months after injury. In the three seasons following their return, those 21 players saw significant decreases in games played and power ratings compared to the three seasons preceding the injury. None of these players were running backs. Furthermore, in the reviewed 21 NFL skill players who returned to play, there were significant decreases in games played per season (11.67 games per year pre-injury versus 6.17 games per year post injury) when averaged over the three seasons before the injury and the three seasons after the injury.3 There were also decreases averaging nearly 50% in power ratings of the returning players for the three seasons after the injury compared to the three seasons before the injury. These data indicate that even in players able to return to their former level of play, the quality of play may suffer permanently. Q) 1. ok darryl, let's be frank here... am i the only one that seems to think that there is a small but yet very ominous cloud, suddenly hanging over the "erwin center"? i mean think about it... we all certainly would want to send coach barnes as many accolades as possible, as per this momentous season... but let's face it, this season is really no better than the last. (not really). therefore, how dare the "myles turner" camp present a subtle threat (please make certain that "barnes" is back next season or else) that shall in the very least... cause a bit of consternation amongst us fans. soooooo, my question is... is it an absolute guarantee that "myles turner" shall grace the "40 acres" upon next season? aaaaaaand, should he decide to grace the illustrious confines of lawrence kansas... what on earth shall we do as per the "big Vii" coach of the year "rick barnes"... head off into another season upon a wing and a prayer? will "patterson" really stand for such "in your face ambiguity" in regards to the current status as per his head basketball coach? an "ominous cloud" indeed! A) Monarch, my man. I spell my name the same way Darrell Royal spelled his. I don’t think Turner camp was threatening us. The Turners have every right in seeking the stability of the coaching staff at the schools they are considering. Keep in mind that basketball coaches actually coach in practice opposed to head football coaches that oversee practices. Barnes has more one on one interaction with his players in one week than Coach Brown had all year. No matter how you look at Barnes, you can’t release a coach that won the Coach of the Year award in his conference. Barnes was put on notice before the season started and in my opinion, responded accordingly. Q) Any knowledge on how the SEC cheats in the large cash deals? A) Read up on how Auburn pulled it off with Cam Newton or how LSU pulled it off with Claiborne. Q) What did Leroy Scott do? A) Broke team rule #420. Q) And what are his chances to stay on the team? A) I’m not sure but, the kid had an outstanding offseason. Q) What is Augie doing to improve the run production? Totally impressed with the fielding and pitching. A) I don’t think it is so much of what Augie is doing but, the kids are responding in close games a lot better than they did last year. Our pitching has been NAILS. Q) True or False: Perry's pain I'm the ass regent Wallace Hall's kid rejected by UT admissions? A) True and the kid had a very decent private school transcript. The kid will probably end up at Harvard. Q) What will our base defensive alignment b... 4-3, 5-0 or 3-4? A) From what I have been told, the staff is going to look at the 4-3 & 3-3 and see what best fits the personnel. I think we will see plenty of both. CONVERSATION WITH FRIEND OF BEVO Me: How are you? FOB: Been busy but, all is well. Me: Any thoughts on “Hell Week”? FOB: Boy they pushed the hell out of those kids and credit the kids for responding the way they did. Me: So, no one threw the towel in? FOB: You had some kids that did not finish drills but, no one threw a tantrum and walked off. Me: I told our members that the over under on the attrition was around eight. Do you think that is correct? FOB: I would say that is in the ball park. Like I mentioned before, the staff has meet with those they don’t think they have a chance to see the field and some of those kids responded well in the workouts. Me: So are you saying that some of those kids are going to be allowed to stay on the team? FOB: There is that possibility that some of the kids might have reserved the right to retain their scholarship but, they may become frustrated with the lack of reps they receive in spring ball. Although this staff challenged the team in a manner they have never been challenged before, they are pleased with the effort they received. Me: Are they going to challenge them in spring practices too? FOB: Since we are installing a new offense & defense, the team is going be challenged in the classroom so, they can maximize the practice time on the field. In other words, the staff is going to be able to recognize those that are not retaining the playbook very quickly and their reps will be limited until they get it down. Me: Is the staff excited about the talent at their disposal? FOB: Darrell, they are. They really believe they will compete in every game they play and as I have said before, this staff is not conceding s%^t. Me: Is this going to be a very physical spring? FOB: It certainly is. The staff is well aware of the tackling issues this team has had and this one area the coaches believe is going to improve dramatically. Me: Switching topics on you. What do you think about Rick bringing home the B12 coach of the year award? FOB: As you know, before this season Rick had a big ole bulls- eye on his back but, Rick delivered this year. Rick deserved the award. I just hope Rick & can get this team out of the first or second round this year. The talent is there. Hopefully we will get some good match ups. Me: I’m hearing from some very good sources that Myles Turner is a lock for Texas? FOB: Texas is sitting in the catbirds seat right now. Let’s hope we don’t screw this one up like we did with Julius Randle. Me: What seed do you think we land? FOB: 5th thru 7th seed. I tell you what; we have the best chance to win the B12 tourney than we have in a very long time. Me: I feel the same way since Kansas’ big man is out for two weeks. FOB: That can’t hurt but, remember Ridley ate his lunch in Austin. Me: Everyone keeps asking me if this is Augie’s last year? FOB: I get that question all the time too. I’m being told that a decision has not been made one way or the other. If Augie does well this year, it will be his choice. The thing about Augie is he will be ready to step down if he can’t deliver some type of hardware this year. It’s not going to be like the Mack Brown saga where we have to force him into retirement. Me: Any news on Bev Kearney? FOB: She does not have a prayer. There will be no settlement. Me: That’s all I got now. I am going to see you at the spring game. FOB: Yes, I will stop by your tailgate and say hello but, I can’t stay long. Me: That’s ok, I will holler at you next week. Thanks again for the time. FOB: My pleasure Darrell.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS PRO DAY & SPRING-GAME ACTIVITIES UT's Pro Day has been scheduled for March 26th. The Spring game is scheduled for April 19th at 1:00 Stay tuned for Tailgate Information related to the Spring game! MAX WITTEK UPDATE Former USC QB Max Wittek visited Hawaii last weekend and is said to have enjoyed the visit. Wittek is not close to a decision and he may still take visits to Louisville and TCU. We assume Virginia Tech is no longer an option since former Lake Travis and Texas Tech QB Michael Brewer announced he will transferring to VT. MARCH 1st JUNIOR DAY VISITORS Offensive QB Quinten Dormady, Boerne High (Boerne, TX) QB Jaylon Henderson, Kingwood Park (Humble, TX) QB/ATH, JW Ketchum, Fort Bend Marshall (Missouri City, TX) RB Kirk Johnson, Valley Christian (San Jose, CA) Has Texas offer RB DeUnte Chatman, Summer Creek (Humble, TX) RB Jatory Sparks-Brown, DeSoto (DeSoto, TX) WR/ATH Billy McCrary, Rouse (Leander, TX) WR Jaelan Austin, South Grand Prairie (Grand Prairie, TX) WR Jalen Guyton, Allen (Allen, TX) WR James Proche, Prime Prep (Dallas, TX) OL Conner Dyer, Horn (Mesquite, TX) OL Isaiah Edwards, Cinco Ranch (Katy, TX) OL Tyler Higby, The Kincaid School (Houston, TX) Defensive LB Diamon Cannon, Shoemaker (Killeen, TX) LB Riley Garner, A&M Consolidated (College Station, TX DE Breylin Mitchell, Round Rock High (Round Rock, TX) DE Tyrell Thompson, Copperas Cove, TX DT Derek Brown, Katy High (Katy, TX) DT Darrion Daniels, Bishop Dunne (Dallas, TX) DT Bryce English, DeSoto (DeSoto, TX) DT/DE Kingsley KeKe, George Ranch (Rosenberg, TX) S Kahlil Haughton, Midway (Waco, TX) 2016 Class QB Brennan Wooten, Marble Falls (Marble Falls, TX) WR Collin Johnson, Valley Christian (San Jose, CA) Texas Has Offered DT Kendell Jones, Shoemaker (Killeen, TX) Texas Has Offered CB Malik Antoine, University Lab (Baton Rouge, LA) CB Jared Mayden, Sachse (Sachse, TX) Texas Has Offered ****Junior Day Offers**** Kendell Jones - Defensive Tackle - Shoemaker HS in Killeen, Texas Jared Mayden – Defensive Back – Sachse, Texas Kirk Johnson - - Running Back - San Jose Valley Christian. Colin Johnson – Wide Receiver - San Jose Valley Christian. ************************** CROSSFIRE Q&A Q) Who do you see as our starting tight end this fall & how will they be used in our passing offense? A) Louisville ran a double tight end set and I believe we will see it at Texas too. Louisville’s 1st string tight end caught 36 passes last year and the 2nd teamer caught 18 passes, so the you can bet we are going to see more use from the tight end position. Other TE tidbits: Greg Daniles will be primarily a blocking tight end and has shown decent receiving skills Geoff Swaim will used in multiple sets as a blocker and receiver. Blake Whiteley will be used as a receiving tight end until he can add some seize. MJ McFarland is probably the most intimidating tight end but, has not shown the consistency in the blocking game to stay on the field. McFarland is a transfer candidate. Q) First, who thinks it is a priority to recover our relationship with MBTF (I never had any problem with Mrs. Brown)? A) I don’t anyone is thinking it’s a priority. It was just a question. Second, why would they not be ready? A) They were removed from office and they were not ready to leave. They both believe they were done wrong by Texas because they did not get to leave on their own terms. Sally has given all of her Texas clothing a way to a former staff member. There are hurt feelings that only time can heal. Q) Third, why the sudden concerns about how people feel toward MBTF? People have their opinions about how things went down. If you want to change those opinions then give us substantive evidence as to why anybody that is not supportive of how MBTF conducted himself should reconsider. I am not asking for a recap of his accomplishments at Texas. I know them already. A) I honestly have no concern on how people feel towards Mack Brown. You can’t change anyone’s opinion on Mack Brown. There are reasons why people like Mack Brown and there are reasons others dislike him. It is futile trying to convert either side. Both sides have their reasoning. Q) Why should I give MBTF a break and why do you care? A) I have never asked you to give Mack a break. I have moved on and have found it liberating to let the past go and concentrate on the new regime. Q) My same question from last week. Give us some info on the possibility of LHN being picked up by Directv or Dish (my only two options) by the time football season rolls around or is that even on Patterson's to-do list right now. A) It is a priority for Patterson, IMG and ESPN to get the LHN on one of your two options. At this time I don’t what the possibilities are. I guess we just found out how high of a priority it was. The LHN has now been inked by Dish Network. I would look for Directv to follow suit. ESPN packaging the LHN with the SEC Network no doubt assisted the LHN in getting this deal done. Q) Who do you anticipate leaving the football program? Word is we need to free up 8 slots to reach scholarship limit of 85. A) The staff has met with those that are better served playing football somewhere else. 8 would be a safe number to assume since some of kids are sitting on the fence. We are already down two with Scott & Moss being dismissed so, 6 more is well within reach. The problem is Texas has some very good talent sitting on the fence. The staff has been very supportive but some kids have not developed the discipline needed in order to play under the new regime. In the next few weeks, we all will have a more lucid picture of who is onboard going into spring ball. Q) I've heard from various mathematical sources that Pie R squared. In my experience, pies are usually round. Can you please clear this conflict up for me? Squared or Round? A) I would let the various mathematical sources that you have heard from clear this up for you & quit picking on me Q) With the SEC Network going live in August, does that help or hurt the LHN chances of being picked up by the various carriers? A) If the carrier is offering the LHN in the same package that carries the SEC Network, then it increases our chances to be picked up or included by various carriers. Q) Why all the love for ex-USC QB Max Wittek? If he couldn't win the job at USC, why does anyone think he has a chance here? A) The out of town girl is always looked upon as glamorous. I’m going to tell you right now, it is a position of need. If Ash goes down, we could be in a world of hurt. Q) Confirm that the chances that we change the design of our uniforms, even for one game is zip, nunca, nada. A) That is the one question I would have for Patterson. I used to believe that there is no way in the hell that Texas would consider changing the design. Now, with the trend of new designs shown by a majority of programs, I’m not so sure? Q) A lot has been written recently about the new desire to increase the quality of stadiums versus the quantity of seating. i.e. more luxury boxes, in-stadium experiences, removing nose bleed sections, etc. Any of those discussions being had at UT? Patterson spoke at a sports club I attend and mentioned the enclosing of the south endzone, but nobody talked about anything else. A) Patterson and the hired consultants are still in their assessment phase. There has been a lot of discussion on several projects but, not priority or schedule has been set. Q) How have the beer sales gone, so far? Any problems? Or, are we on the way to $1 million revenues? A) There have not been any problems. Did you notice the venues all the involved agencies are monitoring the alcohol use from? Womens Basketball, Baseball etc… Pretty calm crowds in general. The fact is, the venues they are generating their study off of, is in no way going to be the same atmosphere at a football game. However, we had to show we are doing our due diligence by acquiring data from TABC, APD and other agencies. Q) In your last Xfire you and FoB discussed that Aggies are paying for players. I commented that saying the Ags are paying needs to stop unless there's something to back it up and got killed by other commenters. A) No, what was discussed is that FOB had lunch with a former college coach and the subject came up that this is a topic of discussion with the Texas High School coaches. Q) Our basketball entertainment is lame. Any work going on to change it? I would like to see the days most popular songs and the dance team freelancing. Lets try the professional bball entertainment mode just once and gauge the appeal. A) All of the sporting venues are under evaluation. With Patterson’s history in the NBA, I would expect Texas to adopt some of the NBAs entertainment ideas. Q) What is the status of Leroy Scott, is he on double secret probation or is he gone without comment from the new coaching staff? A) As of right now, Leroy is off the team. Whether or not Coach Strong is going to give him an opportunity for reinstatement is yet to be seen. Q) What is being shared with media and/or interested alumni about The Plan? WTF is Texas going to put on the field. I'm hearing the players playbooks are super secret. Does anyone outside the coaching staff and maybe some players have a clue what kind of O/D the Horns are going to use in 2014? A) The plan is to compete for the B12 title in the first year. The staff believes they have enough talent to win every game they have on their schedule. Look for the defense to run a 3-3-5 stack and the offense to use pro multiple sets. Give the staff the spring to evaluate what talent they have to run a particular offense/defense. Q) 1. mcphaul, are there any updates as per the "disney" contingent? Are there many changes / ideas forthcoming? are the "disney" staffer's touring the mighty confines of belmont hall? are they meeting with football management? what gives, upon this all important "game day" front leading into the next season? A) Like I mentioned previously, all sporting venues are under evaluation. 2. mcphaul, we are all acutely aware that there is indeed a new "sheriff" in town in regards to the "texas" gridiron hierarchy. however my friend, whenever you approach your weekly interview as per "friend of bevo"... this time, dig deep! i mean, for some strange reason, lately i get the feeling that we are "barely scratching the surface of topics" whenever you speak with him. i mean think about it mcphaul.... in the past, "fob" was a "juggernaut" of information. and now a day's, it seems as though he is just "tip toeing through the tulips" or so to speak. "fob" should indeed be a bit more comfortable with the new regime to some degree darryl. tell him that he has us spoiled... and i'm sure that he may really decide to "bring the wood". A) Give everyone time to get to know one another. Relationships on every level take time. The staff has been on the job for a short time but, yes, the FOB’s are making those introductions & building those relationships. Q) Are there plans to rearrange basketball seating next year to get students closer and liven up the crowd at games? A) It is being looked at but, no plans have been finalized, only thoughts and ideas. Q) We've talked a lot about the new coaching staff. I'm interested in how that translates on the field like anyone else, but am curious as to what player on the team is going to benefit the most from some actual coaching and conditioning. I have my own thoughts, but would like to hear FOB's thoughts on this. Who springs forward above where we thought they were due to the improved coaching and conditioning? A) The staff is counting on DT Hassan Ridgeway to step his game up along with DE’s Caleb Bluitt, Shiro Davis and Bryce Cottrel. The offensive line is the other area Texas should see marked improvement. Stacy Searles did a wonderful job of rebuilding the roster with young depth. I know Coach Wickline is pleased with the talent he has to work with. It is crucial that Kenny Estelle dedicates himself to school & football. At this time, the verdict is still out on Estelle. CONVERSATION WITH FRIEND OF BEVO Me: What’s going on? FOB: Just got back from watching the baseball team take all three of their games in Houston this weekend. Me: That was a great series for us. Talk about a confidence builder. FOB: Yes, yes it was. Let me commend you on your city. We all have such a great time every time we come down here. Good Lord I must have put on ten pounds this weekend. Picking a place to eat in this town is always such a great treat. Back to baseball, this is a very gritty bunch. The pitching was very good but, the difference between this year’s club and last year's is: this team is finding a way of winning the close games. We did not win these types of games last year. That Peters kid threw a heck of a game. Me: What has changed? FOB: The boys were challenged this past off-season both mentally and physically on a level they have not been in the past. Me: It seems to have paid off? FOB: Accountability is good thing. Augie will be the first tell you he himself he had to dust up (prepare) differently this year. Me: I have heard this could be Augie’s last year. Any truth to that? FOB: It has definitely been discussed. Honestly neither party is sure which way it could go right now. Me: Let’s talk about basketball. FOB: What do you have? Me: I heard no matter what happens the rest of the season that a decision has been made to retain Coach Barnes next season. FOB: The Myles Turner camp has asked for assurances that Rick Barns and Jai Lucus will be coaching at Texas next year. Texas has assured them that should not be a concern. Read into that what you will. Me: With the addition of Turner and literally the whole team returning next season gives Texas Hoops fans every reason to believe we can snap Kansas’ stronghold on the B12 title. FOB: If Barnes lands Turner, Texas will undoubtedly have one of the saltiest front courts in college basketball. Me: Not to mention Isaiah & Felix with another year under their belt. FOB: Barnes should be able to make some serious noise this year and next with that roster. Me: Let’s get back to football. FOB: What ya got? Me: Why isn’t Texas getting the top blue-chips to visit for our Junior Days? FOB: There are different reasons for different kids. It is track season so, that has limited some kids from making the trip. Some others can’t find the transportation and some want to be shown more love that includes an offer before they visit. Me: I guess I was of the impression that kids would line up to visit Texas and meet the new staff. FOB: The ones that have, certainly have been impressed. More importantly, the parents are starting to see what Coach Strong is all about. JW Ketchum’s mom‘s certainly had a lot of praise for a Coach Strong and the changes as did Darron Daniels' father. Once recruit parents start getting the word out, you are going to see more recruits and their parents making the trip to Austin. Me: Should we be concerned? FOB: Not yet and I will tell you why. Let Strong get a year under his belt, a season he can point to that shows the recruits, parents and Texas HS Football coaches that he and his staff are on the right track. I hate to bring up Coach Brown again but, this program become extremely stale on all fronts. Coach Brown's lack of leadership, the assistant coaches jockeying for position and disagreeing about personnel, no accountability amongst the players, really created a very unhealthy culture at Texas. Coach Strong is not popular enough on the national level or in the state of Texas to overcome the damage that was done in the last four years in a couple of months. Me: So, he has his work cut out for him? FOB: Think about all the different issues Charlie has had to address in the last two months alone: Changing Jobs Hiring a staff Moving his family Retaining the 2014 class Implementing a new culture with rules & accountability Getting to know his players Traveling and introducing he and his staff to all the HS coaches across this big state Evaluating next year’s recruits and that mean nationwide Getting ready for the his first spring practices Charlie has more on his plate than most but has continued to address each area with the utmost confidence. Me: I have had several people that have recently visited Bellmont tell me that the mood is somber. FOB: I don’t get that feel at all. That sounds like someone’s personal feelings. Look, there is definitely an "all business" attitude on the Forty now and with evaluations being conducted in just about every area, there is going to be tension in the air. Me: Back to recruiting. We did not have one commitment from last weekend’s Junior Day. FOB: We only offered four kids and two of those are for the 2016 class. One area I am going to point out again is this: the OOS recruiting is not like anything we have ever seen at Texas before. We have 40 plus in state offers out and 20 plus out of state offers out and that out of state offers continue to be extended every week. Me: Do you think that is a good thing? FOB: I think it is a necessary to go out of state at this time. Until Strong and staff have a season to sell and time to build those relationships, Texas is darn lucky this staff has out of state contacts & relationships to draw from. Texas could well indeed end up with 10 out of state commitments in next year' class. Me: Wow that is a lot for Texas. FOB: That number should subside once Coach Strong and staff has a year under their belt or it might not. Charlie may well put Texas on the national map. I do know this, he is not scared to go after ANY kid. Me: That’s all I got for now. Appreciate the time as always! FOB: You betcha.

This week’s Crossfire will address the upcoming Junior Days and which recruits we can expect to see on The 40 Acres. We'll also look at Coach Strong's recruiting prowess and the future out-of-conference football schedules for the Longhorns. As always we will check-in with Friend of Bevo to see what's going on during the off-season. Let's get to it! Texas Upcoming Junior Days on February 22 & March 1 Visitor List ATH - John Humphrey - League City Clear Falls ATH - Billy Ray McCrary - Leander Rouse ATH - Ryan Newsome - Aledo ATH - Tony Nicholson - South Grand Prairie ATH - Dylan Moses - Baton Rouge University Laboratory School (2017) QB - Ryan Agnew - Southlake Carroll QB - Jaylon Henderson - Kingwood Park (March 1) QB - Keaton Torre - Edmond (OK) Santa Fe (2016) QB - Josh White - Marietta (GA) Walton (2016) RB - Tristian Houston - Galena Park North Shore RB - Patrick Carr - The Woodlands (unsure because of track) RB - Kameron Martin - Port Arthur Memorial (2016) WR - Jaelan Austin - South Grand Prairie WR - James Proche - Dallas Prime Prep (maybe March 1) WR - Denver Johnson - Oklahoma City Casady WR - Tyron Johnson - New Orleans Warren Easton Senior(Not decided) WR - Deshawn Capers-Smith - New Orleans Warren Easton Senior(Not decided) OL - Patrick Vahe - Euless Trinity- Soft Commit to Texas OL - Connor Lanfear - Buda Hayes- Soft Commit to Texas OL - Ronnie Major - Huntsville OL - Keaton Sutherland - Flower Mound Marcus OL - Toby Weathersby - Houston Westfield DT - Bryce English – DeSoto- Committed to Texas DT - Darrion Daniels - Dallas Bishop Dunne (March 1) DT - Derek Brown - Katy (March 1) DT - Jeremy Cox - Edmond (OK) Santa Fe DT - Vessy Parrish - Edmond (OK) Santa Fe (2016) DE - James Lockhart - Ennis (Not decided) DE - Charles Omenihu - Rowlett DE - Josh Uluocha - Stafford DE - Lonzell Gilmore - Spring LB - Cameron Townsend - Missouri City Ridge Point LB - Anthony Wheeler - Dallas Skyline LB - Landis Durham - Plano East (undecided on which one) LB - Arthur McGinnis - New Orleans Warren Easton Senior (possible) DB - Jalen Campbell - Corpus Christi Flour Bluff- Committed to Texas DB - Holton Hill - Houston Lamar (undecided on which one) DB - Johnny Shaw - West Orange-Stark DB - Kenneth McGruder - Alief Taylor DB - James Locke - Beaumont Central (undecided on which one) DB - Jordan Tolbert - Missouri City Ridge Point (maybe on March 1) DB - Ashton Preston - Edmond (OK) Santa Fe DB - Gary Woods - Oklahoma City Casady Holding a UT offer/invited but unlikely to be in attendance QB - Jarrett Stidham - Stephenville QB - JW Ketchum - Missouri City Fort Bend Marshall RB - Ronald Jones II - McKinney North RB - Chris Warren - Rockwall RB - Jay Bradford - Splendora RB - Jamycal Hasty - Longview DT - Daylon Mack - Gladewater LB - Malik Jefferson - Mesquite Poteet DB - Larry Pryor - Sulphur Springs DB - Kendall Sheffield - Missouri City Fort Ben Marshall DB - Kris Boyd – Spring visitor Top 20 Q & A from Horn Sports Members Q) Will Max Wittek sign with Texas? A) The coaching staff did a very nice job selling an opportunity to compete for the starting job. Louisville and Hawaii can sell a clear path to the starters role. Right now I would say it’s 50/50. Q) Seems that more of the top rated 15 class players are not including Texas among their top schools. Comments? A) Give this staff time to develop the necessary relationships’. Having a year under their belt to point to will be beneficial. Q) Plus your thoughts on so many out of state offers offers. A) Apparrently this staff has already evaluated these OOS recruits and has had previous relationships established. Q) 1. Give us the pros and cons of having a marquee game versus a team like USC in Mexico City. A) Pro= Money & Exposure A) Con= International travel is not convenient for the fan bases Q) How does the admin and those in the athletic dept feel about potentially losing a home game of that caliber to Mexico City? A) I think they are looking at it as what we are going to gain and not what we lose by playing in Mexico City. Q) Darrell, how about an update from you or Shaunsters on where things sit with Mr. Myles Tuner? FYI, I'll probably guess this will be an ongoing thing until he signs. A) Texas leads large. Q) Odds on J Gray playing in 2014? A) It is very early in the rehab to estimate. Different people respond to rehab in different time manners. There is absolutely no reason to rush the kid. Q) What's going on inside Bellmont? We were lead to believe Patterson was going to shake things up and bring in a leaner, more effective staff. So far it seems an empty promise. A) You better believe the people in Bellmont understand there is a new sheriff in town. Patterson is not one to go off half cocked. Steve has had a lot on his plate the last three months. Give the man a little time and this time next year you can probably expect him to have all “his” people in place. Q) Odds Cam Ridley goes NBA draft? Please don't! A) At this time, I’m hearing that he is strongly considering returning to Texas next year to play alongside Myles Turner. There is no doubt that the agents are going to be in Ridleys ear but, I think he stays. Q) Will Mack be visible on the 40 acres at games/practices, or fade in to the background? I bet the later bit give me your thoughts. A) Mack is gone. From what I’m hearing, Mack is no more interested on being on the 40 than some are having him here. Q) We told everybody you had a change of heart and went back to OB. A) Then you told them wrong The majority of the posters I prefer to correspond with are on Hornsports and I don’t see that ever changing. Besides, the Hornsports members are too smart to believe I would go back to OB’s. Q) How are we going to combat the SEC recruiting tactics? A) You win football games. Q) Do you know how many instances have been documented? A) Documented by whom? Don’t hold your breath on the NCAA doing anything concerning the SEC & cheating. The cheaters have it down to an art. Unless there is a whistleblower, nothing is going to come out. Q) I heard Aggie coach is not happy with BMD's bad behavior. True? A) Every HC in the SEC probably has some “concern” when it comes to booster dealings. The HC does not want some booster scandal hitting the press. There is a lot to learn when it comes to being a HC in the SEC and the way booster hierarchy is in place. The HC may not like it but, he can’t control it. Q) Any repercussions coming Powers way? A) No. Q) Will Hall be impeached? A) Yes. Q) Any noise on the upcoming Penn State trials? A) It won’t be pretty. It’s past time for closure. Q) If the NCAA is going to turn a blind eye to the "payola" recruiting tactics employed by the SEC in the state of Texas, should Texas use the LHN as a tool and broadcast games and highlights of every recruit that Texas is pursuing? The NCAA doesn't have the stones to do anything about it and I doubt they would want to mess with a large institution like UT. A) Expect Patterson & Texas to push the envelope with the LHN. Q) What about Tim Brewster? A) Not happening “this year.” Q) Does Bruce Chambers get credit for the positive play of our TEs of yesteryear, or only bad rep for our lack of quality TE play of late? A) Resting on your laurels is exactly the problem Texas staff has had in the past years. Chambers was rewarded accordingly for the past. The TE position has been a nightmare from the recruiting to the development for years now. The Louisville TE caught 46 passes last year so, we have to see improvement this year. Q) What's the status on a new basketball arena and where is it going? A) Still looking at several properties. Q) Is Patterson accepting resumes? If so, how can I get it to him? A) I’m having lunch with him soon so, email it to me. I will see that he gets it. Q) What's the perception of how 2015 recruiting is going (or is it too early to tell)? A) Way too early to tell. However, we have more out of state offers in the last month that we have had for the last five years combined. Q) Any word on whether practices will be open to the public? A) Not yet. Q) Have you heard any rumblings about the status of Barnes for next year? A) I heard he was put on notice and by the looks of it Barnes has responded accordingly. If Texas loses in the first round and fails to land blue chip recruit Myles Turner, I could then see the heat over come Barnes. If Barnes wins a couple of tourney games and lands Tuner, he mostly likely bought some more time. Q) When Disney consults, what will be their priority? Game day experience as in the Orange Bowl halftime faldera, or home field advantage & atmosphere like Death Valley or better? Are they trying to intimidate visiting teams or get more money out of the season ticket holders? Is the dictate to help fulfill Mack's goal of "come early, stay late, be loud, and wear orange" or provide recliners to the "sit down" crowd? How much say will the students or the team get? A) There is not a set priority. My understanding is they are looking into everything we do now oppose to how other professional entertainment venues operate. Once they have an understanding of what might work for our culture, they will make a presentation. Related Q: Will they ever get the ads off the Godzillatron,turn the volume down & use it for replays & break aways like on TV so it finally reaches its potential, or will it become something people will be happy to see go? A) It will be replaced with the newest model. I’m sure Patterson is looking at using this in the same manner an NFL does. Q) Have you heard upon whether or not if coach Strong has decided to go through as per the construction of a new two story practice facility? it was stated upon the ob... that coach strong was having a bit of trepidation about building a new facility in spite of the "bubble" eyesore. what gives upon this front? A) Coach Strong just said that he can work with what he has now and building a new facility is not on the top of his priority list. Q) What's the relationship like now between the BMD's and Patterson and Strong? A) The relationship are being formed by all parties. Everyone is being supportive of Coach Strong. Q) How are the high school coaches meshing with the new coaching staff? A) Some of them have like what they have heard about the level of accountability but, building those relationships is going to take time. Q) What's the job description of a Special Assistant to the President? Details, details, details..... A) Fund raiser, back slapper, golfing, speaking engagements etc….. Q) How does the HS coaches take all these OOS offers going out? A) I would assume they understand that we are aware that we are behind in state so; it would behoove us to pursue and maintain as many oos relationships as possible. Q) Any news about Brewster? With the offer to Gragg a few days ago, it doesn't seem like Chambers is going anywhere. A) Nothing is changing this year. Q) What are strong and company going to do to make inroads into Texas HS football since they really don't know the lay of the land? A) The same thing Mack Brown did, visit as many as you can and build those relationships. Q) I know this was being discussed at variety of boards when Strong was hired, but do you know if there is any talk about potential Satellite Camps? A) There was under Suddes. With all the contacts this staff has back in the SE, I could see Texas hosting a few satellite camps in the near future. Q) Any chance we hook up with the ACC in conference realignment? A) IMO the next realignment in our future in going to be the realignment of all of college football and not conference realignment. Any updates on attrition? Are the workouts maybe weeding some of the Hack Brown babies out? Q) What does Bevo think of the Nick Saban 10 second rule change? Does this have a chance in hell of passing? I believe it will degrade the game of college football personally.... A) I doubt it but, you have to admire the fact that Saban is always working it. Q) Any updates on attrition? Are the workouts maybe weeding some of the Hack Brown babies out? A) Expect two OL's, two receivers, two tight ends, two line backers and possibly a DT to transfer or give up football altogether. Q) What changes are being considered for the South end zone? A) I don’t think anything has been official decided. Q) Why is Strong happy with the bubble when it seems to be smaller than some other schools? A) That was taken of context. Strong did not say he was happy with it. Coach Strong said it was not a priority at this time and it was not a factor in preventing us from being prepared when we take the field. No excuses. Q) Will the new Godzillatron be as large as the current? A) This is Texas, so I would imagine it will done in style. Strong Projections? In his first recruiting class at Louisville (he had 2 months to work), he immediately went heavy on the OL & DL bringing 10 guys in the trenches (a glaring need for us as well). More need-based than talent. His first class the 2010 group was ranked 48th with 28 signed LOI's: 3-Four Stars 18-Three Stars*. Four of five of those kids from that class are projected to be taken in the NFL. In that same class, Texas was ranked 3rd with 25 signed LOI's: 2-Five Stars 19-Four Stars 4-Three Stars. Only 2 of those recruits have a draft projection. Strong’s first full year recruiting at Louisville ( class 2011) was the best in Louisville history: Louisville ranked 29th with only 20 kids. 16 of those freshmen saw significant playing time. 4-Four Stars 15-Three Stars Six players from that class are projected to be drafted. Texas again ranked 3rd with 22 kids. 1-Five Star 15-Four Stars 6-Three Stars Six of those Texas recruits are projected to be drafted by the NFL. -Eleven to thirteen of those two Louisville classes are projected to be drafted in the NFL. -Those two Louisville classes made up most of the 23-3 record with big bowl wins over Florida & Miami the last two years. - Strong has done a wonderful job of turning out NFL talent. - in the last 7 years, Strong has had 22 guys drafted on defense and 37 during his time at Florida. Approved Coaching Salaries Charlie Strong, Head Coach * 5-year contract that begins at $5 million annually and includes an annual $100,000/year raise. Vance Bedford, Defensive Coordinator * $800,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees $30,000 for speaking engagements and $10,000 for camps Shawn Watson, Assistant Head Coach/QB coach * $650,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees $30,000 for speaking engagements and $10,000 for camps Joe Wickline, Offensive Coordinator/OL Coach * $575,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees $30,000 for speaking engagements and $10,000 for camps Chris Rumph, Defensive Line Coach * $415,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Tommie Robinson, Running Backs Coach * $200,000 in year 1 and $350,000 in years 2 and 3 - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Les Koenning, Wide Receiver Coach * $350,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Pat Moorer, Strength and Conditioning Coach * $330,000/yr for 3 years Brian Jean-Mary, Line Backers Coach * $315,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Bruce Chambers, Tight Ends Coach * $275,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Chris Vaughn, Defensive Backs Coach * $260,000/yr for 3 years - includes annual guarantees of $10,000 for speaking and $5,000 for camps Future Texas Out of Conference Football Schedule 2015 Date Opponent Time Sept. 5 at Notre Dame TBA Sept. 12 RICE TBA Sept. 19 CAL TBA 2016 Date Opponent Time Sept. 3 NOTRE DAME TBA Sept. 10 UTEP TBA Sept. 17 at Cal TBA 2017 Date Opponent Time Sept. 2 MARYLAND TBA Sept. 9 UCF TBA Sept. 16 at USC TBA 2018 Date Opponent Time Sept. 1 at Maryland TBA Sept. 15 USC TBA 2019 Date Opponent Time Aug. 31 NOTRE DAME TBA 2020 Date Opponent Time Sept. 12 at Notre Dame TBA 2021 Date Opponent Time Sept. 11 at Arkansas TBA 2022 Date Opponent Time Sept. 17 OHIO STATE TBA 2023 Date Opponent Time Sept. 16 at Ohio State TBA Friend of Bevo FOB: The offseason workouts continue to go well. The majority of the team has responded well. The kids are excited because they are seeing the results of the hard their hard work. There is no doubt this will be one of the most well conditioned Texas teams we have seen in a while. Hopefully being in better conditioning strength and conditioning wise will cut down on the amount of injuries we have endured these last few years. Me: I hate asking this every week but, are you hearing about any attrition? FOB: Yes, like I said before, I hate mentioning names but, there is going to be around six kids that will probably come to the conclusion that there time would be better served elsewhere. This is to be expected any time you have a new staff come in. Me: I can’t wait for spring ball to get here so we can see the product on the field. FOB: I wouldn’t be too excited about spring ball. The kids are going to be learning new terminology and that in itself limits to amount of full contact practices. It is going to be interesting to see how much this staff can implement in the spring. Me: How is David Ash progressing? FOB: I was talking to a trainer the other day and he said David is going full speed and has seemed to have shaken off any ill effects of the past concussion. David does not possess the same strength he had but, he is getting there and should be 100% by the time spring practice starts. Me: What do you make of former USC and transfer Max Wittik giving Texas a look with David Ash’s future looking better? FOB: If there is one position we can add depth, it’s the QB position. Charlie and the staff did a wonderful job of selling the opportunity to compete for the starting job. Max and his father left Texas very impressed with everything they saw. Me: Who else is Max considering? FOB: The other two schools that have been mentioned are Hawaii and Louisville where probably has a clearer path to the starting job so, this one is going to be hard to pull off. Me: Are you concerned about the lack of 2015 elite recruits looking our way? FOB: Not yet. It is too early to get worried. This staff is about to host their first two JR days so, the Charlie Strong buzz should be able to pick up some momentum. I have been told that the staff is really looking forward to laying the groundwork for building the relationships. What is refreshing to witness is the confidence the staff carries when it comes to the topic of recruiting. This staff firmly believes they are going to be a force to be reckoned with in the state and nationally. Me: Does it surprise you to see the high number of out of state offers this staff has extended? FOB: I would be lying if I didn’t say yes. I have never seen anything like it at Texas. I would expect the % of out of state offers will diminish when this staff forms new relationships within the Texas borders. Me: I have been impressed with the quality of the offers. This staff is not shy about going after the elite in the south east and Florida. FOB: What have they offered, twenty of the top two hundred and fifty in the nation? Me: Yes, I used the term carpet-bombing. FOB: It is apparent that this staff is going to maintain and retain the relationships they have built throughout their careers and it would be crazy not to. I don’t think any of us realize how confident Strong and his staff is believing they have a national product to sell at Texas. Me: I have always felt that way too and have been somewhat frustrated that we didn’t throw our hats in the ring on more national kids. Me: Switching topics, what do you think about the USC/Tex Mexico city matchup? This has seems to have pissed off a bunch of our fans. FOB: LOL. Hey, I understand that. The big picture is you can’t pass up a great opportunity to market your brand on an international level when it presents itself. This is still is still about the Benjamin’s and those two trips will be extremely profitable. Me: That’s all I got for now. Look forward to seeing you next week. FOB: Hey BTW, I have really enjoyed the Hornsports Roundtable podcast with Feeley and you. Keep up the good work. Me: Thanks. Coleman is a former player and knows the game well. Take care and talk to you next week. Hook 'Em --Darrell McPhaul

Charlie Strong is Ready. Are you? by Marian Hinton, Horn Sports Staff Writer Most Texas fans, at least those who approach things rationally (as few and far between as they may be), will tell you that Mack Brown did a lot for the Texas Longhorns football program during his tenure in Austin. After all, he resurrected a sleeping giant by assembling one of the best teams to ever take the field on the 40 Acres and coached them to their first national title in over three decades. Most Texas fans will also tell you, however, that despite all the good he brought to the program, Coach Brown hung on a little too long. In his last few seasons in Austin, the Longhorns had grown complacent, accustomed to a culture of entitlement and comfort. The players, long considered soft by the national media, frequently underperformed. They often lost games to teams with far inferior talent. There is no doubt, despite all the good Mack did for Texas, the program was desperately in need of a culture change. Enter Charlie Strong. When Strong stepped off the plane from Louisville to Austin, he brought with him an immediate and much needed paradigm shift in the culture that defines Texas Football. Gone are the days of living off campus, unless you are a senior and your grades are up to par. Gone are the days of smoothies and flat screen TVs in the weight room. Gone are the days of players being allowed to wear earrings in football facilities. Gone are the days of missing class. Ever. In short, gone are the days of entitlement. Strong has laid down the law, and he’s proven right out of the gates that he’s not messing around. But is it too much? Since Strong and Company arrived in Austin, the Longhorns have lost more than their share of recruits, leaving some wondering if he’s coming on too strong (no pun intended) or if Texas made the wrong hire. The answer is an adamant and resounding NO. Sure, the Longhorns may lose a few recruits in this class, but that’s only to be expected. The sky is not falling. Strong isn’t “too mean.” Again, a rational fan will tell you that these recruits did not have a chance to build a relationship with Strong, while other coaches across the state have been recruiting them for years. It only makes logical sense that they’d gravitate towards those they know well over those they hardly know. But what about future recruits? Why would they come play for Strong, with his strict rules, lofty demands, and high levels of accountability when other coaches across the state are flashier, more hip, and possibly even more fun? Why come to Austin and puke your guts out working with Coach Moorer in the weight room when you could go to “other” places and party all night with Drake and the like? Sure, he may lose a recruit or two along the way, but the players Strong will bring to Austin will no doubt be here for one thing and one thing only: to play football. Under Strong, the Longhorns will never again be considered soft. If his first few weeks on the job is any indicator, he will not allow his teams to fail to live up to the ridiculously high expectations that should be placed on Texas football. Yes, he will be tough (incredibly tough) on his players; he’s already proven that. Nevertheless, Charlie Strong is exactly what this program needs. He came here to win championships and he’s clearly a man that refuses to settle for anything less. He’s ready. Are you?

Well folks, it’s that time of the week again. We’re getting closer to National Signing Day and the groundwork for the ’14 Season is already being laid in the weight room as I type this. In this week of “Crossfire” we will discuss the Spring Game. Last week we mentioned that some former UT Coaches were on the move. The dust is starting to settle and we will see where these guys are headed or where they are about to land- nothing Earth shattering that hasn’t been discussed already but we’ll revisit it nevertheless. Next, in “Drop and Gimme 20” I will address some of the questions you guys have submitted to me. What kind of defense will we be running? Is Bruce Chambers REALLY going to be our TE Coach or is Tim Brewster coming back home to the 40 Acres? Will Johnathan Gray redshirt in the Fall? Some of the answers you may like. Some, not so much. Nevertheless, I will answer the questions truthfully as I know it to be. And as always we’ll sit down with our old buddy Friend of Bevo (FOB) and see what’s on his mind these days. Here we go.. SPRING GAME SCHEDULED The 2014 Texas Football Orange-White game has been scheduled! Time & Date: Saturday, April 19, at 1 p.m. Site: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. TV: Longhorn Network Spring practice is scheduled to begin March 18th. COACHES ON THE MOVE Stacy Searles accepted a job on the Frank Beamers’ West Virginia staff. Major Applewhite is presently negotiating his severance package with the University of Texas so he can accept the Quarterbacks position coach at North Carolina on Larry Fedora’s staff. Bo Davis has accepted the DL position coach under Nick Saban at Alabama. Manny Diaz has accepted the DC position on Skip Holtz’s staff at Louisiana Tech. Oscar Giles as mentioned last week is talking to Sonny Dykes at Cal, Mark Richt at Georgia and one other school I’m not privy to. Still no information on who the 3rd school is at this point. Duane Akina is still under consideration to join Sonny Dykes staff at Cal. DROP AND GIMME 20 - Q & A Q) Are many of us on this board right when we suggest all of the panicking needs to stop? A) Legendary Texas A&M Basketball coach Shelby Metcalfe once said that the only happy Aggie, was an unhappy Aggie. That shoe would fit a good number of our fan base right now. Coach Strong and his staff have been on the job for a little over 3 three weeks now. If you did not foresee de-commits and new out of state offers going out, then you are being a bit naïve. Q) Will Texas hire a TE coach in place of Chambers? A) I believe we learn the final position for Coach Chambers after signing day. Former Texas Tight End Coach and ace recruiter Tim Brewster has been linked to the job. Q) I've been told that Vance Bedford at Louisville implemented a 3-3-5 defensive alignment as a base defense. Which players currently on the UT roster does that benefit that may have been limited last year in terms of playing time? A) Here is what I have been told. There has been too much emphasis placed on Texas running a particular alignment. Texas will end up running the 3-4-4 as often as they do the 3-3-5. Q) Are there any potential big surprises left in recruiting, good or bad? A) As of right now, yes and yes. Q) Where is Deloss Dodds? What is Deloss Dodds doing? Where did Deloss Dodds disappear too? Deloss, anyone? A) Dodds is enjoying his semi retirement. Q) Where do we stand with Poona Ford and what Strongs defense will showcase based off his defense from his past? A) Hornsports has heard reports that Ford has given Coach Strong a verbal. As of right now, I’m not sure who Ford resembles. I have not seen enough of him. Q) Will any of the spring practices be open to the public? A) Nothing has been released. Q) Do you foresee any movement of players from one side of the ball to the other during spring drills? I know there are folks wishing for Mykkele Thompson to get a look on Offense, but have you smelled or seen any smoke regarding Mykkele or others? A) Not at this time. I have a hard time imagining Coach Strong would move a senior. Possibly Overstreet. Q) With the emergence of Brown is it safe to say that Gray will be given the opportunity to Red Shirt to ensure that he is healthy for the following season. And if that is the case who other than Joe will see handoffs? Easy guess would be Overstreet or Daje back to a full time rb..any sleepers (freshmen) to watch out for? A) Gray would absolutely be given the opportunity to red shirt if he is not healthy. The Brown & Bergeron duo have shown they can handle the majority of the carries for next season. It is crucial that the duo remain healthy. Let’s hope that Strong and staff influence Daje to dedicated himself. Something Daje has not done since he has been on campus. It is going to be interesting to see what true frosh gets some looks. Q) Do we hire Tim Brewster? A) That is the rumor. Q) Is Bill Little going to be replaced/retired? Will the UT sports information staff be replaced/reshuffled? Does Coach Strong communicate with the SID? A) I’m not sure on Bill Little but I’m certain that Patterson is evaluating all positions. Q) Any chance we will get a QB transferring in that can play right away? A) It does not appear that this staff is talking to any prospect. At this time, the staff is encouraged by David Ash’s progress. Q) Does Charlie Strong need landscaping services? Or anyone on the staff? A) I have been told that Strong & Staff are only worried about one lawn. Joe Jamail Field. Q) What about Barnes' job status with all this winning going on? His leash should be loosened, IMO. A) Barnes has been put on notice. One would have to believe that he is on track to save his job “if” Texas continues to make excellent progress. Q) Will Augie still step down at the end of the season, as has been stated in the past few months by various sources? A) I believe there is better than a 50/50 chance. Q) Can we get an update on the Foreman twins? Will they stick or jump to Misery? A) I hearing that Armanti did not care for the new on campus/class rules that Coach Strong is implementing. We also know the brothers wanted to stay close to home. Q) Everybody's heard about the former Alabama running back from Florida who apparently in the full view of God and everybody was cheating, who was getting extra benefits. RSJ's dad says he was offered a substantial sum of money for his son's signature. There have been more than a couple of reports of the Aggies now fully invested in $EC recruiting tactics, not to mention the blatant FU Johnny Manziel gave to the NCAA last year and then basically skated. What, if anything, are you hearing regards the Aggies and their paying/providing extra benefits to players? (Historically ANY time they've been relevant they've been PROVEN to have been cheating!) Are you hearing anything? A) I guess you are not familiar of the Mike Goodson saga? Under Franchione A&M alums hired Mrs. Goodson for a job in Bryan/College Station? Mrs. Goodson accepted the position and moved to B/CS leaving behind her two younger sons in Klein. Mr. Goodson accepted a sales position with an Aggie owned car dealership in Houston before he was sent to prison. BTW, Mike Goodson never graduated from high school. Mike attained his GED during the summer after his Sr. year. The A&M Powerbrokers understood that they were going to have to step their game up if they joined the SEC and they have. A&M is going to do what they have to do to succeed. The problem is the cheaters have gotten a whole lot smarter than the NCAA. I would not hold my breath on the NCAA doing anything about the rampant cheating in the SEC. Q) While the BMD's are now playing nice, how pissed are they really and who really is in the crosshairs, Patterson or Powers? A) Patterson better deliver. Texas is not going to do what Rick Perry tried to do and fire Powers. CONVERSATION WITH FRIEND OF BEVO McPhaul: Thanks for getting back to me. FOB: It’s not a problem. McPhaul: What are your thoughts on the recruit defections? They sure have a small portion of our fan base in a tizzy. FOB: Sometimes I wonder if people don’t think before they write. Looky here, Charlie & staff have been on the job for three weeks. Gary Patterson, Art Briles and Kevin Sumlin have built relationships with these recruits for at least two years, some of them longer. Are people that naïve to believe there is not going to be the same level chemistry & comfort between the different staff’s? Give this staff a whole year to build the necessary relationships and I believe they are going to be a force to reckon with. McPhaul: Some believe that Coach Strong is coming across too hard and that is the reason for some commitments wanting to take other visits. FOB: That’s hogwash. If coming across straight and telling the kid what he can expect is too hard then some of those kids were not going to cut it in the first place. You better believe we would rather lose them now then investing time in them and losing them via transfer later on. That’s not good for anybody. McPhaul: Some have voiced their concern about Coach Strong’s rules of living on campus and sitting in the front two rows for all their classes. Some believe that is going to cost Texas from consideration for some blue chips. FOB: I’m not going to sugar coat this. Under Strong, Texas is not going to be for everybody. In case you have not noticed, the country club ran here and is presently being run at schools across our state, is NOT going to happen at Texas. Those days are gone. You better come here because you are serious about graduating and dedicating yourself to the team. Of course that message has scared a few. When the Texas High School coaches see that Charlie is genuine and the recruits and their families see that their kids are truly receiving a education that will last a lifetime, they will line up to come here. McPhaul: I have never seen so many out of state offers in such a short period of time. FOB: Take notice: this staff has relationships all over the country. Right now they are relying on those relationships to recruit out of state a fill the needs left in this 2014 recruiting class. I will be honest, I’m excited to see what our out of state recruiting looks like in two years. I believe Texas is going to be a monster on the national scene. McPhaul: There are rumors about former Texas TE coach Tim Brewster returning to the 40. What do you know about that? FOB: I know that there has been communications between Texas and Brewster. Don’t look for any staff shake up before singing day. McPhaul: How are the offseason workouts going? FOB: Pat Moore doesn’t play around. I don’t think I have seen Pat smile one time. This Texas team may come up short in some games next but, it won’t be because we are soft and out of shape. This staff will put well-conditioned athletes on the field. McPhaul: How is the team handling it? FOB: Honestly the staff is pleased. I have the pleasure of speaking with a position coach and he told me that the kids have been very receptive and the effort has been there. You are going to see a certain kinds of kids thrive in this new environment. Let me reiterate, this program is not going to be for the weak-minded. It doesn’t matter how talented you are, you are going to work and work hard. McPhaul: You hearing about possible transfers? FOB: There is going to be some attrition. There always is when a new staff comes in. The staff has been good about letting the kids know where they stand. McPhaul: One more question before I let you go. FOB: What you got? McPhaul: Is A&M paying again? FOB: Again? You’re assuming they ever stopped? The problem now is they are learning the SEC tactics and that’s not good for anybody. From what I understand coach Sumlin is not happy about the alum involvement but cannot control it. McPhaul: Alright man, I'll holler soon! FOB: Later Well folks, that’s all I got for now. Signing Day is just around the corner and I expect next week to be an interesting one to say the least. We’ll be with you the entire time keeping you posted as things progress. Until then, Hook ‘em! McPhaul

On a hot Saturday night in Austin, Texas.... or a chilly Saturday morning at the Cotton Bowl...... Can you see this guy doing work and kicking ass? I sure the hell can and I'm excited about it.