The Texas Longhorns started the season 1-4 and the seat of Charlie Strong was growing hotter. However, Texas proceeded to upset hated rival Oklahoma for the biggest win of Strong's career at Texas. With confidence from the win, Texas has hopes of finishing the season strong. Here are five things that will decide the remainder of Texas football's season.
Big Plays From Daje Johnson
Johnson has flashed big plays in the past, but needs to make them more consistently. He needs the ball in his hands several times per game, and the Texas staff must ensure he gets those touches.
Special Teams
The Longhorns must avoid the special teams miscues that cost them games against California and Oklahoma State. If the Longhorns have more gaffes, the losses will return.
Ground Game
Texas has run the ball twice as much as its thrown it, a rarity in today's pass happy college football world. Jerrod Heard's promotion to starting duties has been a huge factor in that, as he's carried it 88 times. Jonathan Gray has been the workhorse, while D'Onta Freeman has provided several big plays. Texas will lean heavily on its ground game the rest of the season and it will need it to produce.
Improved Play From The Youngsters
The Longhorns are leaning heavily on young players, from Heard (see below) to Malik Jefferson and everyone in between. A whopping 24 freshmen have seen the field this season, and they'll need to continue to improve throughout the season. That should be the case and improvement now will pay major dividends in future years.
Jerrod Heard
It's Heard's team, although Tyrone Swoopes will still contribute at times. Heard needs to continue to develop, especially as a passer. If Heard grows as the season continues, Charlie Strong and Texas will be happy. Texas will need Heard to make a few plays and not turn the ball over. If he does that, Texas will show promise this season.
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