The Texas Longhorns' Orange and White game has come and gone, leaving fans with a mix of excitement and questions about the upcoming season. As the team prepares for another year of Big 12 competition, here are five key takeaways from the annual spring game.
The offense showed promise, but there's still work to be done. The Orange team, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, put up 24 points in the first half, with Ewers throwing for two touchdowns. However, the White team's defense stiffened in the second half, holding the Orange to just three points. This inconsistency highlights the need for the offense to develop more depth and reliability.
Red Zone Efficiency Was a Concern
One area where the Longhorns struggled was in the red zone. Despite moving the ball well between the 20s, the offense had trouble punching it in, settling for field goals on multiple occasions. This lack of red zone efficiency will need to be addressed if the Longhorns hope to compete with the top teams in the conference.
Some Players Stepped Up, While Others Struggled
The Orange and White game provided an opportunity for players to make a case for themselves in the eyes of the coaching staff. Some, like wide receiver Xavier Worthy, took advantage of the chance, hauling in several big catches. Others, like running back Roschon Johnson, struggled to make an impact, totaling just 22 yards on the ground. As the team moves forward, it will be interesting to see which players can build on their spring performances.
Defensive Line Depth Remains a Question Mark
While the Longhorns' defensive line showed flashes of brilliance, particularly from end Ovie Oghoufo, the unit's overall depth remains a concern. With several key contributors from last season's team gone, the coaching staff will need to find ways to replace that production. The Orange and White game did little to alleviate these concerns, as the White team's offense was able to move the ball with relative ease at times.
Special Teams Played a Crucial Role
Special teams often fly under the radar, but they played a significant role in the Orange and White game. Kicker Bert Auburn made a pair of field goals, including a 47-yarder, to help the Orange team build an early lead. Meanwhile, the White team's kickoff coverage unit struggled to contain the Orange returners, allowing several big gains. As the season approaches, the Longhorns will need to find consistency in this phase of the game.
Coaching Staff Has Plenty to Work On
With the Orange and White game in the books, the Longhorns' coaching staff has a wealth of information to digest and work on before the season kicks off. From addressing the team's red zone woes to developing depth along the defensive line, there's no shortage of challenges to overcome. As the team heads into the summer, it will be interesting to see how they respond to these challenges and prepare for the rigors of the Big 12 season.
What's Next for the Longhorns?
As the Longhorns break for the summer, fans will have to wait a few months to see how the team responds to the challenges highlighted in the Orange and White game. With a mix of returning talent and new faces, there's reason for optimism in Austin. However, it's clear that the coaching staff has plenty of work to do before the season kicks off.
Getting Ready for the Season
As the summer months approach, fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the new season. With the Orange and White game behind us, it's time to start looking forward to the Longhorns' opener against Louisiana-Monroe. Will the team be able to build on the momentum from last season, or will they take a step back? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the road to the Big 12 Championship will be a long and challenging one.
Join the Conversation
The Orange and White game may be over, but the conversation is just getting started. Share your thoughts on the game and the Longhorns' chances this season in the comments below. What did you take away from the game, and what are your expectations for the team moving forward? Let's keep the discussion going!
What was the final score of the Orange and White game?
+The final score was Orange 24, White 17.
Who was the standout player in the Orange and White game?
+Wide receiver Xavier Worthy had a strong performance, hauling in several big catches.
What is the Longhorns' first game of the season?
+The Longhorns open their season against Louisiana-Monroe.