For the first time in his career, Longhorns defensive back Andrew Mukaba earned the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week award on Tuesday. In the Longhorns win over Michigan on Saturday, Mukuba was a key piece to a Texas defense that only allowed 12 points.
Against the Wolverines, Mukuba recorded his first career interception as a Longhorn and added four tackles to his resume. He also registered two pass-breakups and made life difficult for the Wolverines receivers all afternoon. Against a ranked team, Mukuba took his game to another level.
Really nice rep from Andrew Mukuba running the alley. Works outside-in + blows the RB off his feet.
Textbook from one of the top safeties in the ‘25 class. pic.twitter.com/hSoL4VYWP5
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) September 7, 2024
As Texas improved to 2-0, the defense limited the defending national champions to 284 yards. The Longhorns also held the Wolverines to 80 rushing yards and kept them off the scoreboard for most of the game. That allowed Quinn Ewers and his weapons to build a lead that Michigan could not overcome.
Through two games, Mukaba has made an instant impact in his new program. The Clemson transfer has recorded six tackles and thrived regardless of the opponent. He brings valuable veteran leadership to a Longhorns secondary that struggled last year.
Texas’ Mukuba Named Thorpe Award National DB of the Week, Including Morgan State's Decius as Aeneas Williams Award HBCU DB of the Week 🏈
Mukuba recorded his first interception, four total tackles and two pass break-ups for the Longhorns in a 31-12 road win over Michigan.… pic.twitter.com/04PIBmsebh
— Paycom Jim Thorpe Award (@jimthorpeaward) September 10, 2024
On Saturday, Mukuba showed just how impactful he can be against one of the best teams in the country. The Longhorns will need to continue for the rest of the season.