Jacob Cowing posses big play ability
Redshirt sophomore quarterback Gavin Hardison got the starting nod for the Miners, making his third career appearance for UTEP. Early in the first game of the season, Hardison had formed a great connection with sophomore wide receiver Jacob Cowing.
A final state line of seven catches for 116 yards is impressive enough. However, when you look in the scenarios where Cowing made plays, Texas is going to need to circle his name defensively.
Cowing kept the chains moving for UTEP three different times, twice on third down and once on fourth. One of his third-down pickups came on a third and 19. As for the fourth-down conversion, it eventually led to the touchdown that began the Miners’ comeback from 14-3 down.
All of this is without his game-high 30-yard reception.
Texas’ secondary could be considered the strength of the defense, especially the cornerbacks. Cowing will line up inside and outside, providing matchups all over the field. When UTEP is in dire need of a big play, the Longhorns need to make sure Cowing is covered.