To start the game, Texas won the toss and elected to receive. Putting Sam Ehlinger and the offense on the field immediately, the Longhorns started out strong with a deep shot to Collin Johnson for 34 yards down the middle.
From that point on, Keaontay Ingram was solid in the run game, getting Texas down to the Utah 10 yard line. On third down, Ehlinger got away with a throw, as Utah more than likely should have had a pick-six.
Cameron Dicker hit a 29-yard field goal to put Texas up 3-0.
With Utah getting the ball for the first time, they got a first down via a Tyler Huntley throw to Cole Fotheringham on their first play. Texas forced a punt three plays later after stuffing running back Zach Moss and quarterback Tyler Huntley.
Texas got the ball back after a Utah punt and was not able to do much. Only gaining a first down through a Ute penalty, second and third down was dominated by the Utah defensive line, getting to Ingram and Ehlinger behind the line of scrimmage.
Zach Moss started to do Zach Moss type things for the Utes to open up their second drive, gaining 11 yards on the first two plays. Utah went to the passing game after that but found little success. Devonta’e Henry dropped a swing pass from Huntley that could have gone a long way. The Longhorn defense continued their strong start, forcing another punt.
Roschon Johnson got in the action to start the third drive, getting 21 yards throughout the entire drive. Texas could not capitalize on his gains though, punting for the second time after a Brennan Eagles screen pass forced a 4th and 11.
After getting away with a field goal on their first drive, Texas is lucky to be up 3-0 in this game. The defense has been outstanding so far, limiting Tyler Huntley to what he can do in the passing game. If they continue to play this way throughout the entire game, the offense will have a great chance to win Tom Herman’s third consecutive bowl game.
Texas stats
Sam Ehlinger: 2-6 33 yards
Keaontay Ingram: Five rushes, 20 yards
Roschon Johnson: Three rushes, 21 yards
Collin Johnson: One catch, 34 yards
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