Social media reacts to Texas LB Jaylan Ford being snubbed by Big 12 coaches

Big 12 coaches owe Texas linebacker Jaylan Ford an apology.

Jaylan Ford had a historically great season at linebacker. Apparently not every all-conference voter took notice.

Ford was not voted as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year for the 2022 season. The talented linebacker was toward the top of multiple statistical categories, as we noted earlier this week.

The first-year starter ranked second in the conference in tackles (108), second in interceptions (4) and first in forced fumbles (3). His well-rounded performance didn’t distract Big 12 coaches from Felix Anudike-Uzomah’s 7.5 sacks.

For context, Barryn Sorrell had 5.5 sacks and was not included on the first or second team, another snub in its own right. It was yet another of many instances Texas players did not receive due credit.

As you would imagine, the news caused on stir on social media. Here’s how those who watch the team took the news.

Looking at what Texas will face against No. 13 Kansas State

Will Howard threw for 296 yards and four touchdowns against Oklahoma State.

The Kansas State Wildcats present another huge opportunity for the Texas football program this week. They also pose a significant threat to the Longhorns’ bid for a Big 12 title appearance.

Presently, the Wildcats sit at 6-2 with one loss in conference play. Texas is currently 5-3 with two conference losses.

Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman has done a great job building a contender this season. Behind a strong defense and running game, Klieman’s team is playing as well as any other team in the conference.

K-State backup quarterback Will Howard played well in relief of an injured Adrian Martinez against Oklahoma State. Howard completed 21 of 37 pass attempts for 296 yards and four touchdowns. Whether or not he plays or Martinez returns, the Wildcats will be able to fall back on a strong running game.

Deuce Vaughn led the K-State rushing attack with 158 yards on 22 carries against Oklahoma State. He will figure to play a significant role in his team’s offensive attack against Texas.

Here are a few challenges Texas will need to account for this week.

Early 2022 Big 12 football record predictions for each team

Baylor will attempt to defend its Big 12 title.

Prior to the 2021 season, Oklahoma was the prohibitive favorite to win the national championship. Spencer Rattler was all but penciled in as the first overall pick in the NFL draft.

Fast forward one offseason. Baylor wins the Big 12 championship, Lincoln Riley and Caleb Williams leave for USC, and Rattler is now the starting quarterback for the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Oklahoma State seemingly blew its best chance at a Big 12 title appearance in 2020. The Cowboys bounced back, defeating Oklahoma, Baylor, and Texas to make their first trip to Arlington’s conference title game.

This season, Baylor will attempt to defend its title against the Cowboys and Sooners, while Texas and Kansas State will attempt to enter the mix. Here are my early Big 12 record predictions for 2022.

Texas DB Jalen Green issues statement on his targeting penalty during Kansas State game

Texas DB Jalen Green issues statement on his targeting penalty during Kansas State game

In the second half of the Longhorns’ matchup with Kansas State, Jalen Green was ejected for targeting, which kept him out the remainder of that game in addition to the first half of Texas’ upcoming matchup with Iowa State. Texas released this statement regarding the penalty on behalf of Green:

Here is the hit that got Green ejected:

This is an avoidable hit that is quite reckless, and Green deserved the ejection. The Longhorns need to tighten up and play more disciplined on defense to avoid hits like this. Texas is set to take on the Iowa State Cyclones this Saturday at 2:30 CT.