What to watch for
With the final regular season game on the horizon for the Texas Longhorns, each staff member highlights what they are looking for in the final act of the 2020 season.
Cami Griffin
This matchup doesn’t look attractive on paper, but there’s still plenty to watch for if you’re a Texas fan. After a breakout game last week from both running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson, I’m curious to see if they can string together another solid performance. The Longhorns desperately need consistency and production at that position moving forward, especially considering there will likely be a new signal caller next year.
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Head coach Tom Herman hasn’t used Robinson as much as one would have hoped this season. He’s clearly shown that he can handle a significant number of carries and continues to provide a boost for this offense each time he steps on to the field. Could the Kansas matchup be a preview of what’s to come at that position for next season?
Griffin McVeigh
Texas’ offense thrived last week with Mike Yurcich. Going into Kansas week, a dominant performance from the defense would be nice to see. Outside of Caden Sterns and Joseph Ossai, there is a good chance a chunk of Chris Ash’s unit returns in 2021. With a couple of young guys starting to get playing time, watching them perform on the field would build confidence going into a pivotal season.
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True freshman Jerrin Thompson was the star of the show last week with his first career interception. Juwan Mitchell will be out for the first half due to a targeting penalty against Kansas State. Underclassmen will hopefully have the ability to prove their worth against an 0-9 Jayhawk team.
Patrick Conn
Plain and simple, it’s quarterback Sam Ehlinger. It could be the final conference game for the senior and what a career it’s been. It may not have ended up being what some thought with a Big 12 Championship, but you can’t help but admire what he has done. He has been the ultimate teammate, leader, and competitor for this football team. If he is planning on leaving for the NFL after this season, one should hope that he goes out with a bang.
He is currently tied with Landry Jones with 126 total touchdowns. That makes him the No. 4 player on the all-time Big 12 Conference list. He is also just six behind Colt McCoy. Let No. 11 ride out on top and get ready for their bowl game.
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