The Texas Longhorns will be looking for a new slot receiver in 2020. Jake Smith has entered the conversation. Smith finished a freshman season as the team’s fourth-leading receiver in yards and second in touchdowns. He tied with Brennan Eagles with six touchdowns. Smith appeared in nine games for the Longhorns.
Texas beats Tx Tech 49-24 to finish the regular season 7-5.
Good to see some #HookEm young guns shine in the finale.
Roschon Johnson: 23-107, 3 TD's
Jake Smith: 3-51, TD
Ol' reliable Sam Ehlinger: 348 pass, 88 rush, 3 TD's #TTUvsTEX pic.twitter.com/zxU60qQBTv— Dennis de la Pena (@dennisonfox7) November 29, 2019
Jake Smith will likely be first in line to fill the void left by Devin Duvernay. Smith has quickness off the line and in the open field, he can be a handful. Smith can win off the line anywhere on the field, he also has experience as a ball carrier during his high school career. The former Gatorade Player of the Year is a dynamic option for the Longhorns offense.
Off the snap, he shows ability to create separation with quick footwork and his shiftiness. Not someone who is an easy cover for opposing defenders. He can win with underneath routes and attacking defenses up the seams. With his acceleration, Smith is a a player who can take a simple pass underneath and make a house call. He puts pressure on defenses to make plays in the open field.
Smith is as reliable as they come with his ability to come down with the ball in difficult situations. Smith gained valuable experience during the 2019 season and already has a rapport with quarterback Sam Ehlinger. With both being on the same page, expect for Smith to be one of the top two receivers for Texas in 2020.