Texas Longhorns vs Iowa State Cyclones: First quarter recap

At the end of the first quarter, the Longhorns lead the Cyclones 13-7. Here is the first quarter recap from Friday’s Big 12 showdown.

At the end of the first quarter, the Texas Longhorns lead the Iowa State Cyclones, 13-7.

Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich has finally decided to run the ball, giving running back Bijan Robinson a heavy load in the first quarter. The true freshman currently has 10 carries for 43 yards. Quarterback Sam Ehlinger has also targeted Robinson but has not connected.

Speaking of Ehlinger, he is off to a hot start as well. The senior has attempted seven passes, completing four of them for 121 yards. Tarik Black (who fumbled), Brennan Eagles, and Jordan Whittington all have receptions.

Ehlinger has been efficient on the ground as well. He has attempted four runs for a total of 35 yards. One was the 17-yard touchdown rush to put Texas up 10-0.

Defensively, Chris Ash’s unit got off to a solid start, forcing two three and outs. However, penalties hurt the Longhorns on the second drive. A 15-yard unnecessary roughness on Jacoby Jones followed by offsides on Jospeh Ossai aided Iowa State’s only touchdown of the day.

Special teams have been nearly flawless through the opening period as well. Cameron Dicker has drilled both of his field goals. The junior has connected from 21 and 42 yards. Dicker has not had to come in for punting duties yet.

Texas must keep its foot on the gas offensively with a healthy dose of Robinson. The play-action shots downfield to Eagles and Joshua Moore will be there whenever they want.

Defensively, outside of the penalties, it has been a solid performance. Keeping Breece Hall to one yard has to be checked off as a win. Get rid of the mental errors and Texas will be successful.

First-quarter stats

Sam Ehlinger: Four of eight for 121 yards. Four carries for 35 yards, one touchdown.

Bijan Robinson: 10 carries for 43 yards

Brennan Eagles: Two receptions for 77 yards

Breece Hall: Three carries for seven yards

Highlights