David Ash out with concussion-like symptoms
Charlie Strong announced at his weekly press conference that starting quarterback David Ash would not play this weekend against BYU due to an injury sustained in the 1st quarter of the North Texas game. Ash left the game and called the Texas staff from home later that night, mentioning he was experiencing headaches and dizziness.
Which hit did the damage? “It was the first hit he took†said Strong. “We know because he told us he thought it was.â€
Ash played the entire game without mentioning the symptoms to his coaches, trainers or even his teammates, although it’s quite possible the symptoms did not reveal themselves until later.
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Backup quarterback Tyrone Swoopes will be handed the keys to the offense with the goal of simply managing the game. Swoopes, a sophomore, played in 5 games last season completing 5 passes for 26 yards.
True freshman Jerrod Heard will assume the backup spot to Swoopes.
The speculation will begin as to whether David Ash will think about giving up football after this latest head injury. “That’s a decision him and his family will need to make†said Strong. “We will never jeopardize a young man’s health. You have to be concerned for David Ash.â€
Dominic Espinosa to have surgery
After suffering right ankle injury late in the North Texas game, it was confirmed by Strong that senior center Dominic Espinosa suffered a fracture and will require surgery. Espinosa started 40 games for the Longhorns over his career at Texas and was replaced by redshirt freshman Jake Raulerson after the injury occurred. There is no timetable on a return this season for Espinosa.
The Longhorns will face BYU on Saturday night at 6:30 pm at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin.
