Pads come on tonight – 3 keys for Tuesday

This evening the Horns practice in full pads for the 1st time in fall camp. UT is allowing media access, so we’ll have it covered from start to finish (note: UT doesn’t allow any live reporting during practice, so there won’t be updates before 8pm). Additionally, Charlie Strong will talk to reporters after practice.

Being in pads adds a whole new dimension to practices. With more than “shells” all positions are able to fully participate in scrimmage work, and more accurate assessments can be made of individual performances. Here are some things I’ll be watching tonight:

1. It’s your turn, Jerrod

Heard’s supporters and Swoopes’ detractors all say that the redshirt freshman’s advantage is his ability to keep the chains moving via running the football. If I was Charlie Strong, I wouldn’t subscribe to the “he’s a gamer not a practice player” theory.

If Heard is going to “win the team” or have a chance for meaningful playing time, then he needs to elevate his performance starting tonight. Whistles blow quickly and QB’s don’t get taken to the ground, but those things shouldn’t prevent Heard from making a statement.

The popular line of thinking is that Heard’s advantage in running is commensurate with Swoopes’ advantage in passing. Let’s see it.

2. Is the offensive line like red wine?

2014’s OL play was the worst Longhorn fans have endured in recent memory. The good news is that all those inexperienced players gained invaluable rep’s for an entire season.

Like Heard, the offensive line needs to look improved tonight. At this point their improvement is nothing more than a hypothesis grounded in logic.

Another reason the OL should look good is that the front 7 on defense is young and/or inexperienced. The interior trio (Perkins – Doyle – Flowers) should absolutely have the advantage tonight.

3. 1 + 2 = running game

Add the first two points and you’ve got a recipe for a ground game that should move the ball with a level of consistent success that did not exist last season. The threat of a QB rush plus improved play up front should result in room to run for Johnathan Gray.

Additionally, how the running game fits with the new spread/tempo offense is an unknown. Possessing the football and wearing a defense down begins with a solid rushing attack….or so we’re told.

Speaking of a running game, is anybody ready to step up as the No. 2 running back?