Texas focuses on the run game
When Texas decided to run the ball against TCU, it was wildly successful, averaging 6.3 yards per carry. Roschon Johnson had 63 yards on five carries before dealing with an injury. Even Sam Ehlinger had success scrambling rushing for 49 yards.
On the flip side, Oklahoma’s run defense has been stellar. Not something you hear very often. Missouri State and Kansas State ran for a combined 120 yards before Iowa State and Breece Hall opened the Sooners up a bit more with 135 yards. Keaontay Ingram, Johnson, and Bijan Robinson will need to emulate the Cyclones’ performance.
Going into the season, running back was the Longhorns’ deepest offensive position. Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich has struggled to take the ball out of Ehlinger’s hands and give it to his explosive backs. Texas will eventually need to rely on its senior quarterback but needs to let their playmaking running back do their thing.
Barring injury setbacks, Ingram and Johnson need a heavy dose of touches. Big and explosive plays on the ground would make a major difference.