Texas Must Win the Trenches to Stop the Slide Against Ole Miss

The Longhorns need a physical running game to help Arch Manning, sustain drives and regain control of their offense.

Texas needs its offensive line to set the tone against Ole Miss.

After consecutive losses to Oklahoma and Florida, the Longhorns must establish a running game that gives their offense something dependable. That starts with movement at the line of scrimmage, finishing blocks and creating space before defenders reach the backfield.

Texas cannot afford to spend another game fighting through second-and-long and third-and-long. Those situations allow defenses to attack Arch Manning, complicate protection and increase the pressure on every throw.

The assignment becomes more difficult without Hollywood Smothers, who has been ruled out. Raleek Brown and freshman Derrek Cooper, listed as probable, become especially important. Whoever handles the carries needs an offensive line that creates a clear first read and an opportunity to reach the second level.

Texas does not need every run to become an explosive play. Consistent four- and five-yard gains would keep the playbook open, create manageable third downs and make Steve Sarkisian’s play-action concepts more effective. Forcing linebackers to respect the run can open throwing windows for Manning.

The physicality must extend beyond the five offensive linemen. Tight ends must secure the edge, receivers must finish their assignments and the backs must make decisive cuts. One missed block can erase an otherwise well-executed play.

A productive ground game would also help Texas’ defense. Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and running back Kewan Lacy present a difficult combination, especially with Colin Simmons unavailable. Sustained possessions would give the Longhorns’ depleted defense valuable rest and reduce the Rebels’ opportunities.

Coach Sarkisian must remain committed to the run, but that commitment needs to produce efficient football. Texas must identify favorable matchups, adjust when Ole Miss crowds the line and avoid allowing unsuccessful early carries to dictate the entire afternoon.

The Longhorns have enough offensive talent to respond. Against Ole Miss, their offensive line must turn that talent into a physical identity.

If Texas wants to stop its losing streak, it needs to start by moving the men in front of it.