The 2016 season is just around the corner and the Texas Longhorns are looking to make significant strides from their struggles on offense last season. Under Sterlin Gilbert’s new spread offense, there will be a lot of passing, and frequently. However, teams like Baylor and Oregon have shown that running the ball from the spread is key to keeping the defense off balance.
Texas will have a stable of talented backs to choose from, and to use in certain situations. D’Onta Foreman and Chris Warren will most likely get the majority of the carries out of the backfield. Foreman showed off his talents throughout last year, having multiple bright spots, including an 80-yard dash in the fourth quarter against Oklahoma.
Warren didn’t see much time last year, but made the most of it. He had his breakout game on Thanksgiving night against Texas Tech, when he broke the freshman record for most yards in a game.
Kirk Johnson saw limited action last year as well, but could see more playing time this season with the fast pace of the offense and the necessity to have fresh legs.
Two other running backs to keep an eye on are Tristian Houston, a track star from Galena Park North Shore and incoming superstar Kyle Porter. Houston spent last season red-shirting and building up his body to be able to withstand a season of college ball. Porter, who may have the most upside of any of these guys, could see the field and contribute as a true freshman. Receiver Deandre McNeal has shown an ability to take the ball out of the backfield as well, and could be used on jet sweeps and other outside runs. Needless to say, the arsenal that Gilbert has at his disposal is not lacking in talent.
Look for Texas to keep the 18-wheeler package as part of the offense. Tyrone Swoopes excelled in the role of bulldozer last season, especially in goal line and short yardage situations. Throw in a couple of passes to that formation to keep the defense on their toes, and Texas could have a very versatile option to work with on 3rd or 4th and short. The Longhorns did not feature this package in the spring game, but in the fall, it will most likely be in Gilbert’s plans. No one has ever doubted Swoopes’ running ability, and with his big frame it is difficult for opponents to bring him down. If the offense can get seven or eight yards on first and second down, slowing down a little bit to bring Swoopes in and move the chains would be an ideal strategy.
Sticking with the quarterback theme, despite Jerrod Heard’s regression as a passer throughout the year, he certainly showed off his wheels during his playing time. While it is unclear exactly how Heard fits into Gilbert’s plans at the moment, he could also be used in a wildcat or a trick play situation with his running ability.
Heralded recruit and early enrollee Shane Buechele is likely to play this season, and won’t hesitate to scramble if given the opportunity.
With the running talent the Longhorns possess, it is inevitable that the coaches exploit it. Just because a new spread offense is implemented, doesn’t Texas will stray away from its strength. And Texas’ absolute greatest strength on offense is the ability to run the ball. Charlie Strong and Sterlin Gilbert know this and will work the running game into what is known traditionally as a very pass-happy offense.
