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Georgia is a playoff team and one of top four teams in the country they said. Georgia is going to run all over Texas and it won’t be close they said. Georgia is too physical and defense is nonexistent in the Big 12 they said. THEY were dead wrong. Texas entered this contest a two touchdown dog to the Bulldogs from Athens, Georgia, and if you listened to the talking heads this game was over before the teams ever took the field. Just about everyone seemingly had written off the Longhorns having a chance in this matchup. That is just about everyone except the team itself. While Bevo certainly set the tone before the game, it was evident from early on in the game that Texas had come in confident and prepared to slug it out with Georgia. They were playing fast and flying around and looked like the Tom Herman coached teams that we’ve become accustomed to seeing in big games. It was refreshing and fun to watch this team play the role of giant killer, as they proved to those around the country that they are heading in the right direction. Herman and his staff have certainly righted the ship and they have a chance to really make some noise in 2019. With that all said here are my takeaways from the Texas sized takedown of the Bulldogs. Sam Ehlinger’s Rise To Stardom Continues I’ve written about Ehlinger’s progression as a player this year several times over now. Ehlinger went from a reckless freshman trying to make every play in year one to an All- Big 12 caliber quarterback who will certainly be in the Heisman conversation going into the 2019 season. Last night wasn’t Ehlinger’s best performance, but as usual he provided a steady hand for the offense, played turnover free football, and put together a gritty performance against one of the nation’s best defenses. Ehlinger went on to tie the Sugar Bowl record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback on the way to earning MVP honors for the game and on top of that almost brought the house down with his now famous quote during the trophy presentation. Have a night, young man. Ehlinger has never lacked confidence or swagger, but walking into house that Drew Brees built rocking a Brees Westlake throwback was a total boss move and on top of that he delivered the win. On the year, Ehlinger tallied just over 3800 yards of total offense and accounted for 41 touchdowns. Texas fans get to enjoy him for two more years. Big 12 Defense > SEC Defense Remember all that talk about how the Big 12 didn’t play defense? Well the Texas defense showed up to the Superdome like they were sick of all that talk, because they brought the hard hats to the yard and went to work. Todd Orlando’s bunch came out flying around the yard and laying the wood to anything in red and white and it was a lot of fun to watch. Georgia has a ground and pound offensive identity that they like to use to wear down defenses, but their vaunted rushing attack only produced 72 yards on 30 carries, which was good for a meager 2.4 YPC. On top of that, the Texas defense forced two turnovers and almost got a third on another fumble, which left the Longhorns at +2 in the turnover margin for the evening. Texas was able to generate pressure on Jake Fromm for most of the night and BJ Foster laid a hit on him that most certainly landed Fromm in an ice bath after the game. This entire group deserves a game ball for showing up with their big boy britches on and winning a scrap that many people didn’t give them chance to win. Tre Watson Will Be Missed In 2019 Convincing Watson to come to Austin over Lubbock and Baton Rouge ended up being one of the most underrated recruiting victories for the Longhorn staff. In a game where running room was at a premium, Watson came out as the leading rusher at 91 yards on 18 carries (5.1 YPC) and despite being a smaller back he was consistently finishing his runs and dishing out some punishment on the back end. Finding a back with his skillset that could provide a veteran presence this year was very important given that Keaontay Ingram was banged up for a good portion of the year and couldn’t shoulder a full load of carries. Watson made the most of his touches last night in NOLA and his success brought some balance to the Texas offense and kept the Georgia defense from omitting the Texas run game and making life harder on Ehlinger on his drop backs. The issue of Texas being thin at running back has already been discussed in length here, so it will be interesting to see how the staff goes about replacing Watson’s production. Quiet Night For Texas’ Dynamic Duo At WR Collin Johnson and Lil’Jordan Humphrey absolutely terrorized defenses all year long, but last night was one of the quieter nights for the duo that I can remember. While they both made some key plays that prolonged drives or eventually led to points, they were held in check for most of the evening. Johnson in particular seemed invisible early on in the matchup before he finally made a nice catch up the sideline for a 35 yard gain. Johnson ended the night with 3 catches for 40 yards, but he did convert Texas’ lone two point conversion on a back shoulder fade late in the game. Humphrey on the other hand was the Longhorns’ leading receiver in the contest (7 catches, 67 yards) and he also completed his only pass attempt for 8 yards. I figured with Deandre Baker out that these two would have been a little more busy last night, but the Georgia defense fared pretty well against them all things considered. With this game in the books, now we wait and see if Johnson will opt to return to school or decide to take their talents to the NFL. No Sterns, No Problem With Caden Sterns hobbled coming into this game, Texas was down one freshman All-American and forced to do some juggling on the back end of the defense. Even with The Wolf on the sidelines, Texas was more than fine due to the performances of guys like BJ Foster and PJ Locke, who ended up playing bigger roles in Sterns’ absence. It was refreshing to see Locke play well and come up with a big turnover given his well-documented struggles over the past two seasons and Foster absolutely looked the part of the five star recruit the networks pegged him as. Foster’s hit on Fromm late in the contest was one of the plays of the night, as he got a free run off the edge on a blitz and laid a hard, clean hit on the quarterback. While Texas will have to replace both starting corners in Kris Boyd and Devante Davis, the Longhorns are absolutely stacked at safety with Brandon Jones likely returning and the Foster/Sterns combo being underclassmen. The future is bright on the back end of the defense and I know the staff has to be giddy about how this group is shaping up going into 2019.

IMO, we could be venturing into territory whereby this current class can be compared favorably to the best UT class ever. As far as I know, the Chris Simms class has been widely regarded as our best ever. If we land White, Ossai, Waddle, etc., it might be worth a comparison. We can't make the complete comparison yet, but we can start. Daniel, do you have a good idea of what we can use as a barometer against the two? Total points? Stars?

Texas (1-1, 0-0) will travel to Los Angeles on Saturday to take on USC (2-0, 1-0). The Trojans enter the game coming off an impressive win against Stanford, 42-24. Let’s take a look at what USC has on defense and special teams: Defensive Line The USC defense will operate out a 3-4 look. The nose tackle position is held down by former junior college standout Josh Fatu. Fatu has already recorded 2 tackles for loss and a sack in 2017. The end positions are occupied by Rasheem Green and Malik Dorton. Green was an honorable mention All-PAC 12 member in 2016 and had an excellent game last week against Stanford. Right tackles Tristan Nickelson and Denzel Okafor will draw the task of having to try to slow down Green, who possesses the speed and strength to give the offensive line fits. Dorton has a quiet first few games of the year, only totaling 3 tackles and having no sacks or tackles for loss. Stanford had pretty good success running to Dorton’s side of the line, and with Connor Williams matched up against him on Saturday, it may be smart for Texas to replicate that plan. Linebacker Inside linebacker Cameron Smith is widely considered to be the top player on the Trojan defense. Smith was a second team All-Pac 12 member in 2016 and is one of the top run defenders in the entire country. He is the team leader in tackles with 14 to go along with 2.5 tackles for loss. Beside him is fellow inside linebacker John Houston Jr. The sophomore has 9 tackles on the year to go along with a quarterback hurry. If Texas wants to establish the run game, they will have to find a way to get bodies on Smith and Houston, who both shoot gaps well and have high football IQ’s. The two outside linebackers for USC each serve a different purpose for the Trojan defense. Senior Uchenna Nwosu is seen as an athletic linebacker who the Trojans can rely on in pass coverage and to handle athletes out in space. Nwosu has 9 tackles and a tackle for loss on the season, and will play a vital role in defending the screen game that Texas has utilized through the first two games. Porter Gustin would the starter at the other outside linebacker spot, but Gustin is every questionable for Saturday with a toe injury. The 6’5, 255 pound junior was the named honorable mention All-Pac 12 in 2016, when he lead the team in tackles for loss with 13 and also collected 5.5 sacks. Texas would catch an extreme break if Gustin is unable to play, and sophomore Connor Murphy would likely start in his place. Murphy has seen limited playing time this season, recording 6 tackles. Defensive Back In 2016, Adoree’ Jackson took home the Jim Thorpe award for the top defensive back in the country. Despite Jackson’s departure to the NFL, another defensive back on the Trojans was named to the Jim Thorpe award watch list prior to the 2017 season. Junior Iman Marshall is the top cornerback on the roster, and for good reason. Marshall is in his 3rd season as a starter and has 6 career interceptions. Collin Johnson will again draw a tough corner and will most likely be bracketed by a safety for the third straight game. Opposite of Marshall, the other starting corner is sophomore Jack Jones. Jones had a great game against Stanford a week ago, recording 6 tackles. The Trojans boast a solid safety pairing that is led by senior Chris Hawkins. The 2016 honorable mention All-Pac 12 member has 24 career starts. Hawkins brings a lot of versatility to the USC secondary, having started games at both safety positions and at corner. Marvell Tell III is the starter at the other safety spot and has recorded USC’s only interception through 2 games. Converted wide receiver Ajene Harris will play nickel when the Trojans choose to employ an extra DB. Texas will bring in the most talented receiving group that the Trojans have faced so far this season. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck will need to try to create matchup problems against a USC secondary that has length and plays with good discipline. Wide receivers Reggie Hemphill Mapps, Armanti Foreman and Lil’ Jordan Humphrey will need to find way to get open to help alleviate some of the double coverage Collin Johnson will be facing. Special Teams Interestingly, the Trojans have yet to attempt a field goal in 2017. Redshirt freshman Michael Brown and true freshman Chase McGrath competed for the field goal duties throughout fall camp. Brown tore his ACL in last weeks game and will miss the remainder of the season. This leaves McGrath has the only player left at kicker. The walk on is a perfect 13 for 13 on extra points, but it remains to be seen what he will look like when USC is forced to attempt a field goal. Junior Reid Budrovich is in his first year as the starting punter and is averaging close to 50 yards per punt. Budrovich has had 2 punts land inside the 20. Velus Jones Jr. and Jack Jones serve as the primary kick returners.Velus Jones has returned 2 kicks for total of 61 yards, while Jack Jones has 2 returns for 14 yards. Texas has been vulnerable to long kickoff returns so far this year and USC will have the opportunity to exploit a shaky coverage unit. On punts, Ajene Harris handles the returns. Harris has only had 1 returnable attempt, a 15 yard return against Western Michigan. The Longhorns can not afford to give USC points off of special teams if they have any hope of pulling an upset on Saturday.

Brutal news for the offensive line. Hudson needed all the reps he could get and now he will miss the rest of the year.

The Terrapins beat the Longhorns 51-41 on Saturday at Darrell K. Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium to open the Tom Herman era on the 40 Acres. Let’s take a look at how the Texas defense and special teams graded in the loss to Maryland. Defensive Line Early on, it looked like the Texas defense was going to have its way with the Terrapins. The defensive line played well on the first drive of the game, but after that everything went downhill. Poona Ford played well, taking on double teams and opening up lanes for the linebackers to come down and make plays, but the linebackers failed to make those plays. Charles Omenihu flashed at times, notching Texas’ only sack. Ta’quon Graham played about as well as you could have expected for a freshman. One major disappointment was the non-impact by Malcolm Roach. The sophomore finished with only 1 tackle and was not a disruptive presence in the backfield. Texas only got the quarterback once all game, which is disappointing when facing a team that led the Big 10 in sacks allowed a season ago. Most fans will look at the stats and see 276 yards rushing and think that the defensive line had a rough day, but I would personally place much of that blame on the linebackers. Grade: C Linebackers Following Ty Johnson’s 40-yard touchdown run in the 3rd quarter, I closely watched a replay that showed both Anthony Wheeler and Malik Jefferson filling the wrong gaps, allowing Johnson to run untouched into the end zone. The assignment football that the linebackers struggled with in 2016 seems to remain. On obvious passing downs, Texas chose to bring in a package that included Breckyn Hager and Jeff McCulloch. Unfortunately, that package was not used as often as Todd Orlando would have liked, mainly due to the inability to stop the run on 1st and 2nd down. Gary Johnson played on special teams but did not see any action on defense, despite being considered one of the best tacklers and run defenders on the team. Whether it’s from bad coaching the past 3 seasons or simply the inability to know an assignment, Todd Orlando has to find linebackers that give this defense at least a fighting chance in defending the run. Grade: D- Defensive Backs Tyrrell Pigrome was known as a run-first QB who had issues throwing the ball. Those issues never arose against Texas. Aside from a first quarter interception returned for a touchdown by Holton Hill, Texas was beat through the air all day. Kris Boyd got beat on numerous occasions and Holton Hill was not much better. After an injury to Pigrome, backup QB Kasim Hill converted a 3rd and 19 pass that squashed the hopes of any comeback by the Longhorns. Brandon Jones and DeShon Elliott are both going to be elite safeties, but the duo still struggles with pursuit angles and helping in the run game. Elliott seemed to play out of control at times, and whiffed on several open field tackles. Jones still needs proper coaching on how to help out in run support and properly shed off blocks. Overall, it seemed like the communication issues that plagued the Texas defensive backs much of last year were fixed, but the players simply failed to execute. Tyrrell Pigrome and Kasim Hill combined to complete 80% of their passes. If Texas plans on winning big time football games this year, they have to figure out their coverage issues before they face the likes of Baker Mayfield, Mason Rudolph, Will Grier and Sam Darnold. Grade: D+ Special Teams This was maybe the most wild special teams game I have seen in awhile. Maryland and Texas both returned blocked field goals for touchdowns, and Texas also added a punt return for a touchdown. Poona Ford blocked a kick midway through the 2nd quarter that fell right into the hands of Holton Hill, who returned it to the house. New kicker Josh Rowland did not look good in his first live game action. His kicks were low and did not have much power behind them. Rowland missed his first kick wide left before having his next kicked blocked and returned for a touchdown. The reality is, Texas does not have many options in the kicking department. Walk-on Chris Naggar has no live game experience and senior Mitchell Becker has only attempted 2 field goals in his career, both from under 25 yards. Michael Dickson looked like his normal self. The junior punted twice for 118 yards and flipped the field when he was asked to do so. In the return game, Texas lined up Devin Duvernay and Brandon Jones on kickoff returns. Both have the speed to be deadly in the return game, but blocking continues to an issue. Reggie Hemphill-Mapps served as the primary punt returner, and it looked like Texas has found its answer at that position. Hemphill-Mapps returned a punt 91 yards for a touchdown in the 3rd quarter to help get Texas back in the game. Credit Tom Herman for staying true to his word and playing starters on special teams. Malik Jefferson had a huge block that sprung Hemphill-Mapps on his return for a touchdown. It’s hard to not give a passing grade to a unit that had 2 touchdowns, but the field goal kicking and blocking on kick returns are worrisome. Grade: C

It all began with his tweet after the spring game. "Could've told my mother to save her money on the plane ticket". Half of a game after being called on account of rain, or a subtle blast to the fact he didn't sniff the field? I don't know, but I believe, when it comes to a young guy who wants his shot, it was the latter. When Buechele became the obvious nod to the future with Ehlinger on deck at QB, I knew Locksley was going to have to change positions or transfer. Then it was even more evident when Heard got moved to WR, where a stable of capable guys was already in place. Now, I don't even know what the plan is, if any for the kid. I know he never had huge expectations, but does anyone feel bad for him? I just feel like he is a perfect example of how you can be swept up in the circus that can be recruiting. It's a valid thought to wonder if he ever really knew what he was doing/expecting when he said yes to Texas and bailed on FSU. Then again, you wonder what he was told. Who knows. I'll give him this much: I don't know what it's like to be 18 and have those kinds of decisions to make with the confidence and probably somewhat arrogance that I can go somewhere and be the guy. But at the same time, how do you make such a huge decision without really looking at the reality of the situation and asking yourself where you fit in? At one point during camp, his name came up on a brief article about roster position changes, what ifs, etc. And I completely forgot the kid was on the team. I'm betting the house on Texas this Saturday and putting all my winnings on my next bet, which is news that Locksley transfers before this season ends.

Everyone knows by now, Horns @ Jayhawks kicks off at 2:30 p.m. I'll be in Lawrence by 9:30 a.m., parked in lot 54 with beer in hand by no later than 10 a.m. Who else will be making the trip? I know I had another topic started months ago about this and some of you commented/confirmed you'll be there. Since it's game week, I figure I'll ignite that convo again. Who is gonna be in Lawrence to watch Texas become bowl eligible?

"Hey, man! This Shane Buechele kid is somethin' special! And I tell ya what, man - this talent on this Texas team?! Hook 'Em Horns, man!" I don't know why, but anyone and everyone who doesn't follow this program thinks this is a realistic replacement candidate. Reasons: A.) Gruden still wants to coach, but on his terms. Meaning, it has to basically be a hand picked situation, not just any job. -Ok. I believe that theory. Most successful coaches at his age, with his resume, etc. Have that luxury. It's not a crazy concept. B.) Gruden has wanted to coach college ball, burnt out on the NFL. Runs his camp for young players -- namely QBs -- and enjoys developing guys. Tired of the NFL regiment, personable and feels like he could really recruit young kids, go into living rooms. Almost sort of has a Dabo/Jimbo feel to him. -Ok. Yeah, I suppose. C.) ESPN doesn't have the money it did when it signed him onto Monday Night Football, plus Torico is gone. -Ok. Not sure that really matters, unless the competing potential job is head coach at Texas, where he would probably make 3-to-5 times what he brings in now. However, such is the standard when he will work with 20-to-30 times the pressure and stress. So, I don't know if standing in a booth for four hours every Monday night after a week of hanging around teams really seems like something he would want to leave for everything the Texas job is. Which, while I don't agree about it being a cesspool, or any other hard reference Herbstreit gave it, I do believe there is a lot more BS that coaches have to deal with here. But it's not unwarranted. You don't want BS, it's simple: win. So, I don't know if ESPN NOT being able to pay him as much as what he makes right now when it's time for a new contract is reason enough to completely pivot and go the complete opposite direction and coach college football at Texas, where the look on his face the day he's introduced would be broken down and analyzed to predict how many wins he will have in his first season. D.) These folks who say this name think it's Texas, Alabama or USC that will pull Gruden to the college ranks. -Yeah. Water is also wet. Duh. E.) And when the name has been brought up on any platform, such as radio spots, both national or local, there's a genuine belief he wants to get back to coaching, period, that it may just be a void he wants to fill, so perhaps he isn't THAT picky about where he lands if he leaves ESPN. -Nah. No way. Not at this point in his life. And that's where I'm at. As obvious as the statement "well, it would have to be USC, or Alabama, or Texas" is, I just don't see this guy diving back into everything that coaching is, in what is quite honestly the more demanding of level of coaching: college football. So, I open this thread with these talking points I have heard, or engaged in, and I ask you all: Does the name Jon Gruden make your ears perk up? Or do you find yourself walking to the liquor cabinet in sadness, preparing to pour a strong scotch as you watch the program take 10 steps backwards? #HookEm

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.

The early spread is Notre Dame -4.5. Buying or selling? I think it's going to be a close game. Up here in Indiana, every Irish fan talks a lot about last year's 38-3 nightmare. In fact, it's all they'll talk about. I don't know if they're just not paying attention to the current rosters, trending topics coming out of each camp, or what, but they don't see to care about anything other than last year's result, ignoring the ESPN FPI almost putting this game at a 50/50 toss up. Add that to the fact Notre Dame lost huge playmakers from last season on both sides of the ball while Texas has had an entire off-season to develop and improve its young talent. I know the Irish has two proven quarterbacks, but I don't look at their roster the same way I did last year. Anyway, what say you? I think the early spread is fair, and I bet it will stay put before dropping to Notre Dame -3 by game day.

As an NFL draft nerd, I love watching tape on players going into the draft and tonight I've been watching all i can find on Vaccaro. But when watching Vaccaro, Diggs stood out the me multiple times by breaking on the ball nicely. At the same time, Josh Turner and Mykelle Thompson often delayed before breaking on the pass or made poor tackles that led to big gains. I think Quandre Diggs moving to safety is a must. He is a very smart player on the field and reads the quarterback and receivers well. We all know the difference a good safety can have on a defense. In most recent years, Earl Thomas made tons of plays back there. I don't think Diggs is quite as fast as Earl, but he definitely reads the passing game almost as well as Earl did. I also like his tackling ability better than Josh Turner, Mykelle Thompson, and Adrian Phillips. Diggs for Safety 2013.

@TheFbBrainiacs: BREAKING: Have heard from two good sources that Nick Saban to Texas is a done deal. Will be making big bucks! The website is a page devoted to ou recruiting. It also has Ryan Broyles on its staff. http://thefootballbrainiacs.com/nick-saban-to-texas-appears-to-be-a-done-deal Take it as you will.

HornSports.com's Big Mike was able to wrangle a few minutes with CBS Sports Senior College Football Analyst Bruce Feldman to talk about the Longhorn program, conference realignment and the college football playoff system. Feldman discusses his thoughts on the Patterson AD hire, coaches out there that should get a look if the head coaching job at UT becomes available, and a whole lot more. The interview is approximately 17 minutes long and was conducted on Thursday, November 7, 2013. Click the play button below to listen. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mobile listeners click the following link to listen - http://www.hornsports.com/audio/HornSports_Bruce_Feldman_Interview.mp3