The Texas Longhorns just faced the No. 1 scoring defense in the Big 12 Conference on Saturday. On deck this week is No. 2, it doesn’t much easier for this one.
After putting up 41 points the Oklahoma State Cowboys defense, the next test is just big. Against Oklahoma State, the offense struggled for much of the game. Had it not been for Chris Ash’s unit forcing four turnovers, the game probably has a much different outcome.
The West Virginia defense rankings
| WVU Defense | Stats | Big 12 Rank | FBS Rank |
| Scoring | 19.8 PPG | 2nd | 19th |
| Rushing | 97.8 YPG | 1st | 10th |
| Passing | 157.8 YPG | 1st | 5th |
| Total | 255.7 YPG | 1st | 4th |
How does the Longhorns offense match up?
| UT Offense | Stats | Big 12 Rank | FBS Rank |
| Scoring | 44.3 PPG | 1st | 8th |
| Rushing | 165.3 YPG | 5th | 57th |
| Passing | 284.2 YPG | 3rd | 25th |
| Total | 449.5 YPG | 3rd | 23rd |
The big question is surrounding the offense for Texas. Can they do enough against one of the best defenses not just in the conference but the country. While Oklahoma State possesses a formidable defense, West Virginia might have a better defensive front that features Dante Stills, Darius Stills and Tony Fields.
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According to Pro Football Focus, Dante and Darius Stills have combined for 26 quarterback pressures. That includes five quarterback hits and 15 hurries. The Longhorns offensive line has allowed a total of 88 pressures on the quarterback Sam Ehlinger. Of the total pressures, a combined 37 have come from the right side of the offensive line. Christian Jones and Denzel Okafor will need to be on their “A” game. Up to this point they have pressure on 13% of dropbacks.
This defense doesn’t give you many breaks either. The Stills are two of the top eight players in terms of total snaps. Against Kansas State, Darius played 53 of 62 total snaps. The Longhorns will stick to the run, they have shown that through six games. Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich might need to get creative to run against one of the best fronts in the country.
To have success on offense, the Longhorns need to find a way to neutralize the Stills brothers.
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