Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian spoke with the media on Thursday and touched on a variety of topics.
While many were focused on Sarkisian’s decision on whether or not to name a starting quarterback, which he did not do, the first-year head coach did offer praise to a few particular players.
The first player that Sarkisian spoke highly of was Notre Dame transfer Oview Oghoufo. He’s expected to play the EDGE role in Pete Kwiatkowski’s defense and is currently fighting for a starting role. At the very least, you can expect him to be an impact player this season for the Longhorns.
“I think the one guy who’s really jumped out to me has been Ovie,” Sarkisian said. “He’s a physical guy, explosive, he plays hard. He’s smart. He’s got great work ethic, so he’s probably the first guy that jumps out.”
Sarkisian also brought up another defensive player in safety Brenden Schooler. After the former coaching staff switched Schooler to wide receiver for the 2020 season, he’s now operating as one of Texas’ top defensive backs under Sarkisian’s staff and looks much more comfortable. Schooler is expected to be a quality starter alongside B.J. Foster this year.
“Schooler is a valuable piece of the puzzle for the team on defense and on special teams. He has a really high football IQ,” Sarkisian said.
When defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski spoke with the media roughly a week ago, Oghoufo and Schooler were two names that he signaled out as potential difference makers on defense this season.
The duo is obviously making great impression on the new coaching staff and should provide a boost to Texas’ defensive unit this season.