Earlier this week, Texas head coach Tom Herman appeared optimistic that wide receiver Jake Smith would be available for Texas Tech.
Smith suffered a hamstring strain during practice leading up to the season opener against UTEP. Jordan Whittington started at the slot position in Smith’s absence, but unfortunately Whittington went down with a knee injury during the first half of play.
It didn’t cause a major sense of worry considering Herman stated Smith would starting running this week. On the flip side, it’s not smart to rush back one of your top receivers if he is not completely healthy. Muscle strains can be lingering, fragile injuries that can worsen and sideline a player for the rest of the season if not handled properly.
On Thursday, Horns247 reported that Smith has been ruled out for Texas’ conference opener in Lubbock.
Sources: #Texas WR Jake Smith out for #TexasTech game. https://t.co/8tl9jVtPyf pic.twitter.com/iI5U8n8CqA
— Horns247 (@Horns247) September 24, 2020
Walk-on Kai Money and transfer Brenden Schooler are now in line to produce in the slot position with both Smith and Whittington unavailable due to injuries.
Expect Texas to use more 12-personnel with their versatile tight ends to lessen the blow.