Three things Texas needs to improve on against Rice

Texas was blatantly exposed against Arkansas and needs a big bounce back performance from these three groups.

Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

Texas Offensive Line

This should come as no surprise, as both Louisiana and Arkansas were able to dismantle the Texas offensive line and get pressure on the quarterback or disrupt run plays. Through two games, Texas quarterbacks have been sacked a total of six times, and it would likely be more if Card didn’t force throws and Thompson did not evade the pressure as well as he has. A very concerning stat from the Arkansas game, was the fact that in 10 carries to the left side of the line, Texas gained a total of nine yards.

I firmly believe that one of the main reasons that Thompson was given the nod to start was due to the fact he was much better at making plays when the offensive line blocked no one. Although the line was consistently getting beat by a three-man rush, Sarkisian expressed that they need more time together. If this group cannot step it up against Rice, who is giving up an average of 383 yards per game, there is no hope for them. I applaud Sarkisian and Kyle Flood for not giving up on them this early on in the season, but they have been nothing but a liability.