MANHATTAN, KS — Despite a makeshift offensive line and several starters deciding to opt-out for the remainder of the season, the Texas Longhorns (6-3, 5-3 Big 12) put together their most impressive game of the season on Saturday against Kansas State (4-6, 4-5 Big 12) in Manhattan.
Led by true freshman Bijan Robinson, the Texas ground attack got started early and didn’t let up, enabling the Longhorns’ 69-31 thrashing of the Wildcats. Robinson finished his day with 179 yards on nine carries, including a 75 yard touchdown run. Sophmore Roschon Johnson rushed 14 times for 142 yards. Each had three touchdowns in what became the team’s fourth straight win over Kansas State and their second-straight in the Little Apple.
The rushing effort by Robinson and Johnson marked the first time the Longhorns produced two 100-yard rushers since the 2016 season.
Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger threw for 274 yards and a pair of touchdown passes, both to his tight ends Cade Brewer and Malcolm Epps.
Senior offensive lineman Derek Kerstetter suffered a nasty ankle injury midway through the second quarter and was carted off the field. Kerstetter’s injury was officially classified as a dislocated ankle, and he returned to the team’s locker room after spending time at the hospital. The offensive line played exceptionally well, protecting Sam Ehlinger all day and allowing the Longhorn tailbacks to find holes and enjoy success.
Kick returner D’shawn Jamison continues to produce, gaining 150 yards on three returns (including one for 98 yards).
Kansas State quarterback Will Howard threw two touchdown passes, both to Malik Knowles, but committed two turnovers in the form of interceptions by DB Jerrin Thompson and LB David Gbenda. The INT’s were the first for Thompson and Gbenda at Texas.
Freshman Deuce Vaughn dazzled for the Wildcats, rushing for 127 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries.
Saturday’s win marked the most points scored by the Longhorns under head coach Tom Herman and was the team’s most productive output of points since the 2005 Big 12 Championship in which they scored 70 points.
The Longhorns close out their regular season next Saturday in Lawrence against the Kansas Jayhawks at 2:30 pm.
