Longhorns and Bears: What to Watch for

No. 1 Texas, Arch Manning, come down to earth in team’s 30-6 win over UTSA

Game Day: UTSA Roadrunners @ No. 1 Texas Longhorns

https://www.hornsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/wtwf_baylor.jpg The eyes of Texas will be on David Ash and the running game this weekend when the Bears come to town. Photo: I’ll Never Grow Up

Here are 5 things Iâ€™m interested in most for this game. (No particular order).

1. David Ash: Much like the WVU game, this game against Baylor is shaping up to be a shoot out. I want to see how David Ash responds after his worst game all season. The Longhorns will need him to play his best football if they want to keep up with the Baylor offense all day.

2. Secondary: Baylor has many fast, quick receivers that are the strengths of their strong offense. Once again the secondary will be put to a test. Watching this squad has been deflating and Iâ€™d love to sit down with Duane Akina and get his take one whatâ€™s causing the regression in play. But you better believe Art Briles will challenge that group all night long.

3. Running Backs: The Longhorn offense was lack luster in Dallas last weekend and the running game didnâ€™t even eclipse 75 yards. But I fully expect Joe Bergeron, Jonathan Gray, and the rest of the running backs to have big days against the weak Bearâ€™s defense.

4. Defensive End: Jackson Jeffcoat is done for the season, which leaves the defensive end position opposite Alex Okafor open for any player to take it. Reggie Wilson will get the first crack at securing the job but freshman Shiro Davis and sophomore Cedric Reed will also get a chance to get playing time and compete for the spot as well.

5. Stop The Run: Though the Bearâ€™s are more known for their passing attack, I want to see if the Longhorns defense has finally figured out an answer to stopping the run. This may be the most important aspect I pay attention to all evening long. If Texas could figure out how to stop the run, like have had for so many years, their defenses would make a big step in improvement.

This game will tell everyone a lot about what type of team Texas really is this year. I think a win could put this team back on track. But a loss could derail the entire season. Right now the Longhorns are in a crossroad, and how they come out and play after the worst loss I can remember will say a lot about how they will come out and play the rest of the season.

Hookâ€™em

The game on Saturday will be played in Austin, Texas.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 P.M. (CT)Notable Injuries: David Ash, QB (wrist â€“ Probable); Jordan Hicks, LB (hip – Out); Donald Hawkins, OL (ankle – Questionable); Brandon Moore, DT (neck – Doubtful)