The defense was coming into its shoes
Outside of the season opener against UTEP, it was a rough beginning under Chris Ash. Texas was giving up an average of 47.3 points per game in their first Big 12 games. Texas Tech and Oklahoma were both able to scorch Ash’s defense, putting up 50 burgers. It seemed as if another season of teams running wild on the Longhorns was unfolding in front of our eyes.
Then, things changed after the Red River Shootout loss and a bye week. Ash’s defense became the strong suit and was winning games for Texas while the offense struggled. From Baylor to the Alamo Bowl win over Colorado, the defense only gave up 23.3 points per game. Opponents were having a significantly harder time running the ball, averaging just under 136 yards per game.
It took three or four games but Ash really showed what his defense can do against Big 12 offenses with a little bit of time. Using the ‘no spring or summer camp’ excuse can seem like an easy cop-out. However, the first-year defensive coordinator adapted over the season and turned the Longhorns’ defense into one of the best in the conference. He deserves to prove he can do it consistently.