Ginn4Heisman20
I'm a universal constant
oh boy, they don't have a prayer against us...and i dont think they know about it yet...
By Pete Fiutak
Thanks to the scintillating Rose Bowl win over Michigan, there's more positive energy than ever flowing around Austin in a Mack Brown off-season. Talk of the dreaded O team up north has quieted down with all the focus on how good Vince Young might be and the showdown with Ohio State in the second week of the season. However, there's as much pressure than ever with one of the best teams Brown has had looking to get back to Pasadena and play for the national championship.
Over the last four years, Texas is 43-4 against the rest of the world and 0-4 against Oklahoma. Yes, it has to be brought up because this time, Texas has the better team and should end up winning the Big XII title. Yes, this time Texas really, truly should beat the Sooners and win the conference championship. Really. Yes, really. O.K., so you're not convinced and it'll still be hard to pull the trigger and pick the Horns once the big game actually arrives.
For starters, the lines are even better than the dominant ones the team enjoyed last year with (if everything breaks the right way) as many as four NFL first rounders in offensive tackles Justin Blalock and Jonathan Scott along with Rodrique Wright and Larry Dibbles on the defensive side. The ends and guards are hardly chopped liver as they'll all receive All-Big XII honors in one way or another. With the lines set, everything else will fall into place. The passing attack will be better with Limas Sweed and Nate Jones due to break out and tight end David Thomas among the most dangerous in America. The running game will overcome the loss of Cedric Benson with Selvin Young and Ramonce Taylor filling the void. And then there's VY to pull it all together.
If Vince Young takes the next step up in the progression and builds on his Rose Bowl performance, he'll be the one to carry this loaded team to places Major Applewhite, Chris Simms and Chance Mock couldn't. Can Texas thrive in the role of favorite? It remains to be seen.
The Schedule: This might be one of the nation's five best teams, but a 2-3 start isn't out of the realm of possibility with road dates at Ohio State and Missouri (along with home games against UL Lafayette and Rice) before the Red River Shootout. With Oklahoma State looking a bit down, everything eases up after Oklahoma up until the showdown at Texas A&M.
Instant Impact Players
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</td> </tr> </tbody></table>
8 Jordan Shipley RFr. 6-0 184
TE(Y) 16 David Thomas Sr. 6-3 245
87 Neale Tweedie Jr. 6-5 267
RT 63 Justin Blalock Jr. 6-4 329
78 William Winston Sr. 6-7 350
RG 72 Will Allen Sr. 6-6 315
77 Kyle Thornton So. 6-4 320
C 62 Lyle Sendlein Jr. 6-5 305
67 Dallas Griffin RFr. 6-4 280 OR
66 Brett Valdez Jr. 6-4 305
LG 64 Kasey Studdard Jr. 6-3 295 OR
51 Mike Garcia Sr. 6-3 315
LT 73 Jonathan Scott Sr. 6-7 310
79 Tony Hills So. 6-6 295
DEFENSE Returning Starters: 9
RDE 39 Brian Robison Jr. 6-3 267
99 Kaelen Jakes Sr. 6-3 270
DT 90 Rodrique Wright Sr. 6-5 305
76 Thomas Marshall So. 6-6 297 OR
91 Tully Janszen So. 6-3 280
NT 97 Frank Okam So. 6-5 315
95 Derek Lokey So. 6-2 275 OR
92 Larry Dibbles Sr. 6-2 285
LDE 80 Tim Crowder Jr. 6-4 255
98 Brian Orakpo Fr.-RS 6-4 238 OR
81 Mike Williams Jr. 6-3 240
SLB 21 Eric Foreman So. 6-4 230 OR
49 Eric Hall Sr. 6-2 245
45 Nic Redwine RFr. 6-3 225
MLB 2 Aaron Harris Sr. 6-0 235
44 Rashad Bobino RFr. 5-11 235 OR
-33 Scott Derry So. 6-3 230
WLB 40 Robert Killebrew So. 6-2 225
30 Braden Johnson Sr. 6-1 205 OR
43 Jeremy Campbell Fr.-RS 6-2 220
RCB 8 Cedric Griffin Sr. 6-2 193 OR
7 Michael Huff Sr. 6-1 205
28 Brandon Foster So. 5-9 180
FS 27 Michael Griffin Jr. 6-0 200
26 Marcus Griffin So. 6-0 190 OR
18 Matt Melton Jr. 6-0 210
SS 7 Michael Huff Sr. 6-1 205
4 Drew Kelson So. 6-2 210 OR
9 Bobby Tatum So. 6-0 190
LCB 31 Aaron Ross Jr. 6-1 189 OR
5 Tarell Brown Jr. 6-0 185
29 Ryan Palmer Fr.-RS 5-10 182
Specialists
PK 15 David Pino Sr. 5-8 180
35 Richmond McGee Sr. 6-4 203
P 35 Richmond McGee Sr. 6-4 203
97 Greg Johnson Jr. 6-1 195
By Pete Fiutak
Thanks to the scintillating Rose Bowl win over Michigan, there's more positive energy than ever flowing around Austin in a Mack Brown off-season. Talk of the dreaded O team up north has quieted down with all the focus on how good Vince Young might be and the showdown with Ohio State in the second week of the season. However, there's as much pressure than ever with one of the best teams Brown has had looking to get back to Pasadena and play for the national championship.
Over the last four years, Texas is 43-4 against the rest of the world and 0-4 against Oklahoma. Yes, it has to be brought up because this time, Texas has the better team and should end up winning the Big XII title. Yes, this time Texas really, truly should beat the Sooners and win the conference championship. Really. Yes, really. O.K., so you're not convinced and it'll still be hard to pull the trigger and pick the Horns once the big game actually arrives.
For starters, the lines are even better than the dominant ones the team enjoyed last year with (if everything breaks the right way) as many as four NFL first rounders in offensive tackles Justin Blalock and Jonathan Scott along with Rodrique Wright and Larry Dibbles on the defensive side. The ends and guards are hardly chopped liver as they'll all receive All-Big XII honors in one way or another. With the lines set, everything else will fall into place. The passing attack will be better with Limas Sweed and Nate Jones due to break out and tight end David Thomas among the most dangerous in America. The running game will overcome the loss of Cedric Benson with Selvin Young and Ramonce Taylor filling the void. And then there's VY to pull it all together.
If Vince Young takes the next step up in the progression and builds on his Rose Bowl performance, he'll be the one to carry this loaded team to places Major Applewhite, Chris Simms and Chance Mock couldn't. Can Texas thrive in the role of favorite? It remains to be seen.
The Schedule: This might be one of the nation's five best teams, but a 2-3 start isn't out of the realm of possibility with road dates at Ohio State and Missouri (along with home games against UL Lafayette and Rice) before the Red River Shootout. With Oklahoma State looking a bit down, everything eases up after Oklahoma up until the showdown at Texas A&M.
Best Offensive Player: Senior QB Vince Young. If he can come out of Columbus with a win and can beat Oklahoma, the Heisman will be his for the taking no matter what Matt Leinart does.
Best Defensive Player: Senior DT Rodrique Wright. Defensive back Michael Huff is the star of the secondary, Aaron Harris will be a first-team All-Big XII linebacker, and Larry Dibbles will shine on the nose, but Wright is the focal point of the defense. Hampered by an ankle problem last year, he should regain his sophomore form now that he's healthy.
Key player to a successful season: Junior QB Vince Young. While there are questions at running back and receiver, everything is in place to be one of the nation's best teams and be in the hunt for the national title. This is Young's team and for right or wrong, the success or failure of the season will fall on him.
The season will be a success if ... Texas wins the Big XII title. Longhorn fans want to go back to the Rose Bowl, but a conference championship would make this a great year no matter what else happens.
Key game: Sept. 10 at Ohio State. Yes, everyone knows Texas would trade a loss to Ohio State for a win over Oklahoma, but a victory in Columbus would get the national title talk rolling and give the team a booster shot of confidence, and a mega-attitude, before tough games against Missouri and OU.
2004 Fun Stats:
- Third quarter scoring: Texas 112 - Opponents 20- Penalties: Texas 92 for 711 yards - Opponents 76 for 535- Third down conversion percentage: Texas 46.2% - Opponents 28%Offense Breakdown and Analysis | Defense Breakdown and Analysis | Depth Chart
<hr> 2004 Fun Stats:
- Third quarter scoring: Texas 112 - Opponents 20- Penalties: Texas 92 for 711 yards - Opponents 76 for 535- Third down conversion percentage: Texas 46.2% - Opponents 28%Offense Breakdown and Analysis | Defense Breakdown and Analysis | Depth Chart
2005 Recruiting Class
Star of the Class
Roy Miller DL 6-3 300 Killeen (Shoemaker) TX
Two-time All-State and three-time All-District performer at defensive tackle … also played some offensive tackle … named a captain in the 2005 U.S. Army All-America Bowl and recorded two sacks and three tackles … tabbed MVP of practice and finished second in MVP voting of that game … totaled 264 tackles and 24 sacks for his career … earned first-team All-State honors as a senior … named All-District and All-Area Defensive MVP … recorded 111 tackles, 25 solo tackles, 10 sacks, 19 hurries, 17 TFLs, six PBDs and two fumble recoveries, including a 43-yard TD return that season … recorded 17 tackles versus Temple as a senior … unanimous first-team All-District and All-Area that year as well … earned honorable mention All-State honors as a junior … unanimous first-team All-District choice as a sophomore … four-year letterman in powerlifting and a two-year letterman in track and field … earned eighth place in state powerlifting championships as a junior … competed in the shot put and discus in track and field … a prep honor roll student who was a three-time Academic All-District selection … named to the National Honor Roll as a junior
Star of the Class
Roy Miller DL 6-3 300 Killeen (Shoemaker) TX
Two-time All-State and three-time All-District performer at defensive tackle … also played some offensive tackle … named a captain in the 2005 U.S. Army All-America Bowl and recorded two sacks and three tackles … tabbed MVP of practice and finished second in MVP voting of that game … totaled 264 tackles and 24 sacks for his career … earned first-team All-State honors as a senior … named All-District and All-Area Defensive MVP … recorded 111 tackles, 25 solo tackles, 10 sacks, 19 hurries, 17 TFLs, six PBDs and two fumble recoveries, including a 43-yard TD return that season … recorded 17 tackles versus Temple as a senior … unanimous first-team All-District and All-Area that year as well … earned honorable mention All-State honors as a junior … unanimous first-team All-District choice as a sophomore … four-year letterman in powerlifting and a two-year letterman in track and field … earned eighth place in state powerlifting championships as a junior … competed in the shot put and discus in track and field … a prep honor roll student who was a three-time Academic All-District selection … named to the National Honor Roll as a junior
Instant Impact Players
Jamaal Charles RB 6-1 185 Port Arthur (Memorial) TX
A two-time first-team 5A All-State back who rushed for 4,107 yards and 50 TDs the last two years … a Parade High School All-America selection … played in the 2005 U.S. Army All-American Bowl … broke a Port Arthur city career rushing record held by Joe Washington that stood for over 30 years … tabbed first-team 5A All-State by The Associated Press as a senior … named offensive MVP by the Houston Chronicle … named District 22-5A Player of the Year as a junior and senior ... rushed for 2,056 yards on 260 carries and recorded 25 TDs as a senior … in his first game back from shoulder surgery, posted 371 yards on 49 carries against Midland Lee in 2004 … had 400 yards on 31 carries and six TDs versus Spring Westfield and recorded 258 yards and four TDs in one half versus Baytown Sterling that year …earned first-team All-State honors from the Texas Sports Writers Association and second-team All-State honors from the Associated press as a junior … received the Willie Ray Smith award for the Best High School Offensive Player in Southeast Texas in 2003 … rushed for 2,051 yards and 25 TDs as a junior … helped his team to the 5A Division II quarterfinals his junior year … also ran track … was a member of national record-setting 4 x 200m relay team as a sophomore … received a bronze medal in the world junior Olympics in the 400m hurdles … a prep honor roll student
Quan Cosby WR/DB 5-11 190 Mart (Mart) TX
Former two-time All-State football player who signed with Texas originally in 2001, but elected to play minor league baseball … a second-team All-USA selection by USA Today at quarterback in 2000 … a two-time first-team 2A All-State selection at quarterback and defensive back … led his team to the 2A-Div. II State Championship game as a junior and senior, winning as a junior … recorded 6,177 yards of total offense and produced 85 TDs (55 rush/30 pass) in his final two prep seasons … tabbed the 2A Texas Offensive Player of the Year and first-team All-State after registering 3,329 yards of total offense and 42 TDs as a senior … rushed for 1,924 yards and 29 TDs and completed 91 of 173 passes for 1,405 yards and 13 TDs … also was tabbed first-team 2A All-State as a defensive back and a kick returner … had 161 tackles and five interceptions (one returned for a TD) … averaged 29.6 yards on eight kickoff returns and 26.2 yards on 19 punt returns … returned one kickoff and five punts for TDs … tallied 2,848 yards of total offense and led his team to a 15-0 record and the 2A-Div. II State Championship as a junior … rushed for 1,532 and 26 TDs and threw for 1,316 yards and 17 TDs … returned nine kicks for TDs (seven punts, two kickoffs) … posted seven interceptions on defense … finished prep career with 480 tackles and 21 career INTs … hit .479 with three home runs and 33 RBI as a senior in baseball … stole 81-of-82 bases as a junior and senior … 2001 2A state champion in both the 100m (10.46) and 200m (21.31) in track
Rest of the Class
<!-- MSTableType="nolayout" --> <table id="table24" align="left" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="438"> <tbody><tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140"> A two-time first-team 5A All-State back who rushed for 4,107 yards and 50 TDs the last two years … a Parade High School All-America selection … played in the 2005 U.S. Army All-American Bowl … broke a Port Arthur city career rushing record held by Joe Washington that stood for over 30 years … tabbed first-team 5A All-State by The Associated Press as a senior … named offensive MVP by the Houston Chronicle … named District 22-5A Player of the Year as a junior and senior ... rushed for 2,056 yards on 260 carries and recorded 25 TDs as a senior … in his first game back from shoulder surgery, posted 371 yards on 49 carries against Midland Lee in 2004 … had 400 yards on 31 carries and six TDs versus Spring Westfield and recorded 258 yards and four TDs in one half versus Baytown Sterling that year …earned first-team All-State honors from the Texas Sports Writers Association and second-team All-State honors from the Associated press as a junior … received the Willie Ray Smith award for the Best High School Offensive Player in Southeast Texas in 2003 … rushed for 2,051 yards and 25 TDs as a junior … helped his team to the 5A Division II quarterfinals his junior year … also ran track … was a member of national record-setting 4 x 200m relay team as a sophomore … received a bronze medal in the world junior Olympics in the 400m hurdles … a prep honor roll student
Quan Cosby WR/DB 5-11 190 Mart (Mart) TX
Former two-time All-State football player who signed with Texas originally in 2001, but elected to play minor league baseball … a second-team All-USA selection by USA Today at quarterback in 2000 … a two-time first-team 2A All-State selection at quarterback and defensive back … led his team to the 2A-Div. II State Championship game as a junior and senior, winning as a junior … recorded 6,177 yards of total offense and produced 85 TDs (55 rush/30 pass) in his final two prep seasons … tabbed the 2A Texas Offensive Player of the Year and first-team All-State after registering 3,329 yards of total offense and 42 TDs as a senior … rushed for 1,924 yards and 29 TDs and completed 91 of 173 passes for 1,405 yards and 13 TDs … also was tabbed first-team 2A All-State as a defensive back and a kick returner … had 161 tackles and five interceptions (one returned for a TD) … averaged 29.6 yards on eight kickoff returns and 26.2 yards on 19 punt returns … returned one kickoff and five punts for TDs … tallied 2,848 yards of total offense and led his team to a 15-0 record and the 2A-Div. II State Championship as a junior … rushed for 1,532 and 26 TDs and threw for 1,316 yards and 17 TDs … returned nine kicks for TDs (seven punts, two kickoffs) … posted seven interceptions on defense … finished prep career with 480 tackles and 21 career INTs … hit .479 with three home runs and 33 RBI as a senior in baseball … stole 81-of-82 bases as a junior and senior … 2001 2A state champion in both the 100m (10.46) and 200m (21.31) in track
Rest of the Class
Chris Brown
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LB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-4
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
205
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Texarkana (Texarkana)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Jermichael Finley
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TE
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-4
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
215
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Diboli
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Chris Hall
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
OL
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-4
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
285
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Irving (Irving)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Michael Houston
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
RB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-0
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
230
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Denver (Montbello)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
Colo.
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Aaron Lewis
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
DL
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-4
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
255
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Albuquerque (La Cueva)
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N.M.
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Colt McCoy
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
QB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-3
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
190
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Tuscola (Jim Ned)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Henry Melton
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
DL
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-3
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
270
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Grapevine (Grapevine)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Rodrick Muckelroy
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
LB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-2
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
255
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Hallsville (Hallsville)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Ishie Oduegwu
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
DB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
5-10
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
185
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Denton (Ryan)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Charlie Tanner
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
OL
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
6-4
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
285
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
Austin (Anderson)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="140">
Jerrell Wilkerson
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RB
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
5-8
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
180
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="147">
San Antonio (Clark)
</td> <td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="30">
TX
</td></tr></tbody> </table> Basically ... All of the focus is one Vince Young's passing abilities as everyone is looking for him to take another step in his development to become more than just a superstar runner. While improving the air attack is nice, don't look for too much of a change from a rushing offense that averaged close to 300 yards per game and finished number two in the nation. There isn't a Cedric Benson, but Selvin Young, Ramonce Taylor and Chris Ogbonnaya will be more than fine running behind one of the nation's best offensive lines. Limas Sweed and Nate Jones are talented young receivers who have to come through in a big way to take the heat off Young and the ground game. <table align="right" border="0" cellspacing="6" width="30%"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="100%">
</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>
Star of the offense: Junior QB Vince Young
Player that has to step up and become a star: Sophomore WR Limas Sweed
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore RB Ramonce Taylor
Best pro prospect: Junior OT Justin Blalock
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Young, 2) Blalock, 3) OT Jonathan Scott
Strength of the offense: Offensive line, quarterback
Weakness of the offense: Experienced receiver production
Player that has to step up and become a star: Sophomore WR Limas Sweed
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore RB Ramonce Taylor
Best pro prospect: Junior OT Justin Blalock
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Young, 2) Blalock, 3) OT Jonathan Scott
Strength of the offense: Offensive line, quarterback
Weakness of the offense: Experienced receiver production
Quarterbacks
Vince Young is unquestionably one of college football's best players, but the weight of Longhorn Nation will be on his shoulders without a Cedric Benson to hand off to. He has been around long enough to be the leader and a better passer looking to build on the strong end to 2004. The backup situation is iffy with Matt Nordgren going from career emergency quarterback to the number two job. Considering how much Young will run, Nordgren will have to stay sharp. The soap opera with top recruit Ryan Perrilloux, who originally committed to Texas before leaving for LSU, left the bag empty without any talented young quarterbacks waiting in the wings, but help is on the way with a great looking 2006 recruiting class. The rating would be higher if the backups were better. Player to keep an eye on: Matt Nordgren, Sr. ... Quarterback Rating: 9 Projected Starter
- Vince Young, Jr. - He's not that bad a passer. Even after a transcendent Rose Bowl performance all anyone could discuss was Young's passing ability. "If he could just be an above-average passer he'd be a number one draft pick." At 6-5 and 230 pounds, he's way big, way fast, and one of the best open field runners in college football rushing for 1,079 yards and 14 touchdowns. He completed almost 60% of his passes last season, but he failed to throw more than one touchdown pass in a game after the win over Baylor in early October and did next to nothing in the showdown against Oklahoma. However, he got better with a sharper command of the passing game becoming more and more consistent as the year went on. Expect even bigger things now that he has some experienced targets to work with.
Top Backups
- Matt Nordgren, Sr. - A good backup to have in reserve, the 6-5 Nordgren has been around long enough to know the offense and be a decent fill-in if disaster strikes. He has had to sit behind Major Applewhite, Chris Simms, Chance Mock and Vince Young fighting for practice time along the way. He's smart and has a big arm. He can run a little bit too.
- Matthew McCoy, Jr. - The 6-3 walk-on will only see time in the ugliest of blowouts. He'll get some work in on the scout team as a decent passer who'll occupy the emergency number three spot.
Vince Young is unquestionably one of college football's best players, but the weight of Longhorn Nation will be on his shoulders without a Cedric Benson to hand off to. He has been around long enough to be the leader and a better passer looking to build on the strong end to 2004. The backup situation is iffy with Matt Nordgren going from career emergency quarterback to the number two job. Considering how much Young will run, Nordgren will have to stay sharp. The soap opera with top recruit Ryan Perrilloux, who originally committed to Texas before leaving for LSU, left the bag empty without any talented young quarterbacks waiting in the wings, but help is on the way with a great looking 2006 recruiting class. The rating would be higher if the backups were better. Player to keep an eye on: Matt Nordgren, Sr. ... Quarterback Rating: 9 Projected Starter
- Vince Young, Jr. - He's not that bad a passer. Even after a transcendent Rose Bowl performance all anyone could discuss was Young's passing ability. "If he could just be an above-average passer he'd be a number one draft pick." At 6-5 and 230 pounds, he's way big, way fast, and one of the best open field runners in college football rushing for 1,079 yards and 14 touchdowns. He completed almost 60% of his passes last season, but he failed to throw more than one touchdown pass in a game after the win over Baylor in early October and did next to nothing in the showdown against Oklahoma. However, he got better with a sharper command of the passing game becoming more and more consistent as the year went on. Expect even bigger things now that he has some experienced targets to work with.
Top Backups
- Matt Nordgren, Sr. - A good backup to have in reserve, the 6-5 Nordgren has been around long enough to know the offense and be a decent fill-in if disaster strikes. He has had to sit behind Major Applewhite, Chris Simms, Chance Mock and Vince Young fighting for practice time along the way. He's smart and has a big arm. He can run a little bit too.
- Matthew McCoy, Jr. - The 6-3 walk-on will only see time in the ugliest of blowouts. He'll get some work in on the scout team as a decent passer who'll occupy the emergency number three spot.
Running Backs
Cedric Benson was never appreciated as much as he should've been on a national scale finishing with a Heisman-worthy 1,834-yard, 19 touchdown season. There's talent in the backfield, but there are also plenty of question marks. Will Selvin Young's ankle and academics be in order? Can Ramonce Taylor be a consistent runner? Can Ahmard Hall and Marcus Myers come close to replacing Will Matthews at fullback? The offense needs production out of this relatively untested crew or Vince Young will be kept under wraps all year long.
Player to keep an eye on: Ramonce Taylor, Soph. ... Running back rating: 7.5
Projected Starters
- Selvin Young, Jr. - Young broke his ankle early last season taking away a major home-run hitting threat from the backfield. He's a big back with tremendous speed used as a top kick returner averaging 17.5 yards on punts and 23.8 yards on kickoffs. He averaged 8.5 yards per carry last season on his 12 carries and will be a dangerous, experienced weapon now that he'll get more work. He's expected to be back after needing to work on his schoolwork in the off-season.
- Fullback Ahmard Hall, Jr. - The Marine was mostly a special teamer after walking on a few years ago where he has been a tough-as-nails tackler. Now he'll get the first look at fullback trying to replace Will Matthews who finished fourth on the team with 161 rushing yards and paved the way for Cedric Benson's big season.
Top Backups
- Ramonce Taylor, Soph. - A speedy back able to do a little of everything well, the 5-11, 195-pound Taylor will split the running duties with Selvin Young after getting most of the work this spring. He's a dangerous return man and has excellent hands as a receiver out of the backfield. If needed, he can play wide receiver. - Chris Ogbonnaya, RFr. - A powerful back at 6-1 and 215 pounds, Ogbonnaya is looking to work his way in the rotation after working on the scout team last year. He has the speed and hands to be a decent receiver able to play receiver if absolutely necessary.
- Fullback Marcus Myers, Jr. - At 250 pounds, Myers is a bigger fullback option than Ahmard Hall, but he needs to learn on the fly after starting his career as a linebacker and special teamer.
Cedric Benson was never appreciated as much as he should've been on a national scale finishing with a Heisman-worthy 1,834-yard, 19 touchdown season. There's talent in the backfield, but there are also plenty of question marks. Will Selvin Young's ankle and academics be in order? Can Ramonce Taylor be a consistent runner? Can Ahmard Hall and Marcus Myers come close to replacing Will Matthews at fullback? The offense needs production out of this relatively untested crew or Vince Young will be kept under wraps all year long.
Player to keep an eye on: Ramonce Taylor, Soph. ... Running back rating: 7.5
Projected Starters
- Selvin Young, Jr. - Young broke his ankle early last season taking away a major home-run hitting threat from the backfield. He's a big back with tremendous speed used as a top kick returner averaging 17.5 yards on punts and 23.8 yards on kickoffs. He averaged 8.5 yards per carry last season on his 12 carries and will be a dangerous, experienced weapon now that he'll get more work. He's expected to be back after needing to work on his schoolwork in the off-season.
- Fullback Ahmard Hall, Jr. - The Marine was mostly a special teamer after walking on a few years ago where he has been a tough-as-nails tackler. Now he'll get the first look at fullback trying to replace Will Matthews who finished fourth on the team with 161 rushing yards and paved the way for Cedric Benson's big season.
Top Backups
- Ramonce Taylor, Soph. - A speedy back able to do a little of everything well, the 5-11, 195-pound Taylor will split the running duties with Selvin Young after getting most of the work this spring. He's a dangerous return man and has excellent hands as a receiver out of the backfield. If needed, he can play wide receiver. - Chris Ogbonnaya, RFr. - A powerful back at 6-1 and 215 pounds, Ogbonnaya is looking to work his way in the rotation after working on the scout team last year. He has the speed and hands to be a decent receiver able to play receiver if absolutely necessary.
- Fullback Marcus Myers, Jr. - At 250 pounds, Myers is a bigger fullback option than Ahmard Hall, but he needs to learn on the fly after starting his career as a linebacker and special teamer.
Receivers
There's a lot to get excited about, but little proven production with no touchdown catches among the returning wide receivers. The tight ends get most of the glory with Vince Young throwing and Texas has a great one in David Thomas. Limas Sweed is going to be a star deep threat at the X with size, speed, and tremendous athleticism. Nate Jones is a good looking young player and Myron Hardy should turn into a good producer. Jordan Shipley has to prove he's back from a knee injury and Brian Carter has to finally breakout.
Player to keep an eye on: Myron Hardy, Soph. ... Receiver rating: 7
Projected Starters
- Limas Sweed, Soph. - The 6-5, 215-pound sophomore wasn't used nearly as much as he should've only making 23 catches for 263 yards with no touchdowns. Expect that to change as he has too much speed and talent to not become and elite level player. He was a high school track star as a hurdler and should grow into the role as Vince Young's number one target.
- Nate Jones, Soph. - One of the few experienced receivers on the roster, the 6-2 Jones caught seven passes for 73 yards as a true freshman. Now he'll combine with Jordan Shipley at the Z position as a good medium range route runner with good hands.
- Tight end David Thomas, Sr. - Thomas earned first-team All-Big XII honors catching 25 passes for 430 yards and five touchdowns averaging a whopping 17.2 yards per catch. He's a great blocker who can also line up at fullback and on special teams, but his real talents are as a receiver where he can line up wide if need be. He has 48 career catches for 758 yards and ten touchdowns.
Top Backups
- Jordan Shipley, RFr. - The all-time leading receiver in Texas high school history with 264 catches for 5,424 yards is trying to get back from a knee injury that cost him all of last year. Now he'll use his quickness and good route running ability at the Z along with Nate Jones.
- Myron Hardy, Soph. - A physical, good sized former running back, the 6-2, 210-pound Hardy can also move ready to become a factor at the X behind Limas Sweed.
- Brian Carter, Sr. - The one-time star recruit has never blossomed with only three career catches for 47 yards. He has the speed and athletic ability, but he hasn't been able to stay healthy. Now he'll push Myron Hardy for time behind Limas Sweed at the X.
- Quan Cosby, Fr. - Cosby was one of the jewels of the 2001 recruiting class, but he chose to play minor league baseball as an outfielder for the Anaheim Angels. He scored 42 touchdowns as a high school senior. Now he brings his maturity and blinding speed to the Longhorn receiving corps.
- Tight end Neale Tweedie, Jr. - Over twenty pounds bigger than starter David Thomas, Tweedie will be used mostly as a physical blocking tight end after spending most of his career as a defensive end. He made ten tackles last season and showed signs of becoming a decent pass rusher.
There's a lot to get excited about, but little proven production with no touchdown catches among the returning wide receivers. The tight ends get most of the glory with Vince Young throwing and Texas has a great one in David Thomas. Limas Sweed is going to be a star deep threat at the X with size, speed, and tremendous athleticism. Nate Jones is a good looking young player and Myron Hardy should turn into a good producer. Jordan Shipley has to prove he's back from a knee injury and Brian Carter has to finally breakout.
Player to keep an eye on: Myron Hardy, Soph. ... Receiver rating: 7
Projected Starters
- Limas Sweed, Soph. - The 6-5, 215-pound sophomore wasn't used nearly as much as he should've only making 23 catches for 263 yards with no touchdowns. Expect that to change as he has too much speed and talent to not become and elite level player. He was a high school track star as a hurdler and should grow into the role as Vince Young's number one target.
- Nate Jones, Soph. - One of the few experienced receivers on the roster, the 6-2 Jones caught seven passes for 73 yards as a true freshman. Now he'll combine with Jordan Shipley at the Z position as a good medium range route runner with good hands.
- Tight end David Thomas, Sr. - Thomas earned first-team All-Big XII honors catching 25 passes for 430 yards and five touchdowns averaging a whopping 17.2 yards per catch. He's a great blocker who can also line up at fullback and on special teams, but his real talents are as a receiver where he can line up wide if need be. He has 48 career catches for 758 yards and ten touchdowns.
Top Backups
- Jordan Shipley, RFr. - The all-time leading receiver in Texas high school history with 264 catches for 5,424 yards is trying to get back from a knee injury that cost him all of last year. Now he'll use his quickness and good route running ability at the Z along with Nate Jones.
- Myron Hardy, Soph. - A physical, good sized former running back, the 6-2, 210-pound Hardy can also move ready to become a factor at the X behind Limas Sweed.
- Brian Carter, Sr. - The one-time star recruit has never blossomed with only three career catches for 47 yards. He has the speed and athletic ability, but he hasn't been able to stay healthy. Now he'll push Myron Hardy for time behind Limas Sweed at the X.
- Quan Cosby, Fr. - Cosby was one of the jewels of the 2001 recruiting class, but he chose to play minor league baseball as an outfielder for the Anaheim Angels. He scored 42 touchdowns as a high school senior. Now he brings his maturity and blinding speed to the Longhorn receiving corps.
- Tight end Neale Tweedie, Jr. - Over twenty pounds bigger than starter David Thomas, Tweedie will be used mostly as a physical blocking tight end after spending most of his career as a defensive end. He made ten tackles last season and showed signs of becoming a decent pass rusher.
Offensive Line
Where's the weakness? The line has four sure-thing All-Big XII candidates (Justin Blalock, Will Allen, Kasey Studdard and Jonathan Scott), two certain NFL millionaires (Blalock and Scott) and enough size and experience among the reserves to fill in wherever needed. The only open spot is at center where Lyle Sendlein has to replace the 37 straight starts of Jason Glynn, but he'll be more than fine. If this isn't the best line in the country, it's a close number two.
Player to keep an eye on: Tony Hills, Soph. ... Offensive line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Tackle Justin Blalock, Jr. - A multi-millionaire next year at this time if he chooses to leave early, the 6-4, 329-pound junior has started every game in his career at right tackle as a consistently dominating run blocker. He earned first-team All-Big XII honors and will be on everyone's All-America short list. If needed, he can play guard.
- Guard Will Allen, Sr. - Allen has been a steady producer on the line for the last three seasons seeing time at both center and guard. The only problem has been with injuries sidelined by a thumb problem in 2003 and getting knocked out for the last four games of last year before returning for the Rose Bowl. The 6-6, 315-pound senior is a strong, smart run blocker.
- Center Lyle Sendlein, Jr. - The only question mark on the line trying to replace long time starter Jason Glynn, the 6-5, 305 pound Sendlein has to prove he's ready to handle the full-time job. He has more than enough experience as both a guard and center to be counted on right away.
- Guard Kasey Studdard, Jr. - Studdard started every game last year earning All-Big XII honors. He's a powerful lineman and one of the team's toughest blockers despite being a relatively light (for this line) 295 pounds. He's quick and very aggressive.
- Tackle Jonathan Scott, Sr. - The massive 6-7, 310-pound senior has great feet and long arms to dominate most ends in passing situations. While not the prospect Justin Blalock is, Scott will be an early NFL draft pick and could work his way high up in the draft with a consistent senior year.
Where's the weakness? The line has four sure-thing All-Big XII candidates (Justin Blalock, Will Allen, Kasey Studdard and Jonathan Scott), two certain NFL millionaires (Blalock and Scott) and enough size and experience among the reserves to fill in wherever needed. The only open spot is at center where Lyle Sendlein has to replace the 37 straight starts of Jason Glynn, but he'll be more than fine. If this isn't the best line in the country, it's a close number two.
Player to keep an eye on: Tony Hills, Soph. ... Offensive line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Tackle Justin Blalock, Jr. - A multi-millionaire next year at this time if he chooses to leave early, the 6-4, 329-pound junior has started every game in his career at right tackle as a consistently dominating run blocker. He earned first-team All-Big XII honors and will be on everyone's All-America short list. If needed, he can play guard.
- Guard Will Allen, Sr. - Allen has been a steady producer on the line for the last three seasons seeing time at both center and guard. The only problem has been with injuries sidelined by a thumb problem in 2003 and getting knocked out for the last four games of last year before returning for the Rose Bowl. The 6-6, 315-pound senior is a strong, smart run blocker.
- Center Lyle Sendlein, Jr. - The only question mark on the line trying to replace long time starter Jason Glynn, the 6-5, 305 pound Sendlein has to prove he's ready to handle the full-time job. He has more than enough experience as both a guard and center to be counted on right away.
- Guard Kasey Studdard, Jr. - Studdard started every game last year earning All-Big XII honors. He's a powerful lineman and one of the team's toughest blockers despite being a relatively light (for this line) 295 pounds. He's quick and very aggressive.
- Tackle Jonathan Scott, Sr. - The massive 6-7, 310-pound senior has great feet and long arms to dominate most ends in passing situations. While not the prospect Justin Blalock is, Scott will be an early NFL draft pick and could work his way high up in the draft with a consistent senior year.
Top Backups
- G Mike Garcia, Sr. - Garcia can be a backup at either guard spot and will push for time as a bigger option than Kasey Studdard on the left side. He has a little bit of starting experienced filling in for Will Allen over the second half of last year.
- C Brett Valdez, Jr. - While he'll have to battle with Dallas Griffin for time, the 305-pound Valdez has enough experience to rotate with Lyle Sendlein in the middle and take over if needed. He can also play guard.
- T William Winston, Sr. - The massive 6-7, 350-pound senior has surprising athleticism for a player of his size. He'll play behind Justin Blalock at right tackle and will see time on special teams.
- T Tony Hills, Soph. - Hills had a solid season as a reserve moving over from tight end to tackle. Now he'll spend another year as the understudy to Jonathan Scott on the left side before taking over next year.
Basically ... Nine starters return, but the two losses are huge with Derrick Johnson off to the Kansas City Chiefs and coordinator Greg Robinson off to coach the Syracuse Orange. Gene Chizik comes over from Auburn and should do a great job combining with Duane Akina. Even with the loss of the nation's best defensive player, the defense will be better led by tackles Rodrique Wright and Larry Dibbles anchoring a phenomenal line that should shoot for 25 sacks. Outside linebacker is a bit of a question mark, but Aaron Harris is a good man in the middle to work around. The secondary is rock solid.- G Mike Garcia, Sr. - Garcia can be a backup at either guard spot and will push for time as a bigger option than Kasey Studdard on the left side. He has a little bit of starting experienced filling in for Will Allen over the second half of last year.
- C Brett Valdez, Jr. - While he'll have to battle with Dallas Griffin for time, the 305-pound Valdez has enough experience to rotate with Lyle Sendlein in the middle and take over if needed. He can also play guard.
- T William Winston, Sr. - The massive 6-7, 350-pound senior has surprising athleticism for a player of his size. He'll play behind Justin Blalock at right tackle and will see time on special teams.
- T Tony Hills, Soph. - Hills had a solid season as a reserve moving over from tight end to tackle. Now he'll spend another year as the understudy to Jonathan Scott on the left side before taking over next year.
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[font=Arial, Helvetica]Returning Leaders
[/font] [font=Arial, Helvetica] Tackles: Aaron Harris, 118
Sacks: Tim Crowder, 4.5
Interceptions: Tarell Brown, Cedric Griffin, Michael Huff, 2[/font]
<table id="table1" align="right" border="0" cellspacing="6" width="120"> <tbody><tr> <td width="100%"><!-- ---------- Banner Code -------------- --> <script language="JavaScript"> var bnum=new Number(Math.floor(99999999 * Math.random())+1); document.write('<SCR'+'IPT LANGUAGE="JavaScript" '); document.write('SRC="http://servedby.advertising.com/site=692019/size=120600/bnum='+bnum+'/optn=1"></SCR'+'IPT>'); </script><script language=\"\"\"JavaScript\"\"\" src="http://servedby.advertising.com/site=692019/size=120600/bnum=43341536/optn=1"></script> <!-- ---------- Advertising.com ---------- -->[/font] [font=Arial, Helvetica] Tackles: Aaron Harris, 118
Sacks: Tim Crowder, 4.5
Interceptions: Tarell Brown, Cedric Griffin, Michael Huff, 2[/font]
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>
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Star of the defense: Senior DT Rodrique Wright
Player that has to step up and become a star: Sophomore LB Robert Killebrew
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore LB Eric Foreman
Best pro prospect: Wright
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Wright, 2) DB Michael Huff, 3) NT Larry Dibbles
Strength of the defense: Defensive line
Weakness of the defense: Outside linebacker
Player that has to step up and become a star: Sophomore LB Robert Killebrew
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore LB Eric Foreman
Best pro prospect: Wright
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Wright, 2) DB Michael Huff, 3) NT Larry Dibbles
Strength of the defense: Defensive line
Weakness of the defense: Outside linebacker
Defensive Line
Assuming all is well with Larry Dibbles and his coursework, this will be an awesome line with four first team All-Big XII candidates and two likely first round draft picks in the middle. Brian Robison and Tim Crowder were great pass rushers as sophomores and should blow up as experienced juniors. Dibbles and Rodrique Wright form one of the nation's best tackle pairs with Frank Okam and Derek Lokey solid reserves on the nose. The icing on the cake will be if speed rusher Mike Williams regains his pre-knee injury form.
Player to keep an eye on: DT Frank Okam, Soph. ... Defensive Line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- DE Brian Robison, Jr. - 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 18 quarterback pressures ... The former linebacker grew into a terror of a pass rusher using his quickness to be a constant threat in the backfield. He has to work on being a closer and getting to the quarterback a half step quicker, but that will come with more experience.
- DT Rodrique Wright, Sr. - 36 tackles, 1 sack, 7 quarterback pressures ... Wright could be a top 15 pick in next year's NFL draft and likely would've gone in the first round had he decided to leave early this year. Hurt by a lingering ankle problem, the 305-pound senior had his least productive season after cranking out 65 tackles as a freshman and 80 stops and 30 quarterback pressures in 2003. He'll be on most preseason All-America lists now that he's back to 100%.
- NT Larry Dibbles, Sr. - 49 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 9 quarterback pressures, 6 broken up passes ... Down on the depth chart after missing spring ball to work on the academic side of things, Dibbles should be back in the mix by fall to take back his job on the nose. The 6-2, 285-pound senior could've gone off to the NFL, but he should up his stock if he has a repeat of last year producing like one of the nation's quickest nose tackles.
- DE Tim Crowder, Jr. - 47 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 22 quarterback pressures ... One of the team's rising superstars, Crowder earned some All-Big XII honors after a fantastic sophomore season. He started off his career with a bang making 82 tackles, 36 quarterback pressures and 5.5 sacks in his first two seasons and has the pass rusher's mentality to do even more.
Top Backups
- NT Frank Okam, Soph. - 22 tackles, 2 sacks, 9 quarterback pressures ... Okam got the first team reps with Larry Dibbles out this spring. At 315 pounds, he's a bigger body on the nose with a great combination of strength and quickness as an interior pass rusher. At the very least he'll be a great reserve in the rotation.
- NT Derek Lokey, Soph. - 10 tackles, 5 quarterback pressures ... Part of the rotation on the nose, the 275-pound Lokey will see time on the nose and at tackle. He's great at getting into the backfield and is decent against the run.
- DE Mike Williams, Jr. - Back after redshirting last year due to academic ineligibility, the 240-pound Williams will be a key backup on the left side behind Tim Crowder. He made 23 tackles, six sacks and 15 quarterback hurries as a sophomore and saw time on special teams.
- DE Kaelen Jakes, Sr. - 3 tackles ... At 270 pounds, Jakes is a versatile reserve able to play either end or tackle. He'll start out backing up Brian Robison on the right side.
Assuming all is well with Larry Dibbles and his coursework, this will be an awesome line with four first team All-Big XII candidates and two likely first round draft picks in the middle. Brian Robison and Tim Crowder were great pass rushers as sophomores and should blow up as experienced juniors. Dibbles and Rodrique Wright form one of the nation's best tackle pairs with Frank Okam and Derek Lokey solid reserves on the nose. The icing on the cake will be if speed rusher Mike Williams regains his pre-knee injury form.
Player to keep an eye on: DT Frank Okam, Soph. ... Defensive Line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- DE Brian Robison, Jr. - 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 18 quarterback pressures ... The former linebacker grew into a terror of a pass rusher using his quickness to be a constant threat in the backfield. He has to work on being a closer and getting to the quarterback a half step quicker, but that will come with more experience.
- DT Rodrique Wright, Sr. - 36 tackles, 1 sack, 7 quarterback pressures ... Wright could be a top 15 pick in next year's NFL draft and likely would've gone in the first round had he decided to leave early this year. Hurt by a lingering ankle problem, the 305-pound senior had his least productive season after cranking out 65 tackles as a freshman and 80 stops and 30 quarterback pressures in 2003. He'll be on most preseason All-America lists now that he's back to 100%.
- NT Larry Dibbles, Sr. - 49 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 9 quarterback pressures, 6 broken up passes ... Down on the depth chart after missing spring ball to work on the academic side of things, Dibbles should be back in the mix by fall to take back his job on the nose. The 6-2, 285-pound senior could've gone off to the NFL, but he should up his stock if he has a repeat of last year producing like one of the nation's quickest nose tackles.
- DE Tim Crowder, Jr. - 47 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 22 quarterback pressures ... One of the team's rising superstars, Crowder earned some All-Big XII honors after a fantastic sophomore season. He started off his career with a bang making 82 tackles, 36 quarterback pressures and 5.5 sacks in his first two seasons and has the pass rusher's mentality to do even more.
Top Backups
- NT Frank Okam, Soph. - 22 tackles, 2 sacks, 9 quarterback pressures ... Okam got the first team reps with Larry Dibbles out this spring. At 315 pounds, he's a bigger body on the nose with a great combination of strength and quickness as an interior pass rusher. At the very least he'll be a great reserve in the rotation.
- NT Derek Lokey, Soph. - 10 tackles, 5 quarterback pressures ... Part of the rotation on the nose, the 275-pound Lokey will see time on the nose and at tackle. He's great at getting into the backfield and is decent against the run.
- DE Mike Williams, Jr. - Back after redshirting last year due to academic ineligibility, the 240-pound Williams will be a key backup on the left side behind Tim Crowder. He made 23 tackles, six sacks and 15 quarterback hurries as a sophomore and saw time on special teams.
- DE Kaelen Jakes, Sr. - 3 tackles ... At 270 pounds, Jakes is a versatile reserve able to play either end or tackle. He'll start out backing up Brian Robison on the right side.
Linebackers
You don't lose a Derrick Johnson and get better, but the linebacking corps will be fine with everyone revolving around underrated star Aaron Harris in the middle. Eric Foreman and Eric Hall should eventually shine on the strongside while Robert Killebrew has the unenviable task of replacing Johnson on the weakside. Expect the shuffle to be a work in progress with Scott Derry and Jeremy Campbell pushing hard for time.
Player to keep an eye on: Eric Foreman, Soph. ... Linebacker rating: 7
Projected Starters
- Eric Foreman, Soph. - One of the team's most interesting prospects, Foreman is a former quarterback turned linebacker getting the starting spot on the strongside and serving last year as a scout team quarterback. He made 18 tackles as a freshman linebacker and has the athleticism and experience to shine splitting time with Eric Hall.
- Aaron Harris, Sr. - 118 tackles, 2 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 9 broken up passes ... Harris never received the credit he deserved with everyone focused on Derrick Johnson. The 235-pound man in the middle is a great all around linebacker able to stay put and stuff the run and fly into the backfield when needed. He had 14 quarterback pressures as a sophomore and still has the wheels to do more. He came through with the biggest game of his career in last year's loss to Oklahoma with 18 tackles.
- Robert Killebrew, Soph. - 15 tackles, 2 quarterback pressures ... All Killebrew has to do is replace the nation's best defensive player and Butkus Award winner Derrick Johnson. While not anywhere near the talent Johnson was, Killebrew is a good hitter with excellent speed and a little bit of experience.
Top Backups
- Eric Hall, Sr. - 41 tackles, 1 sack, 4 quarterback pressures ... Hall has done a little bit of everything over the course of his career seeing most of his time as a blocking fullback when he wasn't playing linebacker. He had a strong season as a defensive reserve on the strongside and has the experience to combine with Eric Foreman for the starting spot.
- Rashad Bobino, RFr. - Bobino will combine with Scott Derry as the understudies behind Aaron Harris in the middle. He spent last year as a scout teamer showing some of the athleticism that has the coaching staff expecting big things early.
You don't lose a Derrick Johnson and get better, but the linebacking corps will be fine with everyone revolving around underrated star Aaron Harris in the middle. Eric Foreman and Eric Hall should eventually shine on the strongside while Robert Killebrew has the unenviable task of replacing Johnson on the weakside. Expect the shuffle to be a work in progress with Scott Derry and Jeremy Campbell pushing hard for time.
Player to keep an eye on: Eric Foreman, Soph. ... Linebacker rating: 7
Projected Starters
- Eric Foreman, Soph. - One of the team's most interesting prospects, Foreman is a former quarterback turned linebacker getting the starting spot on the strongside and serving last year as a scout team quarterback. He made 18 tackles as a freshman linebacker and has the athleticism and experience to shine splitting time with Eric Hall.
- Aaron Harris, Sr. - 118 tackles, 2 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 9 broken up passes ... Harris never received the credit he deserved with everyone focused on Derrick Johnson. The 235-pound man in the middle is a great all around linebacker able to stay put and stuff the run and fly into the backfield when needed. He had 14 quarterback pressures as a sophomore and still has the wheels to do more. He came through with the biggest game of his career in last year's loss to Oklahoma with 18 tackles.
- Robert Killebrew, Soph. - 15 tackles, 2 quarterback pressures ... All Killebrew has to do is replace the nation's best defensive player and Butkus Award winner Derrick Johnson. While not anywhere near the talent Johnson was, Killebrew is a good hitter with excellent speed and a little bit of experience.
Top Backups
- Eric Hall, Sr. - 41 tackles, 1 sack, 4 quarterback pressures ... Hall has done a little bit of everything over the course of his career seeing most of his time as a blocking fullback when he wasn't playing linebacker. He had a strong season as a defensive reserve on the strongside and has the experience to combine with Eric Foreman for the starting spot.
- Rashad Bobino, RFr. - Bobino will combine with Scott Derry as the understudies behind Aaron Harris in the middle. He spent last year as a scout teamer showing some of the athleticism that has the coaching staff expecting big things early.
Defensive Backs
The Texas pass defense will get a bad rap by some since the last time anyone watched it play, Braylon Edwards was making plays at will. This is a good secondary with experience and plenty of size and speed led by the versatile Michael Huff. There isn't a killer lock-down corner, but Cedric Griffin, Aaron Ross and Tarell Brown can more than handle any college receiver who isn't the next Braylon Edwards. This will be a better group than anyone will give it credit for.
Player to keep an eye on: SS Drew Kelson, Soph. ... Secondary rating: 8.5
Projected Starters
- CB Cedric Griffin, Sr. - 68 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 6 broken up passes ... Griffin has been a steady starter over the last two years with safety size and good cover abilities. He has seen time as a strong safety along with corner making 189 career tackles with three interceptions and 17 broken up passes. He's not a true lock-down corner, but at 6-2 and 193 pounds he can hold his own with the bigger receivers.
- FS Michael Griffin, Jr. - 49 tackles, 1 interception, 3 broken up passes ... The former running back can play either free or strong safety and has been the team's best special teams tackler. He has 114 career tackles despite only starting in three games, but now he'll shine taking over Phillip Geiggar's old spot.
- SS Michael Huff, Sr. - 73 tackles, 2 interceptions, 14 broken up passes ... One of the Big XII's most talented all-around defensive backs, Huff can play either corner or safety going wherever needed most. He's a better safety than a corner with his size and range, but he has the track star speed to be fine anywhere.
- CB Aaron Ross, Jr. - 36 tackles, 1 interception, 3 broken up passes ... Ross never quite got on track after an early hamstring injury, but he was still effective splitting the role on the left side with Tarell Brown. The two will once again team up to handle the work with Ross the slightly more athletic of the two.
Top Backups
- CB Tarell Brown, Jr. - 42 tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 broken up passes ... Brown has good size and tremendous speed combining with Aaron Ross on the left side. He hits like a safety and is growing into a strong cover corner.
- SS Drew Kelson, Soph. - A big, strong safety with great upside as an intimidating hitter, Kelson will see more playing time if Michael Huff ends up seeing time at corner.
- FS Marcus Griffin, Soph. - 10 tackles ... Mostly a special teamer so far, Griffin will be a major player in the safety mix combining with Matt Melton behind Michael Griffin (his twin brother) at free safety.
The Texas pass defense will get a bad rap by some since the last time anyone watched it play, Braylon Edwards was making plays at will. This is a good secondary with experience and plenty of size and speed led by the versatile Michael Huff. There isn't a killer lock-down corner, but Cedric Griffin, Aaron Ross and Tarell Brown can more than handle any college receiver who isn't the next Braylon Edwards. This will be a better group than anyone will give it credit for.
Player to keep an eye on: SS Drew Kelson, Soph. ... Secondary rating: 8.5
Projected Starters
- CB Cedric Griffin, Sr. - 68 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 6 broken up passes ... Griffin has been a steady starter over the last two years with safety size and good cover abilities. He has seen time as a strong safety along with corner making 189 career tackles with three interceptions and 17 broken up passes. He's not a true lock-down corner, but at 6-2 and 193 pounds he can hold his own with the bigger receivers.
- FS Michael Griffin, Jr. - 49 tackles, 1 interception, 3 broken up passes ... The former running back can play either free or strong safety and has been the team's best special teams tackler. He has 114 career tackles despite only starting in three games, but now he'll shine taking over Phillip Geiggar's old spot.
- SS Michael Huff, Sr. - 73 tackles, 2 interceptions, 14 broken up passes ... One of the Big XII's most talented all-around defensive backs, Huff can play either corner or safety going wherever needed most. He's a better safety than a corner with his size and range, but he has the track star speed to be fine anywhere.
- CB Aaron Ross, Jr. - 36 tackles, 1 interception, 3 broken up passes ... Ross never quite got on track after an early hamstring injury, but he was still effective splitting the role on the left side with Tarell Brown. The two will once again team up to handle the work with Ross the slightly more athletic of the two.
Top Backups
- CB Tarell Brown, Jr. - 42 tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 broken up passes ... Brown has good size and tremendous speed combining with Aaron Ross on the left side. He hits like a safety and is growing into a strong cover corner.
- SS Drew Kelson, Soph. - A big, strong safety with great upside as an intimidating hitter, Kelson will see more playing time if Michael Huff ends up seeing time at corner.
- FS Marcus Griffin, Soph. - 10 tackles ... Mostly a special teamer so far, Griffin will be a major player in the safety mix combining with Matt Melton behind Michael Griffin (his twin brother) at free safety.
Special Teams
The kicking game will be slightly above-average while the return game gets a major boost with the return of Selvin Young. The kickoff coverage unit has to be far better, but the punt coverage team should be fine after allowing a mere 6.3 yards per return.
Special Teams rating: 7.5
- Placekicker David Pino, Sr. - The former walk-on has made a few kicks here and there, but he'll have to prove he can be consistent. He has a good leg and will get a couple of attempts from beyond fifty yards.
- Punter Richmond McGee,Sr. - McGee has been good averaging 40.3 yards per kick for his career with 21 inside the 20. While he isn't anything special, he won't be a liability. He's a fantastic kickoff man.
OFFENSE Returning Starters: 7
QB 10 Vince Young Jr. 6-5 230
7 Matt Nordgren Sr. 6-5 235
TB 22 Selvin Young Jr. 6-0 230 OR
11 Ramonce Taylor So. 5-11 195
FB 46 Ahmard Hall Jr. 5-11 235
32 Marcus Myers Jr. 6-3 250
SE(X) 4 Limas Sweed So. 6-5 215
23 Myron Hardy So. 6-2 210 OR
2 Brian Carter Sr. 5-11 185
FL(Z) 9 Nate Jones So. 6-2 190 ORThe kicking game will be slightly above-average while the return game gets a major boost with the return of Selvin Young. The kickoff coverage unit has to be far better, but the punt coverage team should be fine after allowing a mere 6.3 yards per return.
Special Teams rating: 7.5
- Placekicker David Pino, Sr. - The former walk-on has made a few kicks here and there, but he'll have to prove he can be consistent. He has a good leg and will get a couple of attempts from beyond fifty yards.
- Punter Richmond McGee,Sr. - McGee has been good averaging 40.3 yards per kick for his career with 21 inside the 20. While he isn't anything special, he won't be a liability. He's a fantastic kickoff man.
OFFENSE Returning Starters: 7
QB 10 Vince Young Jr. 6-5 230
7 Matt Nordgren Sr. 6-5 235
TB 22 Selvin Young Jr. 6-0 230 OR
11 Ramonce Taylor So. 5-11 195
FB 46 Ahmard Hall Jr. 5-11 235
32 Marcus Myers Jr. 6-3 250
SE(X) 4 Limas Sweed So. 6-5 215
23 Myron Hardy So. 6-2 210 OR
2 Brian Carter Sr. 5-11 185
8 Jordan Shipley RFr. 6-0 184
TE(Y) 16 David Thomas Sr. 6-3 245
87 Neale Tweedie Jr. 6-5 267
RT 63 Justin Blalock Jr. 6-4 329
78 William Winston Sr. 6-7 350
RG 72 Will Allen Sr. 6-6 315
77 Kyle Thornton So. 6-4 320
C 62 Lyle Sendlein Jr. 6-5 305
67 Dallas Griffin RFr. 6-4 280 OR
66 Brett Valdez Jr. 6-4 305
LG 64 Kasey Studdard Jr. 6-3 295 OR
51 Mike Garcia Sr. 6-3 315
LT 73 Jonathan Scott Sr. 6-7 310
79 Tony Hills So. 6-6 295
DEFENSE Returning Starters: 9
RDE 39 Brian Robison Jr. 6-3 267
99 Kaelen Jakes Sr. 6-3 270
DT 90 Rodrique Wright Sr. 6-5 305
76 Thomas Marshall So. 6-6 297 OR
91 Tully Janszen So. 6-3 280
NT 97 Frank Okam So. 6-5 315
95 Derek Lokey So. 6-2 275 OR
92 Larry Dibbles Sr. 6-2 285
LDE 80 Tim Crowder Jr. 6-4 255
98 Brian Orakpo Fr.-RS 6-4 238 OR
81 Mike Williams Jr. 6-3 240
SLB 21 Eric Foreman So. 6-4 230 OR
49 Eric Hall Sr. 6-2 245
45 Nic Redwine RFr. 6-3 225
MLB 2 Aaron Harris Sr. 6-0 235
44 Rashad Bobino RFr. 5-11 235 OR
-33 Scott Derry So. 6-3 230
WLB 40 Robert Killebrew So. 6-2 225
30 Braden Johnson Sr. 6-1 205 OR
43 Jeremy Campbell Fr.-RS 6-2 220
RCB 8 Cedric Griffin Sr. 6-2 193 OR
7 Michael Huff Sr. 6-1 205
28 Brandon Foster So. 5-9 180
FS 27 Michael Griffin Jr. 6-0 200
26 Marcus Griffin So. 6-0 190 OR
18 Matt Melton Jr. 6-0 210
SS 7 Michael Huff Sr. 6-1 205
4 Drew Kelson So. 6-2 210 OR
9 Bobby Tatum So. 6-0 190
LCB 31 Aaron Ross Jr. 6-1 189 OR
5 Tarell Brown Jr. 6-0 185
29 Ryan Palmer Fr.-RS 5-10 182
Specialists
PK 15 David Pino Sr. 5-8 180
35 Richmond McGee Sr. 6-4 203
P 35 Richmond McGee Sr. 6-4 203
97 Greg Johnson Jr. 6-1 195