The Texas Longhorns football team wrapped up their spring practice schedule with the annual Orange-White spring game, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect from the team in the upcoming season. Here are five key takeaways from the game:
Firstly, the quarterback battle is far from over. Junior quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who started several games last season, and sophomore Casey Thompson, who saw limited action in 2018, both had their moments in the spring game. Ehlinger threw for 151 yards and a touchdown, while Thompson completed 9 of 15 passes for 129 yards and a score. However, neither quarterback was able to separate themselves from the other, leaving the starting job up for grabs heading into fall camp.
Quarterback Battle Heating Up
The quarterback competition is likely to continue into the summer, with both Ehlinger and Thompson expected to push each other for the starting job. Coach Tom Herman has stated that he will not name a starter until the team's first game of the season, giving both quarterbacks ample opportunity to prove themselves.
Secondly, the Longhorns' receiving corps looks deep and talented. Sophomore wide receiver Brennan Eagles hauled in four passes for 85 yards and a touchdown, while freshman Jordan Whittington caught three passes for 53 yards. The team also got contributions from several other receivers, including senior Devin Duvernay and sophomore Al'Vonte Woodard.
Receiving Corps Looks Deep and Talented
The Longhorns' receiving corps has the potential to be one of the best in the Big 12, with several talented players vying for playing time. Eagles, Whittington, and Duvernay all have the potential to be impact players for the team, and Woodard's size and speed make him a threat in the red zone.
Thirdly, the defense looked stout against the run. The Longhorns held the offense to just 55 yards rushing on 25 attempts, with junior defensive tackle Keondre Coburn and senior defensive end Malcolm Roach leading the way. The team also got contributions from several other defensive players, including sophomore linebacker Joseph Ossai and junior safety Caden Sterns.
Defense Looks Stout Against the Run
The Longhorns' defense has the potential to be one of the best in the Big 12, with several talented players returning from last season. Coburn and Roach provide a strong presence on the defensive line, while Ossai and Sterns are playmakers in the secondary.
Fourthly, the special teams unit looks improved. Junior kicker Cameron Dicker connected on a 55-yard field goal, while sophomore punter Chris Naggar averaged 43 yards per punt. The team also got a spark from freshman return specialist Jake Smith, who returned a punt 25 yards.
Special Teams Unit Looks Improved
The Longhorns' special teams unit has been a weakness in recent years, but it looks like the team has made some significant improvements. Dicker's leg strength and accuracy give the team a reliable kicker, while Naggar's punting ability can help flip field position. Smith's speed and elusiveness make him a threat in the return game.
Lastly, the team's overall energy and enthusiasm were palpable. The Longhorns played with a sense of urgency and passion, which is a good sign heading into the summer. The team's chemistry and camaraderie were also on display, with several players celebrating with each other after big plays.
Team Energy and Enthusiasm Were Palpable
The Longhorns' energy and enthusiasm were a welcome sight for fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the start of the season. The team's chemistry and camaraderie are essential components of a successful season, and it looks like the Longhorns have made some significant strides in these areas.
In conclusion, the Texas Longhorns football team's spring game provided several key takeaways for fans. The quarterback battle is far from over, the receiving corps looks deep and talented, the defense looks stout against the run, the special teams unit looks improved, and the team's overall energy and enthusiasm were palpable.
The Longhorns will now head into the summer with a sense of optimism and excitement, knowing that they have the potential to make some noise in the Big 12. With several talented players returning from last season and a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm, the Longhorns are poised for a big season.
If you're a fan of the Texas Longhorns, be sure to share your thoughts on the spring game in the comments section below. What were your biggest takeaways from the game? Do you think the Longhorns have what it takes to make a deep run in the Big 12?
What was the outcome of the Texas Longhorns football spring game?
+The Texas Longhorns football spring game ended with the Orange team defeating the White team 14-7.
Who are the top candidates for the starting quarterback job?
+The top candidates for the starting quarterback job are junior Sam Ehlinger and sophomore Casey Thompson.
What was the standout unit for the Longhorns in the spring game?
+The standout unit for the Longhorns in the spring game was the defense, which held the offense to just 55 yards rushing on 25 attempts.