Texas’ conference title hopes are on the line on Friday when they host Iowa State.
The Longhorns will need to be nearly flawless on offense to keep up with Iowa State’s powerful attack. The Cyclones have the nation’s top rusher in Breece Hall, but Texas has dangerous weapons of their own.
Head coach Tom Herman’s squad has had nearly three weeks of rest and is as healthy as they’ve been all season. Who are three key offensive players to keep an eye on for Texas to escape with their fourth consecutive win?
Offensive Key Players
Longhorns Wire staff each picked one key player in Texas’ crucial Big 12 matchup with the conference leaders in Iowa State.
Cami Griffin – Jake Smith, WR
This was an easy selection for me. Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger hasn’t been very accurate downfield as of late, therefore it’s crucial to have a reliable security blanket underneath. Enter Jake Smith. The sure-handed athlete was hindered by a hamstring injury early on, but as you saw against Oklahoma State — he’s one of Texas’ most dangerous weapons. Don’t be surprised if Ehlinger continues to look Smith’s way when the game is on the line.
Griffin McVeigh – Jordan Whittington, WR
Whittington has only appeared in two games this season and made a major impact against Oklahoma. He led the team in receptions and receiving yards in the losing effort. All of that was without Jake Smith playing. Combine the two together and Iowa State will not be as focused on Whittington. Texas’ two best receivers may be in the slot. Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich must find an effective way to use both.
Patrick Conn – Samuel Cosmi, OT
It’s relatively easy to pick the quarterback or a skill position player as an offensive key in this game. However, i’m going to go with Samuel Cosmi on the edge. He is tasked with protecting the blindside of senior quarterback Sam Ehlinger. Cosmi will face JaQuan Bailey from Iowa State, these two will go to war on Friday afternoon. For the Longhorns to win this game, Cosmi will need to get the better of Bailey more often than not.