Texas will fortunately have wide receiver Jake Smith and safety Caden Sterns available to play against Baylor.
Smith was expected to take over Devin Duvernay’s former role as the primary slot receiver this season. Prior to the season opener against UTEP, Smith suffered a hamstring strain during practice which sidelined him for several weeks.
Although Smith was originally expected to play in the Red River Rivalry, he re-aggravated the same hamstring in pregame warmups. However, it was reported on Saturday that he will attempt to play in Texas’ conference matchup against Baylor.
Afternoon from DKR-TMS. It appears that Texas S Caden Sterns (turf toe) and WR Jake Smith (hamstring) will both try to play today.
— Brian Davis (@BDavisAAS) October 24, 2020
Texas desperately needs Smith on the field now that Jordan Whittington is sidelined with a knee injury that required surgery.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Longhorns appear to be getting one of their top players and leaders back on the field. Sterns suffered a turf toe injury against Oklahoma two weeks ago. Although this is also a nagging injury, Sterns will attempt to play through the pain.
Texas’ second scheduled bye week was extremely beneficial for these two players to heal. Smith and Sterns are each difference makers at their respective positions.
Hopefully they can provide the spark that Texas has noticeably lacked.