Brennan Eagles leads group of offensive trio that are key for the Longhorns

These three offensive players will be paramount for the Texas Longhorns to leave Manhattan with a victory on Saturday.

Quarterback Sam Ehlinger

AP Photo/Eric Gay

When Sam Ehlinger steps onto the field this Saturday, he will be without Samuel Cosmi protecting his blindside. Who will replace him is a bit murky at this point. The latest depth chart showed three options at offensive tackle on both sides. Given Cosmi’s decision, Derek Kerstetter‘s injury, and the poor play from the right side of the offensive line it appears to be a bad situation for Sam.

Ehlinger will likely need to use his legs more than ever in this game. Christian Jones has been the projected starter at left tackle. Jones has allowed the 13th most quarterback pressures this season. That also ranked as the 2nd worst mark in the conference. Ehlinger is used to running with the ball and he will likely need to do it again.

As far as passing goes, Sam needs to re-establish the connection he had with Brennan Eagles against Iowa State. When he targeted Eagles down the field, big things happened for the Longhorns offense. Sam needs to find Brennan early and often.