Five keys to the game for No.21 Texas vs. UTSA on Saturday
Texas hosts UTSA on Saturday night for the first-ever matchup between the two in-state programs.
Each team enters the ballgame with a 1-1 record. Texas comfortably handled UL Monroe in its first game before losing a heartbreak to No. 1 Alabama in Week 2. UTSA dropped an overtime thriller to Houston to open the season before getting back on track last week against Army.
The Longhorns look to avoid a trap game situation against the Roadrunners. Texas is coming off a hard-fought battle against Alabama and could be caught looking ahead to Big 12 play next week.
UTSA won 12 games a year ago and returns star quarterback Frank Harris. Head coach Jeff Traylor has the program on the rise in San Antonio.
Texas is entering this battle a bit banged up. Starting quarterback Quinn Ewers is out for a few weeks with an SC sprain while Bijan Robinson, Hudson Card and D’Shawn Jamison are all day to day with injuries of their own.
Here are five keys to the game for Texas vs. UTSA this weekend.
Establish the run
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Texas needs to get back to its bread and butter on offense. Getting the ball to its talented group of running backs led by Bijan Robinson should be a priority for Steve Sarkisian. Establishing the run will open up some easier passing plays for Hudson Card or Charles Wright.
Keep the quarterback on his feet
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Depth is a major issue for Texas at the quarterback position. Quinn Ewers is out for a few weeks, Hudson Card is not at full strength and Maalik Murphy is unavailable with an injury. Texas has to keep its quarterbacks protected and comfortable in the pocket to avoid disaster going forward.
Limit explosive plays
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UTSA boasts one of the more dynamic offenses in the nation. Texas must do a good job of limiting the explosive plays that make the Roadrunners so good. A few long touchdowns could be the difference maker on Saturday night.
Make Frank Harris uncomfortable in the pocket
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Texas’ defense played outstanding against Alabama last week. The Longhorns limited the Tide to just 20 points by applying tons of pressure on Bryce Young. A similar formula can turn into more success for the Texas defense against UTSA.
Win the turnover battle
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The turnover battle is often what turns close games into upsets. Texas has to take care of the football and create turnovers on the defensive side or UTSA will be right in the middle of this game.
