True freshman offensive lineman Kelvin Banks got the nod to start Texas’ opener vs UL Monroe at left tackle.
The former five-star played like a veteran in his first career college game. Banks graded out as the top pass protector on the Texas offense and made a notable difference in the run game as well.
Banks’ performance caught the attention of those around the country. On3 Sports named Banks as one of the top true freshmen from college football Week 1.
Texas signed the nation’s top offensive line class in the 2022 cycle. Kelvin Banks looks like the gem of the group early on. The true freshman started at left tackle in the Longhorns’ opening win over UL-Monroe. Banks was Texas’ best offensive lineman on the day, surrendering zero sacks, hits or pressures in 26 pass blocking attempts, according to Pro Football Focus. The Humble (Texas) Summer Creek product also opened a crease on a touchdown run in the second quarter.
Banks faces a tough test this weekend as the Longhorns host Alabama for a primer nonconference matchup. Alabama edge rushers Will Anderson and Dallas Turner are two of the most dangerous defensive players in the nation. Banks and the Horns’ offensive line need to slow down the dynamic Crimson Tide pass rush or Quinn Ewers will be in store for a long day.
[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbz52bnpekkafqb player_id=none image=https://longhornswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]
Contact/Follow us @LonghornsWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas news, notes and opinions.