No. 2 Longhorns run away with 56-7 victory over UTSA

Entering Saturday’s game against UTSA, there were a few storylines. However, Texas’ week three matchup left us with many more storylines due to the injury bug. Following a smooth start, quarterback Quinn Ewers was forced to leave the contest in the second quarter due to a bruised abdomen. Despite the injury, Arch Manning and the Texas offense sped right past the Roadrunners with ease in a 56-7 win.

On Saturday, the Longhorns were no stranger to a fast start. After a quarter of action, quarterback Quinn Ewers had two touchdown passes and the Texas defense was on fire. However, after the injury to Ewers, doubt crept into the hearts of Texas fans. But, with Arch Manning, fans did not have to feel doubtful for long.

After taking over at quarterback, Manning accounted for a total of five touchdowns. The highlight of which might have been his massive 67-yard rushing touchdown, which was made possible due to a well-timed juke. However, Manning was electric through the air as well – throwing touchdowns to four different Longhorn receivers. When it was all said and done, Manning had accumulated a total of 276 all-purpose yards.

Defensively, the Longhorns defense did the job. At times it was not pretty, such as allowing a 53-yard touchdown rush to UTSA running back Robert Henry Jr, but it got the job done. Furthermore, the defense limited the Roadrunners to 260 all-purpose yards. Interestingly enough, UTSA quarterback Owen McCown was able to complete 72% of his passes, despite only passing for 132 yards. As a result, the Longhorns defense forced eight punts on the night. Importantly, the team’s youth also shined on the field against UTSA. For example, sophomore Anthony Hill Jr. finished with a game-high 11 tackles, while freshman Colin Simmons tallied his first sack.

Thankfully for Texas fans, there is a lot to be excited about despite of the injuries. For one, the receiving core looks to be even more versatile than last year’s squad (which was pretty darn good). In addition to Wingo’s 127 receiving yards, Isaiah Bond also surpassed the 100-yard mark with 103 yards and a touchdown. Moreover, the defense seems to have more playmakers this season. While Jahdae Barron is the glue of the secondary, the addition of Andrew Mukuba has already been of immense help. Also, adding Colin Simmons has enhanced the team’s pass rushing capabilities.

However, questions remain about this year’s team – one being the question of health. Can the Longhorns stay healthy? A healthy Quinn Ewers and a healthy running back room are important for long-term success. Being without Jaydon Blue against UTSA is one thing, but the Longhorns will be in desperate need of his services soon. Along with health, the defense will be tested in much larger fashion against teams like Georgia and Oklahoma. While these questions remain, you cannot help but feel optimistic about this year’s Longhorns team. But, as always, time will tell.

Next weekend, the Longhorns will host the University of Louisiana Monroe. Kickoff from Austin, TX will be set for 7 P.M. (CT), and will be televised on ESPN+.