Five reasons Texas’ struggles will continue this season

After some optimism, there is always room for pessimism. Here are five reasons Texas will continue its struggles during the 2021 season:

Texas fans have been in this situation before. An offseason full of expectations, hype, and wishful thinking. Then, once the season begins, disappointment and downright embarrassment take place. Since the 2010 season, it has been a constant cycle.

Steve Sarkisian has taken over and will be hoping to change the narrative surrounding the program. It will be easier said than done, especially with how the Big 12 opponents are expected to fair this season.

After some optimism surrounding Sarkisian’s first season, there is always room for pessimism. Plenty of problems are still in front of Texas, even with the newfound hope. Here are five reasons Texas will continue its decade long struggles during the 2021 season:

Longhorns Profile Snapshot: No. 46 Joesph Ossai

LonghornsWire will be looking at each scholarship player listed on the Texas roster. Today, we will be looking at junior Jack Joseph Ossai.

Going into the 2020 football season, LonghornsWire will be looking at each scholarship player listed on the Texas roster.

Over the summer, each profile will cover where the player is from, how recruiting websites rated them coming out of high school, and what role they will play for Tom Herman this season.

Today, we will be looking at junior Jack Joseph Ossai.

Joseph Ossai, Jack

(Tim Warner/Getty Images)

Height: 6-4 / Weight: 253

Class: Junior

Hometown: Conroe, Texas

High School: Oak Ridge

HS ranking (247Sports): Four-star / No. 191 overall / No. 12 position / No. 18 in-state

HS ranking (Rivals): Four-star / No. 14 position / No. 31 in-state

Analysis: In 2019, Joesph Ossai led Texas in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. All of this was while he was playing outside linebacker. After the hiring of Chris Ash in the offseason, Ossai will be switching to the Jack position and will be primarily rushing the passer.

Ossai showed a glimpse of what was to come next season in the Alamo Bowl win against Utah. He recorded nine tackles, six which were for a loss, and added three sacks, a season-high. On most plays, the sophomore was in the backfield causing havoc.

If the Utah game translates into a full season, Texas’ pass rush could become one of the best in the Big 12. Ash has a history working with great pass rushers during his times at Ohio State and Wisconsin. If he can continue to develop Ossai, the Jack will trend towards a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.

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