Recruiting Thread 2018
- Thread starter Iitbhorn3
- Start date
Yeah I don't buy ANY kids decision until it's signed, sealed ( or faxed) and delivered.
Per EJ @ 247
— As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, LSU is prepared to make a run at Texas cornerback commit Jalen Green. And it looks like the Tigers’ push has already started. LSU has been in frequent communication with Green and is working hard on getting him on campus for an official visit. Green has a longstanding relationship with LSU and really likes Corey Raymond's track record with DBs. It actually wouldn't surprise me if he does make it to LSU for an OV. However, I think Green will end up sticking with Texas even if the Longhorns land five-star corner Anthony Cook. Still, this is definitely a situation to monitor.
— LSU isn’t the only school that has reached out to Green. Alabama has been in contact as week. In fact, Green’s father told me that Alabama checks in regularly and is also looking to get him on campus for an official visit. However, I think LSU is by far the biggest threat to pull him away from Texas.
— Green’s father made it seem like his son was going to honor his commitment to Texas. He talked at length about the great job cornerbacks coach Jason Washington did in the spring building a relationship with the family. The Green family loves Washington’s personality and how genuine he is. In fact, their relationship with Washington is what is keeping Green so solid. Washington, is up for Recruiter of the Year, has done a tremendous job with this recruitment.
— As far as his health is concerned, Green is still recovering from his broken collarbone and has not been cleared to return. Green is set to make a return visit to the doctor and is hoping to return during the area round of the playoffs if Houston Heights is still in it. But I spoke to Green’s head coach, and he thinks it might be best to just hold Green out for the remainder of the year.
— As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, LSU is prepared to make a run at Texas cornerback commit Jalen Green. And it looks like the Tigers’ push has already started. LSU has been in frequent communication with Green and is working hard on getting him on campus for an official visit. Green has a longstanding relationship with LSU and really likes Corey Raymond's track record with DBs. It actually wouldn't surprise me if he does make it to LSU for an OV. However, I think Green will end up sticking with Texas even if the Longhorns land five-star corner Anthony Cook. Still, this is definitely a situation to monitor.
— LSU isn’t the only school that has reached out to Green. Alabama has been in contact as week. In fact, Green’s father told me that Alabama checks in regularly and is also looking to get him on campus for an official visit. However, I think LSU is by far the biggest threat to pull him away from Texas.
— Green’s father made it seem like his son was going to honor his commitment to Texas. He talked at length about the great job cornerbacks coach Jason Washington did in the spring building a relationship with the family. The Green family loves Washington’s personality and how genuine he is. In fact, their relationship with Washington is what is keeping Green so solid. Washington, is up for Recruiter of the Year, has done a tremendous job with this recruitment.
— As far as his health is concerned, Green is still recovering from his broken collarbone and has not been cleared to return. Green is set to make a return visit to the doctor and is hoping to return during the area round of the playoffs if Houston Heights is still in it. But I spoke to Green’s head coach, and he thinks it might be best to just hold Green out for the remainder of the year.
I think its great he may end up a Longhorn, but I'd sure like to hear some positive vibes on a few OL and D linemen.
Agree. This is a horrible year in state at both positions unfortunately. It's not a coincidence that the weakest unit on our team is the position this state doesn't have a lot depth in year end year out.
This could turn out to be a key recruiting weekend, with the Longhorns set to host a handful of key official visitors, including a couple Rivals100 members.
A preview of the players who have confirmed they’ll be in for the game/official visits …
Official visits
WR Terrace Marshall Jr. – It’s never going to be easy to pull elite talent out of the state of Louisiana, particularly players who have a genuine interest in LSU like Marshall does, but Texas will take its shot with Marshall this weekend. The five-star receiver has visited UT previously and really does like the Texas staff and what UT has to offer. If Texas can sell Marshall on the opportunity he’d have to be an impact player from day one and the idea of helping the program return to national prominence, the Longhorns have a puncher’s chance. Again, it won’t be easy, but Marshall’s interest in Texas is genuine.
TE Luke Ford – The nation’s top tight end prospect, this weekend will be Ford’s first official visit. The Carterville (IL) product took an unofficial visit to UT over the summer and really did like what he saw. Texas has ground to make up on some SEC schools, including Georgia and Alabama, but Ford has to be licking his chops at the opportunity for playing time that Texas presents. This one’s a bit of an uphill climb, but Texas will swing for the fences this weekend.
LB DaShaun White – The Texas A&M commitment picked up a UT offer in October and he’s pretty much down to Texas, OU and A&M. He remains committed to the Aggies, but if A&M makes a change with its coaching staff, all bets are off with this one. He did visit Oklahoma a couple weeks ago and the Sooners made a very strong impression.
Unofficial visits
WR Al’Vonte Woodard
WR Brennan Eagles
OL Reese Moore
DT Josh Landry
DT Moro Ojomo
LB Byron Hobbs
DB B.J. Foster
DB Jalen Green
(Suchomel)
******
Richland LB DaShaun White remains committed to Texas A&M, but he continues to keep a close eye on the Aggies’ coaching situation while taking visits to OU and Texas. White visited Oklahoma when the Sooners hosted Texas Tech a couple weekends ago, and he’ll be in Austin this weekend for his UT official visit. Texas A&M is pushing for a December visit from White.
White has stayed in close contact with the UT staff ever since picking up his offer in early October, and he spoke with Texas DC Todd Orlando late last week to set up his official visit. He’s ready to get a closer look at the program and catch up with some of his friends.
“I really want to get around a lot of the recruits actually from this class,” White said. “I know a lot of those guys. If I did decide to go there, those would be the guys I get after it with the most.
“I feel like I know the coaches well, but I don’t know a lot of those guys from the defense. I don’t know how their defense kind of vibes. I was (in Dallas) for the OU game, but you only can get so much out of one game.”
White will be joined by his mother on this weekend’s visit. He remains committed to Texas A&M, but it does sound like he’s genuinely torn on his options. Ultimately, he said his choice will come down to “kind of a gut feel.”
“It will depend a lot on how comfortable I feel around everyone. It would be a place I’ll be at for four years. I have a lot of opportunities to play some big ball with some really good coaches. What will be the difference, how much I’m able to bond with these guys,” White said. “I think my relationship with my coaches now kind of takes me to the next level, so I’m kind of looking for that.”
Behind the scenes, there’s been talk that White may have been close to flipping his commitment to Oklahoma following his recent official visit. But the standout linebacker has stuck to his plan to see what happens with the A&M staff before making any final decisions. He did say that the OU visit made a very strong impression.
“It was really good. I’ve been there about 100 times I feel like. But even though this was my sixth or seventh visit, I feel like I got something productive out of it,” White said. “I got a good feel for it, feel for the recruits. It was a good time.”
If A&M does make a coaching change, expect White to officially open up his recruitment. If there’s a change, White said A&M may remain in consideration but he’d have to cross that bridge when he got to it. Most likely, his choice would come down to Texas or OU. Heading into this weekend, it’s a pretty tight race, with OU holding the slightest of edges.
“It is pretty close now. OU would have had the initial lead just because they’ve been in the game for longer, but I feel like depending on this visit, things could possibly change but we’ll see.” (Suchomel)
******
Las Vegas Bishop Gorman DE Adam Plant doesn’t have a Texas offer yet, but he is planning to take a Texas official visit and is hopeful a UT offer will be presented at that time, if not before. If Texas does offer, the Longhorns will immediately move into the driver’s seat.
“I’ve been talking to coach (Oscar) Giles since about February,” Plant said. “I have a great relationship with him and the rest of the coaching staff. I plan on taking my visit there sometime in late November or early December. If they were to offer they would be my top school.”
A former Arizona commitment, Plant said he felt he rushed into that decision so he decided to open his recruitment over the summer. As for Texas and what would push UT out in front if the Longhorns were to offer, Plant said he’s just a fan of what he knows about the Texas program.
“I love Texas, just the atmosphere of the school, it’s a real religious football-based town,” Plant said. “I know I’d be coached great, not just in football but after life. It’s a great education.”
Plant, who goes 6-6 and 260 pounds, said it’s his understanding that the coaches want to see him in person to size him up before considering an offer.
“If they like what they see then they’ll offer,” Plant said.
Arizona, UCLA and USC are other schools being considered for a visit. The plan is for UT to be his first visit, and if things go well on that trip, Plant didn’t rule out the possibility of giving the Longhorns a commitment and shutting it down.
“If I really like it at that time, there’s a possibility I would go ahead and commit,” Plant said.
Plant said he and Giles talk every week or two and the two have developed a very good relationship. As for what Plant brings to the table …
“I feel I’m a great motor guy, good pass rusher. Most players only have one key, but I feel I play the run and rush the passer well,” Plant said. “I feel I’m a great leader, great character, I work hard. There are a few things I can still work on – my bull rush a little bit, getting faster and stronger over the years.” (Suchomel)
******
Will it be Texas or Texas A&M for defensive end Joseph Ossai?
After Ossai’s UT official visit in early October, this one felt like it may have been trending UT’s way. After Ossai took an A&M official visit last weekend, it’s now too close to call.
“It sounds like it went really well, they blew him away,” one source said. “He was talking about doing a decision as early as this week but sounds like that may be delayed.
“A&M feels pretty good coming out of last weekend.”
The wildcard in this one, like a few others, could be Kevin Sumlin’s situation at Texas A&M.
“The big question is how much all the speculation (with Sumlin’s job) will impact Ossai,” the source said.
A preview of the players who have confirmed they’ll be in for the game/official visits …
Official visits
WR Terrace Marshall Jr. – It’s never going to be easy to pull elite talent out of the state of Louisiana, particularly players who have a genuine interest in LSU like Marshall does, but Texas will take its shot with Marshall this weekend. The five-star receiver has visited UT previously and really does like the Texas staff and what UT has to offer. If Texas can sell Marshall on the opportunity he’d have to be an impact player from day one and the idea of helping the program return to national prominence, the Longhorns have a puncher’s chance. Again, it won’t be easy, but Marshall’s interest in Texas is genuine.
TE Luke Ford – The nation’s top tight end prospect, this weekend will be Ford’s first official visit. The Carterville (IL) product took an unofficial visit to UT over the summer and really did like what he saw. Texas has ground to make up on some SEC schools, including Georgia and Alabama, but Ford has to be licking his chops at the opportunity for playing time that Texas presents. This one’s a bit of an uphill climb, but Texas will swing for the fences this weekend.
LB DaShaun White – The Texas A&M commitment picked up a UT offer in October and he’s pretty much down to Texas, OU and A&M. He remains committed to the Aggies, but if A&M makes a change with its coaching staff, all bets are off with this one. He did visit Oklahoma a couple weeks ago and the Sooners made a very strong impression.
Unofficial visits
WR Al’Vonte Woodard
WR Brennan Eagles
OL Reese Moore
DT Josh Landry
DT Moro Ojomo
LB Byron Hobbs
DB B.J. Foster
DB Jalen Green
(Suchomel)
******
Richland LB DaShaun White remains committed to Texas A&M, but he continues to keep a close eye on the Aggies’ coaching situation while taking visits to OU and Texas. White visited Oklahoma when the Sooners hosted Texas Tech a couple weekends ago, and he’ll be in Austin this weekend for his UT official visit. Texas A&M is pushing for a December visit from White.
White has stayed in close contact with the UT staff ever since picking up his offer in early October, and he spoke with Texas DC Todd Orlando late last week to set up his official visit. He’s ready to get a closer look at the program and catch up with some of his friends.
“I really want to get around a lot of the recruits actually from this class,” White said. “I know a lot of those guys. If I did decide to go there, those would be the guys I get after it with the most.
“I feel like I know the coaches well, but I don’t know a lot of those guys from the defense. I don’t know how their defense kind of vibes. I was (in Dallas) for the OU game, but you only can get so much out of one game.”
White will be joined by his mother on this weekend’s visit. He remains committed to Texas A&M, but it does sound like he’s genuinely torn on his options. Ultimately, he said his choice will come down to “kind of a gut feel.”
“It will depend a lot on how comfortable I feel around everyone. It would be a place I’ll be at for four years. I have a lot of opportunities to play some big ball with some really good coaches. What will be the difference, how much I’m able to bond with these guys,” White said. “I think my relationship with my coaches now kind of takes me to the next level, so I’m kind of looking for that.”
Behind the scenes, there’s been talk that White may have been close to flipping his commitment to Oklahoma following his recent official visit. But the standout linebacker has stuck to his plan to see what happens with the A&M staff before making any final decisions. He did say that the OU visit made a very strong impression.
“It was really good. I’ve been there about 100 times I feel like. But even though this was my sixth or seventh visit, I feel like I got something productive out of it,” White said. “I got a good feel for it, feel for the recruits. It was a good time.”
If A&M does make a coaching change, expect White to officially open up his recruitment. If there’s a change, White said A&M may remain in consideration but he’d have to cross that bridge when he got to it. Most likely, his choice would come down to Texas or OU. Heading into this weekend, it’s a pretty tight race, with OU holding the slightest of edges.
“It is pretty close now. OU would have had the initial lead just because they’ve been in the game for longer, but I feel like depending on this visit, things could possibly change but we’ll see.” (Suchomel)
******
Las Vegas Bishop Gorman DE Adam Plant doesn’t have a Texas offer yet, but he is planning to take a Texas official visit and is hopeful a UT offer will be presented at that time, if not before. If Texas does offer, the Longhorns will immediately move into the driver’s seat.
“I’ve been talking to coach (Oscar) Giles since about February,” Plant said. “I have a great relationship with him and the rest of the coaching staff. I plan on taking my visit there sometime in late November or early December. If they were to offer they would be my top school.”
A former Arizona commitment, Plant said he felt he rushed into that decision so he decided to open his recruitment over the summer. As for Texas and what would push UT out in front if the Longhorns were to offer, Plant said he’s just a fan of what he knows about the Texas program.
“I love Texas, just the atmosphere of the school, it’s a real religious football-based town,” Plant said. “I know I’d be coached great, not just in football but after life. It’s a great education.”
Plant, who goes 6-6 and 260 pounds, said it’s his understanding that the coaches want to see him in person to size him up before considering an offer.
“If they like what they see then they’ll offer,” Plant said.
Arizona, UCLA and USC are other schools being considered for a visit. The plan is for UT to be his first visit, and if things go well on that trip, Plant didn’t rule out the possibility of giving the Longhorns a commitment and shutting it down.
“If I really like it at that time, there’s a possibility I would go ahead and commit,” Plant said.
Plant said he and Giles talk every week or two and the two have developed a very good relationship. As for what Plant brings to the table …
“I feel I’m a great motor guy, good pass rusher. Most players only have one key, but I feel I play the run and rush the passer well,” Plant said. “I feel I’m a great leader, great character, I work hard. There are a few things I can still work on – my bull rush a little bit, getting faster and stronger over the years.” (Suchomel)
******
Will it be Texas or Texas A&M for defensive end Joseph Ossai?
After Ossai’s UT official visit in early October, this one felt like it may have been trending UT’s way. After Ossai took an A&M official visit last weekend, it’s now too close to call.
“It sounds like it went really well, they blew him away,” one source said. “He was talking about doing a decision as early as this week but sounds like that may be delayed.
“A&M feels pretty good coming out of last weekend.”
The wildcard in this one, like a few others, could be Kevin Sumlin’s situation at Texas A&M.
“The big question is how much all the speculation (with Sumlin’s job) will impact Ossai,” the source said.
How the Texas offense fell apart due to injuries
This was beyond any realistic worst-case scenario.
Entering the 2017 season, theTexas Longhornscouldn’t afford injuries at two key positions — left tackle and quarterback. Before halftime of the third game, the ‘Horns had already been lost All-American juniorConnor Williamsand had been withoutShane Buechele, the sophomore starter at quarterback, for six quarters.
But those were ultimately far from the only key injuries faced by the offense, before or since.
To understand why the offense has struggled so much, it’s worth looking back on a timeline of the injuries and the resulting impact on the team.
August 8 —Elijah Rodriguezsuffers a high ankle sprain
Only days into preseason camp, the prospect right tackle, redshirt juniorElijah Rodriguez, went down with a serious high ankle sprain in practice. Two days later, he had surgery that left him with an indefinite timetable for a return. Rodriguez hasn’t played this season and doesn’t appear likely to return for any of the final three games.
Impact:The injury to Rodriguez not only cost the team one of its best offensive linemen, it also left it without the most versatile player in the unit — the Houston-area product was capable of playing four positions. Ultimately, the loss of Rodriguez forced a sub-par senior —Tristan Nickelson— and an inexperienced sophomore —Denzel Okafor— into roles for which they were not prepared.
August 17 —Andrew Beckfractures his foot again
Less than 10 days later, the ‘Horns lost another key player at a position with limited depth when senior tight endAndrew Becksuffered a fracture foot. Within days, he was declared out for the season.
Impact:Entering preseason camp, Beck was the only player on the roster with experience playing the position at Texas. An effective blocker, he also had the potential to emerge as a pass catcher in a more tight end-friendly offense. Instead, his injury left the ‘Horns relying on a former wide receiver, a graduate transfer who arrived during preseason camp, and a freshman who was largely a wide receiver in high school.
September 2 — Shane Buechele suffers a bruised throwing shoulder
After an offseason spent questioning whether the sophomore could stay healthy for an entire season, it only took one game for Buechele to suffer another injury. He ultimately missed two games and showed questionable arm strength when he returned against Iowa State.
Impact:Buechele’s injury forced true freshmanSam Ehlingerinto action early, with Ehlinger playing his second game on the road against No. 4-ranked USC. Injuries at the position were one of the worst-case scenarios before the season and it didn’t take long for that to come to pass.
September 9 —Patrick Hudsonsuffers a knee injury
Late in the blowout against San Jose State, redshirt freshman right guard Patrick Hudson went down with a non-contact knee injury after a promising performance. An MRI later revealed that he had torn his ACL.
Impact:The nation’s No. 2 offensive guard in the 2016 class was set to become a key back up for Texas in his second season on the Forty Acres and his injury left the ‘Horns thin at the guard position.
September 9 —Garrett Graysuffers a knee injury
The former wide receiver became the starting tight end after Beck’s injury and performed poorly against Maryland before suffering a knee injury against San Jose State. He hasn’t played since.
Impact:Graylikely wouldn’t have been a competent player had he remained healthy, but his injury did force freshmanCade Brewerinto action long before the coaching staff would have liked. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck was left scrambling to find a way to effectively utilize Brewer.
September 16 —Connor Williamssuffers knee injuries
In the season’s third game, the ‘Horns lost the one player the offense absolutely could not afford to lose — All-American left tackle Connor Williams. In the first half against the Trojans, Williams suffered a torn meniscus and sprained two of his knee ligaments. He hasn’t played since.
Impact:Not only is Williams a generational talent at the most important position on the offensive line, but the team also lacked an effective replacement with the injury to Rodriguez. As a result, Nickelson briefly took over the position, but it quickly became apparent that his lack of mobility in pass protection could single-handedly sink the offense.
September 28 — Buechele suffers an ankle injury
After returning to the starting lineup for only one game, Buechele quickly suffered another issue, as the school announced the following day that he had sprained his ankle against Iowa State.
Impact:Once again, Ehlinger was forced into the starting role.
October 14 —Jake McMillonmisses game with a hand injury
An injury in practice keptMcMillon, the starting right guard, out of the Oklahoma game and limited his participation in the Oklahoma State game.
Impact:With Hudson out, redshirt juniorTerrell Cuneyshowed why he failed to receive playing time in the past — he’s undersized and susceptible to the bull rush.
October 14 —Kyle Portersuffers an ankle injury
Sophomore running back Kyle Porter carried the ball three times for seven yards against the Sooners before leaving the game with a sprained ankle. After missing the Oklahoma State game, Porter hasn’t received a carry since.
Impact:Given Porter’s lack of effectiveness as a runner, his injury wasn’t particularly significant, though he did provide value as a blocker when he was healthy.
October 21 — Ehlinger suffers a concussion
The freshman threw a brutal game-ending interception in overtime before the school revealed the next day that Ehlinger was suffering from concussion symptoms. He then sat out the Baylor game and didn’t play against TCU due to an inner ear issue that may be related to his head injury.
Impact: Just when it looked like Ehlinger was taking control of the position and the team, Texas was forced into another change at quarterback, complicating the play-calling situation for Beck.
October 21 —Zach Shackelfordsuffers a concussion
Just as McMillon was returning to health, starting center Zach Shackelford, a sophomore, also suffered a concussion during the game against Oklahoma State. Like Ehlinger, he didn’t play against Baylor or TCU.
Impact:Cuneywas once again pushed into the startling lineup due to the injury and largely played poorly, especially against the Horned Frogs.
October 21 —Reggie Hemphill-Mappssuffers a knee injury
One of the team’s most explosive playmakers on offense missed the second half of the game against the Cowboys after sustaining a knee injury.
Impact:Hemphill-Mapps played in the next two games, but totaled only one catch for five games in those contests. As the player most capable of turning short catches into long gains, the diminished impact of the redshirt freshman has hurt the Longhorns offense.
October 28 —Toneil Cartersuffers a concussion
Just as freshman running back Toneil Carter was seemingly breaking out with a 15-carry, 70-yard performance against Baylor that also included a touchdown, the speedster suffered a concussion. Carter missed the game against TCU.
Impact:The rush defense of the Horned Frogs probably wasn’t going to give up much yardage against any Longhorns running back given the state of the Texas offensive line. However, losing the pass-catching ability and explosiveness of Carter when he was finally getting an extended opportunity was certainly unfortunate.
November 4 — Denzel Okafor misses start due to injury
Nickelson started the game with the first-team offense as a result of Okafor suffering an undisclosed injury in practice, head coach Tom Herman said on Monday.
Impact:Okafor has struggled throughout much of the season after being forced into the starting role at left tackle, but he earned the role for a reason — Nickelson is a liability even at right tackle and an even bigger liability at left tackle. The ‘Horns ultimately gave up seven sacks in the game, a season high for the Horned Frogs.
Understanding how much all the injuries along the offensive line hurt the 2017 team requires some further context.
Last season, Williams and left guardPatrick Vahecombined to produce much of the yardage for Doak Walker Award winner D’Onta Foreman. And the offensive line as a whole struggled to protect Buechele, allowing 32 sacks on the season and ranking No. 108 nationally in passing down sack rate.
In other words, this was a line that needed to show some improvement without Foreman and without former starterKent Perkinsand part-time starterBrandon Hodges, who became a graduate transfer. There were no guarantees that it would have become an above-average unit even at full strength.
At the least, however, Texas could have counted on being able to pick up some yards running left and successfully protecting the blind side of the quarterback.
Ultimately, the loss of Hodges, and the subsequent fall transfer of former Under Armour All-American tackleJean Delanceseverely limited depth across the entire unit — any long-term injuries to starters or back ups along the offensive line or at tight end were going to be a problem.
By the third game of the season, the ‘Horns had lost the team’s three best blockers, the back-up tight end, and the back-up guard, all to long-term injuries.
No other position group in football has to play with the same level of coordination as the offensive line, where any break down can sink the entire play. An offense that gets behind the chains and struggles to pass protect stands little chance of succeeding. Meanwhile, strength and experience are paramount in pass protection and run blocking. Texas has lacked continuity, strength, and experience for almost the entire season.
Even the more experienced players, like Vahe and Shackelford, were’t able to redshirt. McMillon redshirted, but arrived as a defensive end, moved to guard, moved back to defense, then moved back to offense again.
Meanwhile, the quarterback position has been a revolving door — neither player has started more than three games in a row the entire season, resulting in a lack of continuity at that position that has made game planning and play calling more difficult. It has also left a leadership void on the offense.
At positions that have had relative health, like running back and wide receiver, the older players have struggled to produce meaningful contributions — the two freshmen running backs are clearly the most talented players at their position and the three leading receivers are all second-year players.
And yet, the leading receiver was demoted to a back-up role three games ago. One of the two seniors at the position has hardly played most of the season because of his poor practice habits.
So Texas fans can complain about the lack of week-to-week improvements and scrutinize the issues with individual play calls, but the bottom line is that injuries play a huge role in a brutal game like football. And the ‘Horns have suffered a rash of them without the depth to insert experienced back ups as replacements.
Despite that, Texas is somehow several plays away from being a two-loss football team. In those three games, mistakes by Ehlinger and the defense were as responsible for the losses as any mistakes by Beck.
Put any of those three games in the win column and all of a sudden the entire season feels much different.
Instead, the players — and coaches — are dealing with extremely difficult situations every week.
“They look out and one minute this guy is playing and the next this guy is playing,” Beck said on Wednesday. “The next minute this guy is playing, the next minute Shane is at quarterback and the next minute Sam is at quarterback. They kind of see the revolving door. It's hard to have any consistency when that is happening. I think that was the first game that we started the same offensive line two games in a row.”
As a result, Beck admitted several weeks ago that he was pressing as a play caller. The players are pressing, wanting to succeed. But as head coach Tom Herman has pointed out all season, the key to success is playing confidently, without hesitation, and with trust in the training provided by the coaches. Due to the circumstances, none of that has really been possible for the offense.
“They are so eager to try and do well,” Beck said. “Sometimes they are trying so hard, they are trying too hard. So we're trying to not press, but we are pressing, we know that. It's hard not to.”
Beck closed the press conference by noting that “most people” see the injury issues and the constant changes in personnel and understand why the team is struggling. But based on how fans perceive Beck’s job performance this season, it’s clear that many don’t understand.
And so instead of understanding why the offense consistently fails to show improvement from week to week, a difficult task due to the changing levels of competition and the challenges of a difficult schedule, fans are instead reflexively blaming Beck.
In doing so, those fans demonstrate an abject lack of understanding about why the offense is where it is.
Sad.
https://www.burntorangenation.com/2...-injuries-connor-williams-tom-herman-tim-beck
This was beyond any realistic worst-case scenario.
Entering the 2017 season, theTexas Longhornscouldn’t afford injuries at two key positions — left tackle and quarterback. Before halftime of the third game, the ‘Horns had already been lost All-American juniorConnor Williamsand had been withoutShane Buechele, the sophomore starter at quarterback, for six quarters.
But those were ultimately far from the only key injuries faced by the offense, before or since.
To understand why the offense has struggled so much, it’s worth looking back on a timeline of the injuries and the resulting impact on the team.
August 8 —Elijah Rodriguezsuffers a high ankle sprain
Only days into preseason camp, the prospect right tackle, redshirt juniorElijah Rodriguez, went down with a serious high ankle sprain in practice. Two days later, he had surgery that left him with an indefinite timetable for a return. Rodriguez hasn’t played this season and doesn’t appear likely to return for any of the final three games.
Impact:The injury to Rodriguez not only cost the team one of its best offensive linemen, it also left it without the most versatile player in the unit — the Houston-area product was capable of playing four positions. Ultimately, the loss of Rodriguez forced a sub-par senior —Tristan Nickelson— and an inexperienced sophomore —Denzel Okafor— into roles for which they were not prepared.
August 17 —Andrew Beckfractures his foot again
Less than 10 days later, the ‘Horns lost another key player at a position with limited depth when senior tight endAndrew Becksuffered a fracture foot. Within days, he was declared out for the season.
Impact:Entering preseason camp, Beck was the only player on the roster with experience playing the position at Texas. An effective blocker, he also had the potential to emerge as a pass catcher in a more tight end-friendly offense. Instead, his injury left the ‘Horns relying on a former wide receiver, a graduate transfer who arrived during preseason camp, and a freshman who was largely a wide receiver in high school.
September 2 — Shane Buechele suffers a bruised throwing shoulder
After an offseason spent questioning whether the sophomore could stay healthy for an entire season, it only took one game for Buechele to suffer another injury. He ultimately missed two games and showed questionable arm strength when he returned against Iowa State.
Impact:Buechele’s injury forced true freshmanSam Ehlingerinto action early, with Ehlinger playing his second game on the road against No. 4-ranked USC. Injuries at the position were one of the worst-case scenarios before the season and it didn’t take long for that to come to pass.
September 9 —Patrick Hudsonsuffers a knee injury
Late in the blowout against San Jose State, redshirt freshman right guard Patrick Hudson went down with a non-contact knee injury after a promising performance. An MRI later revealed that he had torn his ACL.
Impact:The nation’s No. 2 offensive guard in the 2016 class was set to become a key back up for Texas in his second season on the Forty Acres and his injury left the ‘Horns thin at the guard position.
September 9 —Garrett Graysuffers a knee injury
The former wide receiver became the starting tight end after Beck’s injury and performed poorly against Maryland before suffering a knee injury against San Jose State. He hasn’t played since.
Impact:Graylikely wouldn’t have been a competent player had he remained healthy, but his injury did force freshmanCade Brewerinto action long before the coaching staff would have liked. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck was left scrambling to find a way to effectively utilize Brewer.
September 16 —Connor Williamssuffers knee injuries
In the season’s third game, the ‘Horns lost the one player the offense absolutely could not afford to lose — All-American left tackle Connor Williams. In the first half against the Trojans, Williams suffered a torn meniscus and sprained two of his knee ligaments. He hasn’t played since.
Impact:Not only is Williams a generational talent at the most important position on the offensive line, but the team also lacked an effective replacement with the injury to Rodriguez. As a result, Nickelson briefly took over the position, but it quickly became apparent that his lack of mobility in pass protection could single-handedly sink the offense.
September 28 — Buechele suffers an ankle injury
After returning to the starting lineup for only one game, Buechele quickly suffered another issue, as the school announced the following day that he had sprained his ankle against Iowa State.
Impact:Once again, Ehlinger was forced into the starting role.
October 14 —Jake McMillonmisses game with a hand injury
An injury in practice keptMcMillon, the starting right guard, out of the Oklahoma game and limited his participation in the Oklahoma State game.
Impact:With Hudson out, redshirt juniorTerrell Cuneyshowed why he failed to receive playing time in the past — he’s undersized and susceptible to the bull rush.
October 14 —Kyle Portersuffers an ankle injury
Sophomore running back Kyle Porter carried the ball three times for seven yards against the Sooners before leaving the game with a sprained ankle. After missing the Oklahoma State game, Porter hasn’t received a carry since.
Impact:Given Porter’s lack of effectiveness as a runner, his injury wasn’t particularly significant, though he did provide value as a blocker when he was healthy.
October 21 — Ehlinger suffers a concussion
The freshman threw a brutal game-ending interception in overtime before the school revealed the next day that Ehlinger was suffering from concussion symptoms. He then sat out the Baylor game and didn’t play against TCU due to an inner ear issue that may be related to his head injury.
Impact: Just when it looked like Ehlinger was taking control of the position and the team, Texas was forced into another change at quarterback, complicating the play-calling situation for Beck.
October 21 —Zach Shackelfordsuffers a concussion
Just as McMillon was returning to health, starting center Zach Shackelford, a sophomore, also suffered a concussion during the game against Oklahoma State. Like Ehlinger, he didn’t play against Baylor or TCU.
Impact:Cuneywas once again pushed into the startling lineup due to the injury and largely played poorly, especially against the Horned Frogs.
October 21 —Reggie Hemphill-Mappssuffers a knee injury
One of the team’s most explosive playmakers on offense missed the second half of the game against the Cowboys after sustaining a knee injury.
Impact:Hemphill-Mapps played in the next two games, but totaled only one catch for five games in those contests. As the player most capable of turning short catches into long gains, the diminished impact of the redshirt freshman has hurt the Longhorns offense.
October 28 —Toneil Cartersuffers a concussion
Just as freshman running back Toneil Carter was seemingly breaking out with a 15-carry, 70-yard performance against Baylor that also included a touchdown, the speedster suffered a concussion. Carter missed the game against TCU.
Impact:The rush defense of the Horned Frogs probably wasn’t going to give up much yardage against any Longhorns running back given the state of the Texas offensive line. However, losing the pass-catching ability and explosiveness of Carter when he was finally getting an extended opportunity was certainly unfortunate.
November 4 — Denzel Okafor misses start due to injury
Nickelson started the game with the first-team offense as a result of Okafor suffering an undisclosed injury in practice, head coach Tom Herman said on Monday.
Impact:Okafor has struggled throughout much of the season after being forced into the starting role at left tackle, but he earned the role for a reason — Nickelson is a liability even at right tackle and an even bigger liability at left tackle. The ‘Horns ultimately gave up seven sacks in the game, a season high for the Horned Frogs.
Understanding how much all the injuries along the offensive line hurt the 2017 team requires some further context.
Last season, Williams and left guardPatrick Vahecombined to produce much of the yardage for Doak Walker Award winner D’Onta Foreman. And the offensive line as a whole struggled to protect Buechele, allowing 32 sacks on the season and ranking No. 108 nationally in passing down sack rate.
In other words, this was a line that needed to show some improvement without Foreman and without former starterKent Perkinsand part-time starterBrandon Hodges, who became a graduate transfer. There were no guarantees that it would have become an above-average unit even at full strength.
At the least, however, Texas could have counted on being able to pick up some yards running left and successfully protecting the blind side of the quarterback.
Ultimately, the loss of Hodges, and the subsequent fall transfer of former Under Armour All-American tackleJean Delanceseverely limited depth across the entire unit — any long-term injuries to starters or back ups along the offensive line or at tight end were going to be a problem.
By the third game of the season, the ‘Horns had lost the team’s three best blockers, the back-up tight end, and the back-up guard, all to long-term injuries.
No other position group in football has to play with the same level of coordination as the offensive line, where any break down can sink the entire play. An offense that gets behind the chains and struggles to pass protect stands little chance of succeeding. Meanwhile, strength and experience are paramount in pass protection and run blocking. Texas has lacked continuity, strength, and experience for almost the entire season.
Even the more experienced players, like Vahe and Shackelford, were’t able to redshirt. McMillon redshirted, but arrived as a defensive end, moved to guard, moved back to defense, then moved back to offense again.
Meanwhile, the quarterback position has been a revolving door — neither player has started more than three games in a row the entire season, resulting in a lack of continuity at that position that has made game planning and play calling more difficult. It has also left a leadership void on the offense.
At positions that have had relative health, like running back and wide receiver, the older players have struggled to produce meaningful contributions — the two freshmen running backs are clearly the most talented players at their position and the three leading receivers are all second-year players.
And yet, the leading receiver was demoted to a back-up role three games ago. One of the two seniors at the position has hardly played most of the season because of his poor practice habits.
So Texas fans can complain about the lack of week-to-week improvements and scrutinize the issues with individual play calls, but the bottom line is that injuries play a huge role in a brutal game like football. And the ‘Horns have suffered a rash of them without the depth to insert experienced back ups as replacements.
Despite that, Texas is somehow several plays away from being a two-loss football team. In those three games, mistakes by Ehlinger and the defense were as responsible for the losses as any mistakes by Beck.
Put any of those three games in the win column and all of a sudden the entire season feels much different.
Instead, the players — and coaches — are dealing with extremely difficult situations every week.
“They look out and one minute this guy is playing and the next this guy is playing,” Beck said on Wednesday. “The next minute this guy is playing, the next minute Shane is at quarterback and the next minute Sam is at quarterback. They kind of see the revolving door. It's hard to have any consistency when that is happening. I think that was the first game that we started the same offensive line two games in a row.”
As a result, Beck admitted several weeks ago that he was pressing as a play caller. The players are pressing, wanting to succeed. But as head coach Tom Herman has pointed out all season, the key to success is playing confidently, without hesitation, and with trust in the training provided by the coaches. Due to the circumstances, none of that has really been possible for the offense.
“They are so eager to try and do well,” Beck said. “Sometimes they are trying so hard, they are trying too hard. So we're trying to not press, but we are pressing, we know that. It's hard not to.”
Beck closed the press conference by noting that “most people” see the injury issues and the constant changes in personnel and understand why the team is struggling. But based on how fans perceive Beck’s job performance this season, it’s clear that many don’t understand.
And so instead of understanding why the offense consistently fails to show improvement from week to week, a difficult task due to the changing levels of competition and the challenges of a difficult schedule, fans are instead reflexively blaming Beck.
In doing so, those fans demonstrate an abject lack of understanding about why the offense is where it is.
Sad.
https://www.burntorangenation.com/2...-injuries-connor-williams-tom-herman-tim-beck
That was a good article that added some perspective to the season. When you see the timing of the injuries broken down it gives one a better understanding of what is going on.
The part of the article I didn't like is saying we are a few plays away from only losing 2 games. I never understand when a writer or coach says that.
You can say that about a 3 TD loss. It would be more honest to say if we had backups that were ready to play we could have had 3 more wins.
Not blaming this on any of our coaches, that's just an explanation a lot of writers and coaches throw out there to soften losses.
Whatdo we know about our pk commit Cameron Dicker? I see where he's a 3* and. and that's a good rating for a kicker. What kind of range does he have? Does he punt as well?
I don't think we are pressing. If we did, he would commit. We have other WR's higher on the board.
Per EJ @ 247
— Getting Chasen Hines on campus is a pleasant surprise for Texas. After talking to him last week, I had my doubts that he would ever make it back to Austin. As we first reported, his mother prevented him — on several occasions — from making a trip this summer. Hines has high interest in Texas and if the Longhorns push, he could be a late flip. As far as where he plays at the next level, Hines is guy you get on campus figure out what to do with.
— Texas also managed to get Alabama athlete commit Vernon Jackson on campus for an unofficial visit. I spoke to our Alabama recruiting reporter, Hank South, and he said that Jackson is looking around and might want to stay closer to home. Texas A&M was the in-state favorite for Jackson before his decision, but with so much uncertainty in College Station, the door is open for the Longhorns to make a move. Texas is recruiting Jackson as a defensive lineman, and obviously, there is a major need up front.
— The Joseph Ossai saga took an unexpected turn when he made an unofficial visit to Texas A&M. It was his third time there in as many weeks, and as I posted earlier tonight, I heard the visit went well. I am continuing to hear that Texas A&M is gaining some steam here. The Longhorns need to make a relentless push over the next 24-48 hours as Ossai could decide at any time (yes, he plans to wait until next weekend, but it's recruiting). Again, Ossai likes the Texas staff and its stability, but he loves the overall fit at Texas A&M beyond football.
— Frisco Heritage tight end Nic McTear was a late addition to the visitors list. As we've been reporting, McTear is on UT's radar and could be a second take at the tight end position. Right now, the plan seems to be to allocate that scholarship at another position, but McTear is definitely worth keeping an eye on as he could be a late take. Speaking of guys on the radar, Joshua Landry was on campus today and didn't get an offer, which isn't a surprise. But the Longhorns might have to extend an offer soon with the way defensive line recruiting is going.
— Getting Chasen Hines on campus is a pleasant surprise for Texas. After talking to him last week, I had my doubts that he would ever make it back to Austin. As we first reported, his mother prevented him — on several occasions — from making a trip this summer. Hines has high interest in Texas and if the Longhorns push, he could be a late flip. As far as where he plays at the next level, Hines is guy you get on campus figure out what to do with.
— Texas also managed to get Alabama athlete commit Vernon Jackson on campus for an unofficial visit. I spoke to our Alabama recruiting reporter, Hank South, and he said that Jackson is looking around and might want to stay closer to home. Texas A&M was the in-state favorite for Jackson before his decision, but with so much uncertainty in College Station, the door is open for the Longhorns to make a move. Texas is recruiting Jackson as a defensive lineman, and obviously, there is a major need up front.
— The Joseph Ossai saga took an unexpected turn when he made an unofficial visit to Texas A&M. It was his third time there in as many weeks, and as I posted earlier tonight, I heard the visit went well. I am continuing to hear that Texas A&M is gaining some steam here. The Longhorns need to make a relentless push over the next 24-48 hours as Ossai could decide at any time (yes, he plans to wait until next weekend, but it's recruiting). Again, Ossai likes the Texas staff and its stability, but he loves the overall fit at Texas A&M beyond football.
— Frisco Heritage tight end Nic McTear was a late addition to the visitors list. As we've been reporting, McTear is on UT's radar and could be a second take at the tight end position. Right now, the plan seems to be to allocate that scholarship at another position, but McTear is definitely worth keeping an eye on as he could be a late take. Speaking of guys on the radar, Joshua Landry was on campus today and didn't get an offer, which isn't a surprise. But the Longhorns might have to extend an offer soon with the way defensive line recruiting is going.
Sounds like we have a real shot with Terrace Marshall:
From TFB
I texted with his father and plan on speaking to him after the visit. But a quick quote I wanted to pass along regarding how the visit has been going, “very much exceeding our expectations”.
Going into this visit I would’ve given Texas very little chance to land Marshall. However, speaking to a source it sounds like the visit is going extremely well. Part of Texas’ pitch to Marshall is how much Herman will utilize wide receivers. That sounds like a pretty general pitch but consider that Marshall’s top schools are Alabama, LSU, TAMU, FSU and Texas that becomes a pretty sound pitch.
TAMU – unstable. I’m told by a source that they are out for Marshall.
FSU – is having a horrible season.
Alabama – source tells me that Bama may not even get a official visit. I’m told the family is very concerned with how little the WRs actually get the ball.
LSU – this is considered by most to be the favorite however one source said that the Marshall family is very aware of the fact that LSU is, for a lot of wide receivers, a place where you go only to never been heard of again.
I’m told that the Marshall family seems to be really buying into Herman’s vision for the future and the class he is putting together. Am told that Jamison, Woodard and Eagles were all recruiting Marshall.
From TFB
I texted with his father and plan on speaking to him after the visit. But a quick quote I wanted to pass along regarding how the visit has been going, “very much exceeding our expectations”.
Going into this visit I would’ve given Texas very little chance to land Marshall. However, speaking to a source it sounds like the visit is going extremely well. Part of Texas’ pitch to Marshall is how much Herman will utilize wide receivers. That sounds like a pretty general pitch but consider that Marshall’s top schools are Alabama, LSU, TAMU, FSU and Texas that becomes a pretty sound pitch.
TAMU – unstable. I’m told by a source that they are out for Marshall.
FSU – is having a horrible season.
Alabama – source tells me that Bama may not even get a official visit. I’m told the family is very concerned with how little the WRs actually get the ball.
LSU – this is considered by most to be the favorite however one source said that the Marshall family is very aware of the fact that LSU is, for a lot of wide receivers, a place where you go only to never been heard of again.
I’m told that the Marshall family seems to be really buying into Herman’s vision for the future and the class he is putting together. Am told that Jamison, Woodard and Eagles were all recruiting Marshall.
247 update on White: I just spoke with Texas A&M commit DaShaun White following his official visit to Texas. I'll have a complete story in the morning, but suffice to say the visit went really well for Texas. White really got a feel for the coaching staff after spending some time with them, which helped him to overcome some of the perception he previously held. He was also impressed by the academic presentation, as was his mother. In fact, the most important development IMO is that they won his mother's blessing if he does decide to flip. I think Oklahoma still poses a threat, but Texas made a major move. As I said, I'll have a full report tomorrow. Roach followed up his White update with "I’m not quite ready to put the crystal ball in, but Texas made up lots of ground."
EJ said that Joseph Ossai is "no longer leaning towards Texas A&M" after the high of the visit wore off and that "Texas made a nice push over the last 24 hours." Now saying it could go either way and that even if there's a decision soon, it could drag out for a couple of weeks.
He also said Chasen Hines told him the visit was only OK and that he didn't feel at home at Texas. But EJ said there's a lot of pressure of him to stick with LSU, and that his mom wants him at LSU.
OrangeBloods spoke with the father of WR Terrace Marshall today. They believe this one is down to LSU and Texas, and there will not be an official visit to Alabama. He will be visiting LSU over Thanksgiving weekend.
EJ said that Joseph Ossai is "no longer leaning towards Texas A&M" after the high of the visit wore off and that "Texas made a nice push over the last 24 hours." Now saying it could go either way and that even if there's a decision soon, it could drag out for a couple of weeks.
He also said Chasen Hines told him the visit was only OK and that he didn't feel at home at Texas. But EJ said there's a lot of pressure of him to stick with LSU, and that his mom wants him at LSU.
OrangeBloods spoke with the father of WR Terrace Marshall today. They believe this one is down to LSU and Texas, and there will not be an official visit to Alabama. He will be visiting LSU over Thanksgiving weekend.
By: Eric Nahlin and Justin Wells
We're heading down the stretch in 2017 and the Longhorns control their own destiny. We're talking team updates, injury report, and all the recruiting. It's just another Monday with a jam-packed Inside Scoop.
From: Eric and Justin
The biggest news was dropped last night with the expected return of All American LT Connor Williams. It can't go understated how much this could boost the UT offensive line.
Against KU, LB Gary Johnson suffered one of the most severe "stingers" seen. It doesn't matter. He's also set to play in Morgantown this weekend.
At quarterback, it's still undetermined. With a lackluster performance from Shane Buechele, coupled with the healthy return of Sam Ehlinger, this week's practice will be revealing. The smart money is on seeing Ehlinger against West Virginia. They're just a different animal when the true freshman is calling the shots.
On defense, expect more Dime packages vs the Holgorsen Air-Raid. While RB Justin Crawford will be tough to corral in this front, you have to commit to the trio of WVU pass-catchers led by Biletnikoff Award (top WR) semifinalist David Sills. You also have to hope K-State's physicality wore down Will Grier and company. We'll have more on the team later this week.
The team knows what's at stake. They know a bowl game is right there. Herman and his staff know the importance of bowl eligibility in their first season. With Williams, Johnson, and Ehlinger ready, all the chips will be put on the table.
From: Eric Nahlin
ANTHONY COOK
You already know the nuts and bolts of this one but here are some recent quotes the highest rated player remaining on UT's board gave me. Texas holds the slight edge in the opinion of people close to this one, but that's meaningless at this point.
On delaying his 10/30 decision:
"I delayed it because I didn't feel like I was ready to make a decision, because it's not a four year decision, it's a forty year decision. As far as timeline, it's like whenever I feel like. I'm coming close to a decision but right now I'm not (ready). I'm not there yet."
What will differentiate Texas, LSU, and Ohio State:
"I'm at three right now, and the deciding factor I guess wherever I feel like home is because they all have benefits and they all have pros and cons. Wherever I feel like home is will be the deciding factor for me."
Depth charts and competition:
"I've been looking at the depth chart ever since I selected those three schools. Everywhere you go they'll have competition, they'll have dudes that have been there."
The rest of this quote is convoluted, but he said he felt he could go in and earn playing time early at each of the three schools despite the talent already in place. With Holton Hill out, certainly he sees how open that job will be next year assuming Hill declares.
Perhaps joining some teammates in Austin:
"I'm always thinking about, 'man, we can all go to Texas -- we already got two guys there -- we can all go there and it will just be the Lamar to Texas pipeline.' Sure that's running through my head but it really doesn't play a part because at the end of the day I have to make the best decision for me."
JOSH LANDRY
The Texas staff went over senior film in recent weeks looking for potential defensive linemen in the wake of losing Ronnie Perkins to Oklahoma. As you can see from his Hudl, Landry is having a fine season. Texas thinks so too.
I caught up with him right after I talked to Cook.
6-foot-3, 245 pounds, and pretty lean:
"I slowed down on the eating and a little more conditioning, that's it."
Lamar's best defensive player this year:
"I've been playing pretty well. I still have a lot of things I can improve on, as far as my hands and coming off the ball a little bit stronger. Other than that I think I'm playing pretty well."
Becoming more vocal:
"This year I've tried to step it up a bit and be more of a leader and not sit in the background as much."
Trying to play coy, but fails:
"It felt good. I've always kind of looked at Texas [big smile on his face]."
On what he was looking forward to on Saturday:
"I just want to see the d-line up close and how well they work together and how well Coach Giles coaches them."
Fit at Texas:
"(Giles) says he sees me playing end but he likes the fact I can move anywhere along the line."
Still committed to Baylor:
"It's going to be a close run between them (if Texas offers)."
Landry said he was unsure if he'd get an offer this weekend (he didn't receive one) but he mentioned Giles talked to him on Thursday and said he was excited to see him. It's a good thing he didn't go in expecting an offer.
With no offer, where does this one stand? Texas is still fine here. The staff not only wanted him in town last weekend but have already arranged Landry's official for December 15th when most of the commits will take their official (brilliant -- get them in to visit to help ensure they all take advantage of the early signing period).
DEFENSIVE LINE RECRUITING IN GENERAL
Westfield's Keondre Coburn is in and as I wrote a week or two ago I feel confident he'll remain committed. That's good, but Texas still needs two more defensive linemen, at least ideally.
Landry didn't receive his offer and that's telling. To me that means he's the floor in this class, at least through the perspective of the Texas staff. That's pretty encouraging because he's a fine prospect.
It's always been the intention to remain in contact with Max Wright to see where he stands if Kevin Sumlin is removed. It looks like Sumlin will be gone. You know how I feel; he's a long shot no matter what. He's sure recruiting Joseph Ossai like he'll be staying in College Station regardless. As Justin has maintained, it's possible he'll take an official visit. Even if that happens I'm skeptical of UT's chances.
Three players are likely to bolt A&M if Sumlin is fired; linebacker DaShaun White, safety Leon O'Neal, and DL Bobby Brown.
If Brown de-commits then Texas is back in it simply by being close to home. OU probably becomes the leader but recall they made the mistake of mentioning offensive line to Brown (Texas should use that against them). If for some reason the A&M defensive staff is retained, or just Terry Price, then A&M will remain in it too. You know how I feel about Brown, but the staff will likely make another run at him.
One exciting development this week was Vernon Jackson making it to campus (Justin speaks with him). He's been little discussed because he doesn't talk much, and Texas hasn't made much noise in the recruitment. A&M finished runner-up to Alabama, who Jackson committed to in September. Jackson is a bouncy guy who will fill carry another 30-40 pounds on his 6-foot-3, 240 pound frame. There are similarities to he and Malcolm Roach at this same stage. It's very possible he's the hold up on Landry's offer as they project to a similar fit. As much as I like Landry, Jackson is more athletic and explosive.
Bishop Gorman's Adam Plant will set up an official for either later this month or next. He fits as the ideal 4i stature-wise and I'll take him all day over Brown. I'm not all that up to speed on this recruitment and don't know him well.
Joseph Ossai is really a linebacker in the UT scheme but I'll mention him here anyway. I haven't been able to ever put Texas in the lead here and it seems like this is going to go A&M's way, even if Sumlin is removed. He simply likes the school. I do feel like this one is not over until he goes public with a decision. His odd plan to give a silent commitment then announce publicly on NSD is meaningless, but once he goes public I feel strongly that's as good as dried ink.
The ideal finish in my view: Coburn, Jackson, Plant. I would be very happy with Landry in the class if Texas misses elsewhere.
From: Justin Wells
After taking down Kansas on Saturday night, the crop of prospects in attendance turned in strong reviews of Austin, the coaching staff, and the future of Texas Football. A few even extended their stay.
Chasen Hines. The massive 4-star lineman from Marshall and LSU commit made the trip with his mom on Saturday. That was already big. He had positive reviews of the visit and I think he's genuinely torn. LSU coaches won't let this kid breath on another campus and I guarantee they were blowing up his phone. "It was different," said Hines, about the trip.
On one hand, Chasen sees himself in purple and gold. His mom is very Pro-LSU. On the other, that school in Austin continues to chip away at him. The running back committed from Carthage is also in his ear. And we knew he was visiting since last Tuesday. He really wanted to keep it a secret. My guess is to thwart any of Coach O's staff catching wind.
At this moment, he's still SEC bound. But this weekend was an indicator that staying close to home might be in the cards. Texas just has to keep pushing the right buttons. That means telling him he can play OL or DL. That means the rest of the #RevolUTion18 need to get involved. Stay tuned here, folks.
Nic McTear. The Frisco Heritage TE made it to Austin late, but still had a "good time", watched a "great game", and "visited with TE coach Corby Meekins." This one is easy; if Texas offers, I think he'll jump on board. It's down to numbers and how many tight ends UT takes in 2018. He might make it back for the Texas Tech game.
Luke Ford. "It was awesome," said Ford, one of the nation's top TEs. "Just like last time. Austin is great." It's hard to get a read here because Ford is really just an enthusiastic kid who loves playing football. Conventional wisdom says Alabama and Georgia lead this recruitment. But yet Ford continues to talk UT. Nick Saban and Kirby Smart's 2018 tight end takes here will be the biggest factor, IMO.
Vernon Jackson. I caught up with the Boling DE/ATH this weekend and, if Texas wanted his attention, they got it. The Alabama pledge tells me he's been talking to Texas lately, and seeing the Longhorns was a plus. There's scuttle Saban might be telling Jackson to look around, and if so, UT would probably take him. He's a fantastic athlete that @josephcook and I watched play in the 2A state championship last winter. He's a defensive end, probably WDE, and the Horns could use all the linemen they can get.
DaShaun White. The latest word on White is that he's still actually in Austin. They were on campus until 7pm last night. We've mentioned he's close to Texas commit, Byron Hobbs. That's putting it mildly. Hobbs and his family have some persuasion here with the A&M commit. I don't want to think about the fact if UT offers last summer he's probably already a Horn. Just know White has always loved the Longhorns and that coach Orlando is putting on the full-court press. Eric will have more on White soon.
Tamauzia Brown. I told y'all to remember the name. This kid is dynamite. The 4-star athlete out of Newton has seen the Horns play a couple of times this season. Each visit is better than the last. "I got to talk to the WR coach Mehringer and some of the players," said Brown. "(Texas) said they don't know where to put me because I'm really good on both sides of the ball. They said I might actually play both."
If any athlete in-state for 2019 can play both ways, it's Brown. He'll have double-digit offers before the end of Spring. I'll catch him and the Eagles face off against Arp and the Fighting Overshowns on Thursday night in San Augustine. Damn that's a drive, but totally worth it.
Lufkin Panthers - Carl Williams, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Breylon Garcia. Williams (DT) and Garcia (DE/OLB) are junior prospects while Polk (WR/CB/anywhere) is just a sophomore. All three can play big-time D1. The group has OU and Oklahoma State offers among them and I'll have a separate post on the Lufkin trio later this week.
It would behoove the Texas staff to get in good with HC John Quick and the Panthers program. The place that delivered Dez Bryant, Reggie McNeal, Javorskie Lane, Keke Coutee, and Carrington Byndom is usually stocked with talent. The underclassmen in this school are stout. They face Rockwall-Heath in the 1st round of the 6A Texas HS football playoffs on Friday.
For the record, they loved the Austin visit. All three of them.
We're heading down the stretch in 2017 and the Longhorns control their own destiny. We're talking team updates, injury report, and all the recruiting. It's just another Monday with a jam-packed Inside Scoop.
From: Eric and Justin
The biggest news was dropped last night with the expected return of All American LT Connor Williams. It can't go understated how much this could boost the UT offensive line.
Against KU, LB Gary Johnson suffered one of the most severe "stingers" seen. It doesn't matter. He's also set to play in Morgantown this weekend.
At quarterback, it's still undetermined. With a lackluster performance from Shane Buechele, coupled with the healthy return of Sam Ehlinger, this week's practice will be revealing. The smart money is on seeing Ehlinger against West Virginia. They're just a different animal when the true freshman is calling the shots.
On defense, expect more Dime packages vs the Holgorsen Air-Raid. While RB Justin Crawford will be tough to corral in this front, you have to commit to the trio of WVU pass-catchers led by Biletnikoff Award (top WR) semifinalist David Sills. You also have to hope K-State's physicality wore down Will Grier and company. We'll have more on the team later this week.
The team knows what's at stake. They know a bowl game is right there. Herman and his staff know the importance of bowl eligibility in their first season. With Williams, Johnson, and Ehlinger ready, all the chips will be put on the table.
From: Eric Nahlin
ANTHONY COOK
You already know the nuts and bolts of this one but here are some recent quotes the highest rated player remaining on UT's board gave me. Texas holds the slight edge in the opinion of people close to this one, but that's meaningless at this point.
On delaying his 10/30 decision:
"I delayed it because I didn't feel like I was ready to make a decision, because it's not a four year decision, it's a forty year decision. As far as timeline, it's like whenever I feel like. I'm coming close to a decision but right now I'm not (ready). I'm not there yet."
What will differentiate Texas, LSU, and Ohio State:
"I'm at three right now, and the deciding factor I guess wherever I feel like home is because they all have benefits and they all have pros and cons. Wherever I feel like home is will be the deciding factor for me."
Depth charts and competition:
"I've been looking at the depth chart ever since I selected those three schools. Everywhere you go they'll have competition, they'll have dudes that have been there."
The rest of this quote is convoluted, but he said he felt he could go in and earn playing time early at each of the three schools despite the talent already in place. With Holton Hill out, certainly he sees how open that job will be next year assuming Hill declares.
Perhaps joining some teammates in Austin:
"I'm always thinking about, 'man, we can all go to Texas -- we already got two guys there -- we can all go there and it will just be the Lamar to Texas pipeline.' Sure that's running through my head but it really doesn't play a part because at the end of the day I have to make the best decision for me."
JOSH LANDRY
The Texas staff went over senior film in recent weeks looking for potential defensive linemen in the wake of losing Ronnie Perkins to Oklahoma. As you can see from his Hudl, Landry is having a fine season. Texas thinks so too.
I caught up with him right after I talked to Cook.
6-foot-3, 245 pounds, and pretty lean:
"I slowed down on the eating and a little more conditioning, that's it."
Lamar's best defensive player this year:
"I've been playing pretty well. I still have a lot of things I can improve on, as far as my hands and coming off the ball a little bit stronger. Other than that I think I'm playing pretty well."
Becoming more vocal:
"This year I've tried to step it up a bit and be more of a leader and not sit in the background as much."
Trying to play coy, but fails:
"It felt good. I've always kind of looked at Texas [big smile on his face]."
On what he was looking forward to on Saturday:
"I just want to see the d-line up close and how well they work together and how well Coach Giles coaches them."
Fit at Texas:
"(Giles) says he sees me playing end but he likes the fact I can move anywhere along the line."
Still committed to Baylor:
"It's going to be a close run between them (if Texas offers)."
Landry said he was unsure if he'd get an offer this weekend (he didn't receive one) but he mentioned Giles talked to him on Thursday and said he was excited to see him. It's a good thing he didn't go in expecting an offer.
With no offer, where does this one stand? Texas is still fine here. The staff not only wanted him in town last weekend but have already arranged Landry's official for December 15th when most of the commits will take their official (brilliant -- get them in to visit to help ensure they all take advantage of the early signing period).
DEFENSIVE LINE RECRUITING IN GENERAL
Westfield's Keondre Coburn is in and as I wrote a week or two ago I feel confident he'll remain committed. That's good, but Texas still needs two more defensive linemen, at least ideally.
Landry didn't receive his offer and that's telling. To me that means he's the floor in this class, at least through the perspective of the Texas staff. That's pretty encouraging because he's a fine prospect.
It's always been the intention to remain in contact with Max Wright to see where he stands if Kevin Sumlin is removed. It looks like Sumlin will be gone. You know how I feel; he's a long shot no matter what. He's sure recruiting Joseph Ossai like he'll be staying in College Station regardless. As Justin has maintained, it's possible he'll take an official visit. Even if that happens I'm skeptical of UT's chances.
Three players are likely to bolt A&M if Sumlin is fired; linebacker DaShaun White, safety Leon O'Neal, and DL Bobby Brown.
If Brown de-commits then Texas is back in it simply by being close to home. OU probably becomes the leader but recall they made the mistake of mentioning offensive line to Brown (Texas should use that against them). If for some reason the A&M defensive staff is retained, or just Terry Price, then A&M will remain in it too. You know how I feel about Brown, but the staff will likely make another run at him.
One exciting development this week was Vernon Jackson making it to campus (Justin speaks with him). He's been little discussed because he doesn't talk much, and Texas hasn't made much noise in the recruitment. A&M finished runner-up to Alabama, who Jackson committed to in September. Jackson is a bouncy guy who will fill carry another 30-40 pounds on his 6-foot-3, 240 pound frame. There are similarities to he and Malcolm Roach at this same stage. It's very possible he's the hold up on Landry's offer as they project to a similar fit. As much as I like Landry, Jackson is more athletic and explosive.
Bishop Gorman's Adam Plant will set up an official for either later this month or next. He fits as the ideal 4i stature-wise and I'll take him all day over Brown. I'm not all that up to speed on this recruitment and don't know him well.
Joseph Ossai is really a linebacker in the UT scheme but I'll mention him here anyway. I haven't been able to ever put Texas in the lead here and it seems like this is going to go A&M's way, even if Sumlin is removed. He simply likes the school. I do feel like this one is not over until he goes public with a decision. His odd plan to give a silent commitment then announce publicly on NSD is meaningless, but once he goes public I feel strongly that's as good as dried ink.
The ideal finish in my view: Coburn, Jackson, Plant. I would be very happy with Landry in the class if Texas misses elsewhere.
From: Justin Wells
After taking down Kansas on Saturday night, the crop of prospects in attendance turned in strong reviews of Austin, the coaching staff, and the future of Texas Football. A few even extended their stay.
Chasen Hines. The massive 4-star lineman from Marshall and LSU commit made the trip with his mom on Saturday. That was already big. He had positive reviews of the visit and I think he's genuinely torn. LSU coaches won't let this kid breath on another campus and I guarantee they were blowing up his phone. "It was different," said Hines, about the trip.
On one hand, Chasen sees himself in purple and gold. His mom is very Pro-LSU. On the other, that school in Austin continues to chip away at him. The running back committed from Carthage is also in his ear. And we knew he was visiting since last Tuesday. He really wanted to keep it a secret. My guess is to thwart any of Coach O's staff catching wind.
At this moment, he's still SEC bound. But this weekend was an indicator that staying close to home might be in the cards. Texas just has to keep pushing the right buttons. That means telling him he can play OL or DL. That means the rest of the #RevolUTion18 need to get involved. Stay tuned here, folks.
Nic McTear. The Frisco Heritage TE made it to Austin late, but still had a "good time", watched a "great game", and "visited with TE coach Corby Meekins." This one is easy; if Texas offers, I think he'll jump on board. It's down to numbers and how many tight ends UT takes in 2018. He might make it back for the Texas Tech game.
Luke Ford. "It was awesome," said Ford, one of the nation's top TEs. "Just like last time. Austin is great." It's hard to get a read here because Ford is really just an enthusiastic kid who loves playing football. Conventional wisdom says Alabama and Georgia lead this recruitment. But yet Ford continues to talk UT. Nick Saban and Kirby Smart's 2018 tight end takes here will be the biggest factor, IMO.
Vernon Jackson. I caught up with the Boling DE/ATH this weekend and, if Texas wanted his attention, they got it. The Alabama pledge tells me he's been talking to Texas lately, and seeing the Longhorns was a plus. There's scuttle Saban might be telling Jackson to look around, and if so, UT would probably take him. He's a fantastic athlete that @josephcook and I watched play in the 2A state championship last winter. He's a defensive end, probably WDE, and the Horns could use all the linemen they can get.
DaShaun White. The latest word on White is that he's still actually in Austin. They were on campus until 7pm last night. We've mentioned he's close to Texas commit, Byron Hobbs. That's putting it mildly. Hobbs and his family have some persuasion here with the A&M commit. I don't want to think about the fact if UT offers last summer he's probably already a Horn. Just know White has always loved the Longhorns and that coach Orlando is putting on the full-court press. Eric will have more on White soon.
Tamauzia Brown. I told y'all to remember the name. This kid is dynamite. The 4-star athlete out of Newton has seen the Horns play a couple of times this season. Each visit is better than the last. "I got to talk to the WR coach Mehringer and some of the players," said Brown. "(Texas) said they don't know where to put me because I'm really good on both sides of the ball. They said I might actually play both."
If any athlete in-state for 2019 can play both ways, it's Brown. He'll have double-digit offers before the end of Spring. I'll catch him and the Eagles face off against Arp and the Fighting Overshowns on Thursday night in San Augustine. Damn that's a drive, but totally worth it.
Lufkin Panthers - Carl Williams, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Breylon Garcia. Williams (DT) and Garcia (DE/OLB) are junior prospects while Polk (WR/CB/anywhere) is just a sophomore. All three can play big-time D1. The group has OU and Oklahoma State offers among them and I'll have a separate post on the Lufkin trio later this week.
It would behoove the Texas staff to get in good with HC John Quick and the Panthers program. The place that delivered Dez Bryant, Reggie McNeal, Javorskie Lane, Keke Coutee, and Carrington Byndom is usually stocked with talent. The underclassmen in this school are stout. They face Rockwall-Heath in the 1st round of the 6A Texas HS football playoffs on Friday.
For the record, they loved the Austin visit. All three of them.
Per EJ @ 247
— Texas is working with four-star Salt Lake City East (UT) offensive lineman Junior Angilau to get him on campus for an official visit during its final regular season game against Texas Tech. However, nothing is officially locked in. If Angilau doesn't make it in this month, we do expect him to take his OV after this season. Texas is still very high on his list, and the Longhorns could really put themselves in a prime position to land him with a successful visit.
— Last week, we mentioned that former Alabama offensive line commit Jarrett Bell was on the radar. The Longhorns are starting to show more interest in him and should get him on campus for an official visit. Bell was originally going to be an early enrollee, but that is no longer the case, so Texas has time to continue to evaluate him and build a stronger relationship. It wouldn't be surprising to see the Longhorns extend an offer down the line.
— One name to keep an eye on is Arizona Western C.C. offensive lineman Jahmir Johnson. Texas has been in contact with the JUCO product, and he could be an option if things don't start to look better with Badara Traore, who is leaning LSU. Johnson holds offers from Arkansas, Missouri, Ole Miss, USC, West Virginia and others. Texas is familiar recruiting Arizona Western C.C., which is home to former commit Dominick Wood-Anderson.
— Looking ahead to the 2019 class, Texas is in a really good spot for Houston North Forest offensive tackle Javonne Shepherd. I am continuing to hear that this will be a Texas-Texas A&M race. The Texas staff has made Shepherd a priority in the 2019 class and will host hm for a visit after the season.
— Texas is working with four-star Salt Lake City East (UT) offensive lineman Junior Angilau to get him on campus for an official visit during its final regular season game against Texas Tech. However, nothing is officially locked in. If Angilau doesn't make it in this month, we do expect him to take his OV after this season. Texas is still very high on his list, and the Longhorns could really put themselves in a prime position to land him with a successful visit.
— Last week, we mentioned that former Alabama offensive line commit Jarrett Bell was on the radar. The Longhorns are starting to show more interest in him and should get him on campus for an official visit. Bell was originally going to be an early enrollee, but that is no longer the case, so Texas has time to continue to evaluate him and build a stronger relationship. It wouldn't be surprising to see the Longhorns extend an offer down the line.
— One name to keep an eye on is Arizona Western C.C. offensive lineman Jahmir Johnson. Texas has been in contact with the JUCO product, and he could be an option if things don't start to look better with Badara Traore, who is leaning LSU. Johnson holds offers from Arkansas, Missouri, Ole Miss, USC, West Virginia and others. Texas is familiar recruiting Arizona Western C.C., which is home to former commit Dominick Wood-Anderson.
— Looking ahead to the 2019 class, Texas is in a really good spot for Houston North Forest offensive tackle Javonne Shepherd. I am continuing to hear that this will be a Texas-Texas A&M race. The Texas staff has made Shepherd a priority in the 2019 class and will host hm for a visit after the season.
Two extra notes on WR Terrace Marshall of Bossier City, LA and more quotes from his father (The Football Brainiacs).
-Marshall will sign with his school of choice on December 22nd.
-Marshall's family plans on moving with him wherever he goes.
“It was just off the charts. I didn’t know what to expect coming into it but it was a A+ visit. They topped Texas A&M and Florida State visits. I mean, Texas A&M, now, they did a good job too but yeah, I’d say Texas was the best visit”.
“Knowing how Herman likes to air it out. They’re bringing in two of the best quarterbacks and Terrace already knows Casey (Thompson). They (the staff) know right now the program isn’t where they want to it be but look at the class they’re bringing. They want to get their guys in there.”
“Baton Rouge can’t compare to Austin. I loved Austin. I’ve got a cousin who stays in Austin. I don’t go out much but if we move to Austin I may have to start going out”.
-Marshall will sign with his school of choice on December 22nd.
-Marshall's family plans on moving with him wherever he goes.
“It was just off the charts. I didn’t know what to expect coming into it but it was a A+ visit. They topped Texas A&M and Florida State visits. I mean, Texas A&M, now, they did a good job too but yeah, I’d say Texas was the best visit”.
“Knowing how Herman likes to air it out. They’re bringing in two of the best quarterbacks and Terrace already knows Casey (Thompson). They (the staff) know right now the program isn’t where they want to it be but look at the class they’re bringing. They want to get their guys in there.”
“Baton Rouge can’t compare to Austin. I loved Austin. I’ve got a cousin who stays in Austin. I don’t go out much but if we move to Austin I may have to start going out”.
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