Are the Longhorns ready?

[KT2000]

Are the Horns ready for the Big XII gauntlet? If yes, why? If not, why? BCS or .com Bowl?

I like what I've seen so far, but it would have been nice to see Texas against a quality team. The running game and defense were everyone's biggest questions in the pre-season. I think those questions remain since we haven't seen the team really challenged yet. And there's also the question of whether or not Colt McCoy can be the man over the course of a full season. Will he get it done in crunch time?

Colorado will be a good test to find out exactly where this Texas team stands with the meat of the Big 12 schedule looming. The Buffs have played well so far this season and earned a quality win over West Virginia. Texas has been one of the best road teams in the country under Mack Brown, and this is obviously a game they have to win. I think the Horns need to impress with OU on deck.

[Firebird]

I see Texas losing to OU. Missouri will be tough, that is a toss up right now, we'll know more about both teams after two Big XII games. If they beat Mizzou and Mizzou gets thumped by OU in the CCG, Texas will sneak into a BCS bowl. If Mizzou wins and plays well or beats OU in the CCG, it's Holiday Bowl time.

I think they have the hosses to throw a scare into OU, but I think the Dirt Burglars will come up with the W in the end.

In other words, business as usual.

[Favpack]

I've been critical of the Horns this summer. Thus far, I give them an A, maybe even an A+. Colt has been unreal - scary good. The D has been suspect at times - but certainly good enough.

As you mentioned - they haven't played a quality team yet, but one would think Arkansas would not crater like they have.

I predict a solid win over the Buffs, but a loss to the Sooners. From there - I think we'll see good things - assuming no injuries.

[StrongDog]

The Horns have their work cut out for them, no doubt. The next three should determine how the Horns will come out. The trip to Lubbock is no cakewalk either. I think that the offense looks good, especially if McCoy continues to play well. He has thrown the ball well and made some plays with his feet when he had to.

I really like Muschamp, he had been a good addition to the staff, but still waiting to see how the D will perform in Big XII play.

[amc1034]

ou is the best team in the big12 no doubt. texas mizzou should be a good one and i see tech givin the longhorns a run for thier money that is if harrell tightens up some screws on the red raiders offense

[Maroondog]

If the Horns can beat OU they could get on a roll and be hard to deal with.

We will find out pretty quick.

[Firebird]

Are the Horns ready for the Big XII gauntlet? If yes, why? If not, why? BCS or .com Bowl?

I like what I've seen so far, but it would have been nice to see Texas against a quality team. The running game and defense were everyone's biggest questions in the pre-season. I think those questions remain since we haven't seen the team really challenged yet. And there's also the question of whether or not Colt McCoy can be the man over the course of a full season. Will he get it done in crunch time?

Colorado will be a good test to find out exactly where this Texas team stands with the meat of the Big 12 schedule looming. The Buffs have played well so far this season and earned a quality win over West Virginia. Texas has been one of the best road teams in the country under Mack Brown, and this is obviously a game they have to win. I think the Horns need to impress with OU on deck.

This is the key thing. If the defense is indeed fixed, UT could play for the NC. If not, then things can get ugly against OU. It's too bad Arkie is so terrible, because that game should have been a good litmus test.

[BDB]

This is the key thing. If the defense is indeed fixed, UT could play for the NC. If not, then things can get ugly against OU. It's too bad Arkie is so terrible, because that game should have been a good litmus test.

that's what i was hoping for. even for old SWC rivalry hopes.

i dont think that "lack" of running game is going to kill us, simply because the RB's (as of right now) are playing in shifts with each player as a specific role. i would LOVE to see 1 back emerge and take the thrown, but as long as they can pick up a first and take pressure off colt it doesn't matter to me their personal stats.

the secondary is looking better, and DL is scary. as of right now i am hesitantly content with the D, and as long as the OL keeps up it's blocking for colt, i like the offenses chances of moving the ball on anyone.

[pied]

Secondary is looking better and the non-conf schedule was a good one preparing for ou/col/ok st/tech/missouri. Rice/FAU in top 15 in pass attempts and Arkansas not too far behind.

Don't know that it predicts success, but it's better than playing a triple option team for example.

If you offered me a 2-1 record over the next three games, I'd be very tempted to take it and run.

[Firebird]

Secondary is looking better and the non-conf schedule was a good one preparing for ou/col/ok st/tech/missouri. Rice/FAU in top 15 in pass attempts and Arkansas not too far behind.

Don't know that it predicts success, but it's better than playing a triple option team for example.

If you offered me a 2-1 record over the next three games, I'd be very tempted to take it and run.

Except for the whole not sucking part.;)

J/K. I think the Horns are strong this year, but OU is gonna be a tough nut to crack. You'll beat Colorado, and I would take you at home against Mizzou..

[farmerfan]

Secondary is looking better and the non-conf schedule was a good one preparing for ou/col/ok st/tech/missouri. Rice/FAU in top 15 in pass attempts and Arkansas not too far behind.

Don't know that it predicts success, but it's better than playing a triple option team for example.

If you offered me a 2-1 record over the next three games, I'd be very tempted to take it and run.

Farmers strategy in college football top gun over the next 3 weeks would be to pick Texas going 3-0 in those games.
Its what he plans on doing to take the lead over Pied (that is if Pied does not pick Texas in any of those games)

[farmerfan]

Except for the whole not sucking part.;)

J/K. I think the Horns are strong this year, but OU is gonna be a tough nut to crack. You'll beat Colorado, and I would take you at home against Mizzou..

Absolutely agre withyou about picking Tx at home over Mizzou. I'm still not convinced in the Mizzou D for them to be taken seriously as a NC contender.

[pied]

Farmers strategy in college football top gun over the next 3 weeks would be to pick Texas going 3-0 in those games.
Its what he plans on doing to take the lead over Pied (that is if Pied does not pick Texas in any of those games)

Note to all of those behind me in the pickem game.

I WILL ALWAYS PICK TEXAS.

Especially helpful for those in charge of choosing the games to pick. May not be rational, but I can't afford any bad mojo in regards to Texas.

[KT2000]

J/K. I think the Horns are strong this year, but OU is gonna be a tough nut to crack. You'll beat Colorado, and I would take you at home against Mizzou..

The Mizzou game worries me more than Oklahoma. Daniel will be aiming for 600 in that one. I'm much more comfortable with Texas at neutral/road venues against quality opponents.

[farmerfan]

Note to all of those behind me in the pickem game.

I WILL ALWAYS PICK TEXAS.

Especially helpful for those in charge of choosing the games to pick. May not be rational, but I can't afford any bad mojo in regards to Texas.

That strategy got me in trouble with Georgia last week and could possibly cost me another game or two as the season progresses

[HUM398]

Are the Horns ready for the Big XII gauntlet? If yes, why? If not, why? BCS or .com Bowl?

I like what I've seen so far, but it would have been nice to see Texas against a quality team. The running game and defense were everyone's biggest questions in the pre-season. I think those questions remain since we haven't seen the team really challenged yet. And there's also the question of whether or not Colt McCoy can be the man over the course of a full season. Will he get it done in crunch time?

Colorado will be a good test to find out exactly where this Texas team stands with the meat of the Big 12 schedule looming. The Buffs have played well so far this season and earned a quality win over West Virginia. Texas has been one of the best road teams in the country under Mack Brown, and this is obviously a game they have to win. I think the Horns need to impress with OU on deck.

We will see.

I am really hoping Fozzy becomes a bigger member of the offense. he has shown more then McGee, and could be that back we need. Cody Johnson is a great tough yard back. With Colt running for 50-90 yards per game, it just makes it that much harder to figure out what we will do if we find that back (i think its fozzy).

Our defense is still young, but i think Colorado will be what we need to really see our bend but not break factor. They are young, but have shown glimpses of greatness.

Im not worried, and i think we can edge out a very good ou team.

[gtown04]

Note to all of those behind me in the pickem game.

I WILL ALWAYS PICK TEXAS.

Especially helpful for those in charge of choosing the games to pick. May not be rational, but I can't afford any bad mojo in regards to Texas.


I do the same thing, so don't have to worry about me gaining on you if Texas loses. I'd rather go 0-5 during a week than pick against Texas.

[ThEgReAtOnE]

Sat, Oct 4 at Colorado
Sat, Oct 11 at (1) Oklahoma
Sat, Oct 18 (4) Missouri
Sat, Oct 25 (21) Oklahoma State
Sat, Nov 1 at (7) Texas Tech
Sat, Nov 8 Baylor
Sat, Nov 15 at (16) Kansas
Thu, Nov 27 Texas A&M

Texas may arguably have the toughest schedule in the country, outside of Georgia. Colorado upset then #21 West Virginia, at home. On the road, at FSU, they scored 3 offensive tds... the same amount of offensive tds that FSU scored. (FSU also had 3 fg's, 1 defensive td and a special teams td.) Colorado don't like to lose at home and will be the Longhorns toughest test, yet.

Lets just say OU and Texas will be a war, considering the jury is still out on the potential of both squads. It's a toss up, IMO. I can honestly say (especially if texas beats Colorado, soundly) that I can see Texas beating OU. Both teams need to be mistake free.

Mizzou and Okie Lite don't play excellent away, but both teams will be more than a handful. If Texas beats Colorado and OU, the Mizzou game will be outstanding. If Texas loses to either OU or Colo (or both) the Mizzou game could be a long day for UT... not because Texas is bad. IMO, Texas plays on emotional tides. They don't get up for every game they way they should. When they feel they're playing for nothing or a .com Bowl, they'll pretty much just coast through the rest of the season and ALLOW A&M to beat them. (OU plays emotional, too.)

Outside of playing OU, playing in Lubbock will undoubtedly be the toughest game on their schedule. Tech's defense is much better than people suspect and the Longhorns should have an identity (especially in the Secondary, Receiving core and at RB) by then.

Playing at Kansas will be a trap game for Texas, especially if they're still undefeated. Either way, Kansas will have to play mistake-free. To be honest, I see Kansas reverting back to the likes of a 7-5 or 6-6 record. I mean Sam Houston State put up 400 yds of offense on KU and the score was 14-28 midway through the 3rd Qtr. They have OU, Tech, Texas and Mizzou of which I predict all to be losses for them. Then count Colorado, K-State and @ Nebraska. Anyhow, I see Texas thumping KU, if they play mistake free football.

Let me say this LOUD and CLEAR.... Texas will beat the dogs--- out of the Aggies, this year. You don't struggle with Army and New Mexico State, lose to Arkansas State and get embarrassed by 18 freakin' true freshmen starters at Miami and think you're going to challenge the likes of Texas. That's a pipedream!

Are the Longhorns ready?? It doesn't matter if they are or not, the Beastly XII Gauntlet is'a coming!

[pied]

Sat, Oct 4 at Colorado
Sat, Oct 11 at (1) Oklahoma
Sat, Oct 18 (4) Missouri
Sat, Oct 25 (21) Oklahoma State
Sat, Nov 1 at (7) Texas Tech
Sat, Nov 8 Baylor
Sat, Nov 15 at (16) Kansas
Thu, Nov 27 Texas A&M

Texas may arguably have the toughest schedule in the country, outside of Georgia. Colorado upset then #21 West Virginia, at home. On the road, at FSU, they scored 3 offensive tds... the same amount of offensive tds that FSU scored. (FSU also had 3 fg's, 1 defensive td and a special teams td.) Colorado don't like to lose at home and will be the Longhorns toughest test, yet.

Lets just say OU and Texas will be a war, considering the jury is still out on the potential of both squads. It's a toss up, IMO. I can honestly say (especially if texas beats Colorado, soundly) that I can see Texas beating OU. Both teams need to be mistake free.

Mizzou and Okie Lite don't play excellent away, but both teams will be more than a handful. If Texas beats Colorado and OU, the Mizzou game will be outstanding. If Texas loses to either OU or Colo (or both) the Mizzou game could be a long day for UT... not because Texas is bad. IMO, Texas plays on emotional tides. They don't get up for every game they way they should. When they feel they're playing for nothing or a .com Bowl, they'll pretty much just coast through the rest of the season and ALLOW A&M to beat them. (OU plays emotional, too.)

Outside of playing OU, playing in Lubbock will undoubtedly be the toughest game on their schedule. Tech's defense is much better than people suspect and the Longhorns should have an identity (especially in the Secondary, Receiving core and at RB) by then.


I'd add okie state to that list. Houston's no slouch, but the rest of the non conf, Texas > okie state.

conf schedule:

a$m
@ Missouri
Baylor
@ Texas
Iowa State
@ Texas Tech
@ Colorado
ou


they get the three lowest ranked conf teams at home and play on the road at three top ten schools. yikes

[LeanderLions3033]

I do like what i've seen so far from them this year, but i honestly can't see them making the leap and getting to a BCS bowl. Not because they aren't good enough....hell not even because they arent the 2nd best team in the conference, but i just can't see how they get out of this gauntlet of a schedule. I see them losing 3 of the following games. Nothing more, and nothing less.

@ CU
vs OU #1
vs Mizzou #4
vs OK state #21
@ Tech #7
@ KU #16

I think that they are a better TEAM than everybody on that list except for OU, but with lack of a running game, and an inexperienced secondary who i see costing us at least 1 game, i just don't see how they get out of that stretch at better than 3-3. IMO Texas has the hardest conference schedule that they have EVER had under Mack Browns tenure, and may be the hardest remaining schedule of any team in america. Just seems like alot for a team with an unproven run game and a inexperienced secondary.

[jtk1519]

Has anybody seen how many underclassmen Texas is playing this year? They will learn under fire, but they will learn. The quality of opponent has not been good so far, but we have seen very strong, tangible improvement. I expect much the same. I don't really care about the record.

[HUM398]

I do like what i've seen so far from them this year, but i honestly can't see them making the leap and getting to a BCS bowl. Not because they aren't good enough....hell not even because they arent the 2nd best team in the conference, but i just can't see how they get out of this gauntlet of a schedule. I see them losing 3 of the following games. Nothing more, and nothing less.

@ CU
vs OU #1
vs Mizzou #4
vs OK state #21
@ Tech #7
@ KU #16

I think that they are a better TEAM than everybody on that list except for OU, but with lack of a running game, and an inexperienced secondary who i see costing us at least 1 game, i just don't see how they get out of that stretch at better than 3-3. IMO Texas has the hardest conference schedule that they have EVER had under Mack Browns tenure, and may be the hardest remaining schedule of any team in america. Just seems like alot for a team with an unproven run game and a inexperienced secondary.

The thing is that our Offense is good enough to bail out the secondary when and if they mess up. Last season we couldn't fight back because our offensive line was so young and inexperienced, and the lack of protection sent McCoy scrambling for his life.

This year we have arguably the best offensive line in the conference, maybe even the nation...Colt is bigger, stronger, and faster then last season...Which only helps his game, because before he a minor threat to break a play with his legs against scrubs...but he is a legit threat to any defense.

The Longhorns this season are what i like to call the perfect storm. Do they have flaws...yes, can they overcome them...of course. We are on course to have one of the best offensive units (stat wise) that we have ever had. Colt has been flawless...He looks really good...and that should scare a lot of people. We haven't seen what the Longhorns can really do, as soon as that number 3 WR Emerges (which he hasn't had to, because no one has even come close to being able to handle what we throw at them as of now) then you are really going to see them roll. I am also pretty confident that Fozzy is the back that Texas is looking for. He posses that big play capability that the other 3 backs don't have...

I hope they just keep their eyes on the goal...This team picked up where they left off last season. and the talent is disgusting...

[HUM398]

Has anybody seen how many underclassmen Texas is playing this year? They will learn under fire, but they will learn. The quality of opponent has not been good so far, but we have seen very strong, tangible improvement. I expect much the same. I don't really care about the record.

You are a digital dong.

[jtk1519]

You are a digital dong.

In your Mother's face.

[HUM398]

In your Mother's face.

My mother is a lovely women....

[jtk1519]

My mother is a lovely women....

...with a digital dong in here face.

[theTrutHurts]

No way Leander
They are going to win all of those games, and Fozzy is going to step up and become the explosive running back the offense has lacked thus far.
If the defense can get pressure on the Qb, this will obviously help the "unexperienced" secondary. I like Gideon; he seems intelligent and is a coach's son. #4 impressed me. The corners may have a couple of rough games, but corner is probably the hardest position to play on the defensive side of the ball (not taking anything away from the physical play of the defensive line and the stamina it takes for those big men to give it all they have for four quarters)
The little Colorado running back will be a good test for the D this week, and Cody Hawkins is a solid, intelligent player. I don't think they have anyone the secondary is too scared of as far as a big play, burner WR. WVU probably should have beaten them...Devine's helmet was under maintenance on a big play in OT, and he was killing them on that stretch play Pat White is not throwing the ball or making as good of decisions as McCoy (nor is he getting a chance to throw the ball as much) They do play well in Boulder, but I still expect a W
Oklahoma is another story....they have a lot of weapons...Gresham is a match up problem, #85 Broyles is a burner Iglesias and Johnson are solid WRs manuel johnson had 3 td's over 50 yards last week (ridiculous) Tennell is 6'5 but hasn't looked as good as he did in high school
Bradford, Murray, and Brown - arguably the best backfield in the nation
not too impressive statistics from the RBs against TCU 26 carries combined for 50 yards OU defense is solid as usual
Missouri - I would expect the Horns to try to take away Maclin. Coffman is Daniel's second favorite target, and he is big but we have athletes, haven't seen a whole lot of Mizzou this year, but the key is to get pressure on Daniel and contain Maclin and Coffman
Missouri's D - still a work in progress

I'm not going to speculate about any games past that

[stevefoxsc]

The Mizzou game worries me more than Oklahoma. Daniel will be aiming for 600 in that one. I'm much more comfortable with Texas at neutral/road venues against quality opponents.

not to mention its an opportunity to beat the school that he wanted to go to, turned down for that bayou ****** bag, to only turn us down later on.

[KT2000]

not to mention its an opportunity to beat the school that he wanted to go to, turned down for that bayou ****** bag, to only turn us down later on.

Hence my aiming for 600 comment. Chase is going to try and win the Heisman against Texas, and I don't blame him.

[HUM398]

Hence my aiming for 600 comment. Chase is going to try and win the Heisman against Texas, and I don't blame him.

BRING IT. JTK is waiting to stick a digital dong in his face.

[tayb]

Will have a much better grasp of where Texas stands and their chances the rest of the season after this Saturday. Up until this point only Alabama and LSU have proven anything on the field that could translate into the rest of the season. Paying teams to take their beatings hardly constitutes as proof of how well a season will go. Texas could go undefeated or they could lose three of their next four games and honestly the same could go for Oklahoma. Just too early to tell how well either of these teams are truly put together.

[HUM398]

Will have a much better grasp of where Texas stands and their chances the rest of the season after this Saturday. Up until this point only Alabama and LSU have proven anything on the field that could translate into the rest of the season. Paying teams to take their beatings hardly constitutes as proof of how well a season will go. Texas could go undefeated or they could lose three of their next four games and honestly the same could go for Oklahoma. Just too early to tell how well either of these teams are truly put together.

DIG-IT-AL DONG!

[jrock210]

Sat, Oct 4 at Colorado
Sat, Oct 11 at (1) Oklahoma
Sat, Oct 18 (4) Missouri
Sat, Oct 25 (21) Oklahoma State
Sat, Nov 1 at (7) Texas Tech
Sat, Nov 8 Baylor
Sat, Nov 15 at (16) Kansas
Thu, Nov 27 Texas A&M

Texas may arguably have the toughest schedule in the country, outside of Georgia. Colorado upset then #21 West Virginia, at home. On the road, at FSU, they scored 3 offensive tds... the same amount of offensive tds that FSU scored. (FSU also had 3 fg's, 1 defensive td and a special teams td.) Colorado don't like to lose at home and will be the Longhorns toughest test, yet.

Lets just say OU and Texas will be a war, considering the jury is still out on the potential of both squads. It's a toss up, IMO. I can honestly say (especially if texas beats Colorado, soundly) that I can see Texas beating OU. Both teams need to be mistake free.

Mizzou and Okie Lite don't play excellent away, but both teams will be more than a handful. If Texas beats Colorado and OU, the Mizzou game will be outstanding. If Texas loses to either OU or Colo (or both) the Mizzou game could be a long day for UT... not because Texas is bad. IMO, Texas plays on emotional tides. They don't get up for every game they way they should. When they feel they're playing for nothing or a .com Bowl, they'll pretty much just coast through the rest of the season and ALLOW A&M to beat them. (OU plays emotional, too.)

Outside of playing OU, playing in Lubbock will undoubtedly be the toughest game on their schedule. Tech's defense is much better than people suspect and the Longhorns should have an identity (especially in the Secondary, Receiving core and at RB) by then.

Playing at Kansas will be a trap game for Texas, especially if they're still undefeated. Either way, Kansas will have to play mistake-free. To be honest, I see Kansas reverting back to the likes of a 7-5 or 6-6 record. I mean Sam Houston State put up 400 yds of offense on KU and the score was 14-28 midway through the 3rd Qtr. They have OU, Tech, Texas and Mizzou of which I predict all to be losses for them. Then count Colorado, K-State and @ Nebraska. Anyhow, I see Texas thumping KU, if they play mistake free football.

Let me say this LOUD and CLEAR.... Texas will beat the dogs--- out of the Aggies, this year. You don't struggle with Army and New Mexico State, lose to Arkansas State and get embarrassed by 18 freakin' true freshmen starters at Miami and think you're going to challenge the likes of Texas. That's a pipedream!

Are the Longhorns ready?? It doesn't matter if they are or not, the Beastly XII Gauntlet is'a coming!
WOW!
You...my friend....hit the nail on the head with that one (had to use a Judson vs Wagner pun so close to the game) and you made a great point. Colt has been doing some amazing stuff and he continues to impress. Alot of people are doubting him outside of Texas and that can help us because if people look at him as just another QB they will have a rude awakening coming to them.

I have noticed this time and time again and IMO after the Colorado and OU game, Texas' toughest game IMO will be Okie Light for one simple reason. Comeback....VY started it and Colt continued it last year. Can Texas be down 20 at half and roll through the 2nd half and pull off a miracle to beat the Cowboys? If they can then hat will be something you worry about. This entire schedule makes me happy I can watch Texas' games because they are so amazing matches. Texas can have possibly 3 match ups where the Horns and their opponents are in the Top 5 in the game and if Texas wins out and 2 other teams do the same and Texas isn't playing in the BCS National Championship the BCS won't fail. But if it's anything like 05 Texas should be happy!

[yankee]

ou/mizzou/kansas/tech are going to have field days against tu's secondary...bradford, daniel, reesing, harrell? i'm not sure about the order of the games but wow, that is f'n scary...

[tayb]

ou/mizzou/kansas/tech are going to have field days against tu's secondary...bradford, daniel, reesing, harrell? i'm not sure about the order of the games but wow, that is f'n scary...

I know... sort of like last year... when the UT secondary was way worse than it was this year... and it caused Texas to lose exactly zero games...

[Firebird]

I know... sort of like last year... when the UT secondary was way worse than it was this year... and it caused Texas to lose exactly zero games...

Does that include the game against a certain university across the prarie when the Horns gave up 362 passing yards, 9.5 yards per attempt, and three touchdowns through the air?:rolleyes:

You can't point fingers at any one unit for any of Texas' losses but I am guessing Brown and Co. were plenty dissatsified with their DBs after the A&M game. Maybe not, though, 'cause to hear y'all tell it you won that game.

[tayb]

Does that include the game against a certain university across the prarie when the Horns gave up 362 passing yards, 9.5 yards per attempt, and three touchdowns through the air?:rolleyes:

You can't point fingers at any one unit for any of Texas' losses but I am guessing Brown and Co. were plenty dissatsified with their DBs after the A&M game. Maybe not, though, 'cause to hear y'all tell it you won that game.

Yeah and another 180 yards of offense on the ground as well as holding the ball only 19 minutes of the game. That loss was a defensive melt down of epic proportions it certainly wasn't the pass defense that caused Texas to lose the game because A&M imposed their well on the ground as well.

Tech managed 460 yards through the air and FIVE touchdowns and the pass defense still didn't cause us to lose that game.

[Firebird]

Yeah and another 180 yards of offense on the ground as well as holding the ball only 19 minutes of the game. That loss was a defensive melt down of epic proportions it certainly wasn't the pass defense that caused Texas to lose the game because A&M imposed their well on the ground as well.

Tech managed 460 yards through the air and FIVE touchdowns and the pass defense still didn't cause us to lose that game.

Sorry, no sale. That game was not so much the pass defense not losing as your offense winning without help. Re: A&M, like I said, you can't point the finger at any one unit and say they caused you to lose any game. The offense didn't help you out either, as they failed to step up the way they did against Tech. Still, the most salient feature of that game is the number of passing yards and scores you gave up. Had your secondary been decent, that probably wouldn't have happened.

[tayb]

Sorry, no sale. That game was not so much the pass defense not losing as your offense winning without help. Re: A&M, like I said, you can't point the finger at any one unit and say they caused you to lose any game. The offense didn't help you out either, as they failed to step up the way they did against Tech. Still, the most salient feature of that game is the number of passing yards and scores you gave up. Had your secondary been decent, that probably wouldn't have happened.

The best defense is a good offense.

And no, I disagree. A&M ran the ball a total of 48 times that game and held control of the ball 40 of the 60 minutes. If you look at the scoring drives A&M pounded and pounded on the ground then threw up a random bomb for a score, not the other way around. The UT offense never got a chance to play catch up because they were never on the field.

[lonny23]

The best defense is a good offense.

And no, I disagree. A&M ran the ball a total of 48 times that game and held control of the ball 40 of the 60 minutes. If you look at the scoring drives A&M pounded and pounded on the ground then threw up a random bomb for a score, not the other way around. The UT offense never got a chance to play catch up because they were never on the field.
There's a flaw in your argument. You get more fatigued as a DB playing passing teams because you run more. The clock stops more, but you spend more game time running than playing a running team. Passing teams don't use as much clock because pass plays eat up bigger chunks, but those teams still make you run a lot on D. Running the ball and then beating people deep is still an indictment of a team's pass defense.

[Firebird]

The best defense is a good offense.

And no, I disagree. A&M ran the ball a total of 48 times that game and held control of the ball 40 of the 60 minutes. If you look at the scoring drives A&M pounded and pounded on the ground then threw up a random bomb for a score, not the other way around. The UT offense never got a chance to play catch up because they were never on the field.

You mean like the first scoring drive, where A&M ran twice for a total of 3 yards and passed four times for a total of 71?

The first FG drive, where A&M rushed for 47 yards on 7 tries and attempted 8 passes for 38 yards?

The third TD drive where A&M rushed 5 times for a total of 25 yards and completed 5 passes for 85 yards?

And then of course the two "random bombs" which came on drives of two and four yards respectively.

Yeah, you're right. Pass defense didn't have much to do with that loss. A&M only scored when they just ground out the clock and threw up random bombs. Keep talking, I'm very interested in how you explain this away.

[Firebird]

There's a flaw in your argument. You get more fatigued as a DB playing passing teams because you run more. The clock stops more, but you spend more game time running than playing a running team. Passing teams don't use as much clock because pass plays eat up bigger chunks, but those teams still make you run a lot on D. Running the ball and then beating people deep is still an indictment of a team's pass defense.

The other flaw is his memory of the actual game.

[lonny23]

The other flaw is his memory of the actual game.
I didn't watch the whole game, but what I saw was Texas' defense never could stop A&M long enough to catch up. It didn't matter if they were running or passing.

Besides, it's not really a ringing endorsement to try to diminish what A&M did by saying, "They were passing." McGee going for 362 is an indictment when Fran is the coach. Quite a few people said Fran didn't throw the ball enough. I don't think McGee threw more than 2 balls in excess of 10 yards down the field against Tech last year.

Here is the boxscore with a link to the play-by-play.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/boxscore?gameId=273270245

[jtk1519]

I will respectfully disagree with My Longhorn brother and say that the pass defense has cost Texas 2 games in the past 2 seasons... '06 vs. Kansas State and '07 vs A&M. Stephen McGee had such a big game vs. the Horns because the CBs insisted on giving them a 10 yard cushion on every play. Even A&M's WRs can make plays with a 10 yard cushion.

The one thing I have noticed different in BoomMFers' defense is that he plays a lot more press coverage and like to jam the WRs at the line... something Akina rarely did.

As for lonny's point... he's wrong... go figure. Texas' DBs can handle Tech's passing game (to an extent because they are always going to get their yards) because... One: Texas plays a base zone defense which by it's very nature means the DBs don't run as much as... Two: Tech doesn't throw deep enough for it to matter. The DBs aren't running any further to cover a bubble screen than they do a toss sweep... Finally: Tech's offense doesn't chew up much game clock, but it chews up a tone of "real" time which gives the DBs a break they otherwise wouldn't get.

[jrock210]

I will respectfully disagree with My Longhorn brother and say that the pass defense has cost Texas 2 games in the past 2 seasons... '06 vs. Kansas State and '07 vs A&M. Stephen McGee had such a big game vs. the Horns because the CBs insisted on giving them a 10 yard cushion on every play. Even A&M's WRs can make plays with a 10 yard cushion.

The one thing I have noticed different in BoomMFers' defense is that he plays a lot more press coverage and like to jam the WRs at the line... something Akina rarely did.

As for lonny's point... he's wrong... go figure. Texas' DBs can handle Tech's passing game (to an extent because they are always going to get their yards) because... One: Texas plays a base zone defense which by it's very nature means the DBs don't run as much as... Two: Tech doesn't throw deep enough for it to matter. The DBs aren't running any further to cover a bubble screen than they do a toss sweep... Finally: Tech's offense doesn't chew up much game clock, but it chews up a tone of "real" time which gives the DBs a break they otherwise wouldn't get.

Usually I'm scared to read anything posted by jtk but I actually....agree with him...now where is my puke icon when I need it?

[yankee]

I know... sort of like last year... when the UT secondary was way worse than it was this year... and it caused Texas to lose exactly zero games...

texas facing a bit of a harder schedule here...

[lonny23]

I will respectfully disagree with My Longhorn brother and say that the pass defense has cost Texas 2 games in the past 2 seasons... '06 vs. Kansas State and '07 vs A&M. Stephen McGee had such a big game vs. the Horns because the CBs insisted on giving them a 10 yard cushion on every play. Even A&M's WRs can make plays with a 10 yard cushion.

The one thing I have noticed different in BoomMFers' defense is that he plays a lot more press coverage and like to jam the WRs at the line... something Akina rarely did.

As for lonny's point... he's wrong... go figure. Texas' DBs can handle Tech's passing game (to an extent because they are always going to get their yards) because... One: Texas plays a base zone defense which by it's very nature means the DBs don't run as much as... Two: Tech doesn't throw deep enough for it to matter. The DBs aren't running any further to cover a bubble screen than they do a toss sweep... Finally: Tech's offense doesn't chew up much game clock, but it chews up a tone of "real" time which gives the DBs a break they otherwise wouldn't get.Pick a sermon that applies to what I said. I've said nothing in this thread about Texas vs. Texas Tech. I said throwing deep wears out a DB more and I said A&M didn't even come close to trying to stretch the field vs. Tech last year. I have not discussed one bit of info about Texas matching up with Tech. YOU'RE WRONG!:D

[jtk1519]

Pick a sermon that applies to what I said. I've said nothing in this thread about Texas vs. Texas Tech. I said throwing deep wears out a DB more and I said A&M didn't even come close to trying to stretch the field vs. Tech last year. I have not discussed one bit of info about Texas matching up with Tech. YOU'RE WRONG!:D

You said...

There's a flaw in your argument. You get more fatigued as a DB playing passing teams because you run more. The clock stops more, but you spend more game time running than playing a running team. Passing teams don't use as much clock because pass plays eat up bigger chunks, but those teams still make you run a lot on D. Running the ball and then beating people deep is still an indictment of a team's pass defense.

I just used Tech as an example of a team that passes a lot and why you were wrong. No team, be it Tech or A&M or USC or whoever will beat Texas by tiring down the DBs for the reasons I mentioned. Depth is another reason that I didn't even bother mentioning.

[LeanderLions3033]

I know... sort of like last year... when the UT secondary was way worse than it was this year... and it caused Texas to lose exactly zero games...

As much as it has been beaten into your head already in this thread, this statement couldnt be anymore false. First of all, how could you come to the assumption through 4 that last years secondary was "way worse" than this years secondary when this secondary features 2 freshman safetys who havent played a down against a team thats gonna be competing for a big 12 title. And 2nd, like it was previously mentioned, the 06 k state game was a comlete meltdown by our secondary, and the 07 A&M game where Stephen McGee played like Dan Marino, there was no communication in the secondary.

[theTrutHurts]

ou/mizzou/kansas/tech are going to have field days against tu's secondary...bradford, daniel, reesing, harrell? i'm not sure about the order of the games but wow, that is f'n scary...


What is scary is Orakpo and Kindle coming at you while you're trying to find an open receiver
Orakpo looks really good this year and will be a first round draft pick
When you throw the ball as much as Kansas, Tech, and Mizzou do, you should put up numbers. Bend but don't break attitude on defense, but maybe Muschamp will bring a lot of pressure. We shall see.
Hook Em

[theTrutHurts]

Will have a much better grasp of where Texas stands and their chances the rest of the season after this Saturday. Up until this point only Alabama and LSU have proven anything on the field that could translate into the rest of the season. Paying teams to take their beatings hardly constitutes as proof of how well a season will go. Texas could go undefeated or they could lose three of their next four games and honestly the same could go for Oklahoma. Just too early to tell how well either of these teams are truly put together.

No sir, OU is for real
The only player that has hurt them is the Cinci WR, he played a good game
Otherwise they have shut every opponent down. The most games they could possibly lose this year is probably....2, but who knows what Ok. St. will bring to that match up
Texas on the other hand will be defined by the games against OU and Missouri in the upcoming weeks....

[theTrutHurts]

You can't compare this year's DBs to last year's DBs....different coach, different scheme......enough said there
K State in 06 had some good trick plays, taking advantage of the safeties' aggressiveness....good play calls
If Colt doesn't get hurt, Texas doesn't lose that game.....but oh well

The A&M game.....really bad tackling on the one long pass, then they had a chance to hold them at the end of the game and couldn't tackle Goodson
Not going to happen this year.....

[jtk1519]

texas facing a bit of a harder schedule here...

Let it never be said that the obvious escapes you.