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DefinitelyNotHollywoodColt

By DefinitelyNotHollywoodColt
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cafe society 2,903

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1 minute ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

So apparently Valai was a starting safety at Wisconsin during the Ash years.  Left college and became a FWK type trainer here in Texas training high school and college athletes.  Left that to go be a QC coach at Georgia for a couple of years - then took a job as a QC coach with the Chiefs in the NFL.  Was hired by Rutgers in 2019 as DB coach - his first ever on-field coaching position.

This seems like quite a big jump. 

Agree.  Sans the Rutgers sojourn he still seems too inexperienced for a coaching staff facing a make-or-break season.

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Blue Bell is announcing the release of a new flavor, Gordita Latina to be served exclusively at Texas Athletic facilities and DKR, it will feature hints of Canela, White Apples and Mexican vanilla. 

closetojumping
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A few things: -If Harrell is the OC, and the rumors are legit but don’t take anything for granted until ink is dry, then Traylor could make a return. Herman would be admitting to a mistake in let

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Schulz2.0

Schulz2.0 29,284

Posted
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4 minutes ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

So apparently Valai was a starting safety at Wisconsin during the Ash years.  Left college and became a FWK type trainer here in Texas training high school and college athletes.  Left that to go be a QC coach at Georgia for a couple of years - then took a job as a QC coach with the Chiefs in the NFL.  Was hired by Rutgers in 2019 as DB coach - his first ever on-field coaching position.

This seems like quite a big jump. 

Valai went to Colleyville Heritage.

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texasstrong12

texasstrong12 4,668

Posted
Posted (edited)
15 minutes ago, RGBIII said:

names mentioned that haven’t been before


CB- Jay Valai, Cory Robinson and Kerry Coombs

DL- Eric Robinson of the Rams 

TFB mentioned Henderson? Henderson is a stud but no clue how realistic he is. He probably still has some NFL opportunities even if the Rams make changes. 

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Hiphopopotamos

Hiphopopotamos 21,192

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Posted (edited)
4 minutes ago, Pasken said:

Do you have a link to his bio? Can't find it online.

Should be Eric Henderson - I screwed up the name.

Was Davenports coach at UTSA when he was on his way to becoming a first round draft pick.  Has recruiting ties to Texas and Louisiana.

https://www.therams.com/team/coaches-roster/eric-henderson

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texasstrong12

texasstrong12 4,668

Posted
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11 minutes ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

Should be Eric Henderson - I screwed up the name.

Was Davenports coach at UTSA when he was on his way to becoming a first round draft pick.  Has recruiting ties to Texas and Louisiana.

https://www.therams.com/team/coaches-roster/eric-henderson

A&M tried to hire him in year one under Jimbo. 

 

 

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Mason Ramsey

Mason Ramsey 3,503

Posted
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22 minutes ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

Should be Eric Henderson - I screwed up the name.

Was Davenports coach at UTSA when he was on his way to becoming a first round draft pick.  Has recruiting ties to Texas and Louisiana.

https://www.therams.com/team/coaches-roster/eric-henderson

Obviously the talent was there when he took over for the Chargers a few years ago, but Henderson had Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram wreaking havoc. And we all know how good Aaron Donald is too.

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closetojumping

closetojumping 65,507

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26 minutes ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

LOL - Cory Robinson was at Rutgers as well.

 

Cory Robinson:

2019-pres.: Defensive Passing Game Coordinator/DB’s, Maryland
2018: Cornerbacks/Passing Game Coordinator, Rutgers
2017: Cornerbacks, Temple
2016: Cornerbacks, Toledo
2015: Director of Player Personnel, Maryland
2014: Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator, St. Frances Academy HS (Md.)
2009-13: Director of Football Operations/Recruiting Coordinator/Asst. Varsity Coach, Calvery Hall College HS

The Valai guy has no business being mentioned as a candidate by anyone, and Ash should be fired immediately if the guy even gets an interview. This Robinson guy does not look any more impressive. What the fuck is going on here? The fucking $9.95ers need to be just making this shit up. Either one of these guys would be absolutely terrible hires, akin to the hires originally brought in, and would be indictments on the holistic competence of Herman and his lieutenant. Sweet fuck.

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Hiphopopotamos

Hiphopopotamos 21,192

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11 minutes ago, texasstrong12 said:

The WR and DL coaches being mentioned are good.

Those CB coaches are all meh to bad. Coombs was awful at Oklahoma. 

 

Coombs was never at Oklahoma (at least according to his profile for the Titans:  https://www.titansonline.com/team/coaches-roster/kerry-coombs

 

Kerry Coombs’ Coaching Timeline:

2018-19: Secondary, Tennessee Titans

2017: Assistant Defensive Coordinator/Cornerbacks/Special Teams Coordinator, Ohio State

2013-16: Cornerbacks/Special Teams Coordinator, Ohio State

2012: Cornerbacks, Ohio State

2009-11: Associate Head Coach/Defensive Backs/Special Teams, University of Cincinnati

2007-08: Defensive Backs, University of Cincinnati

1991-06: Head Coach, Colerain (Ohio) High School

1989-90: Head Coach, Loveland (Ohio) High School

1985-88: Assistant Coach, Lakota (Ohio) High School

1983-84: Assistant Coach, Greenhills (Ohio) High School

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texasstrong12

texasstrong12 4,668

Posted
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3 minutes ago, Hiphopopotamos said:

Coombs was never at Oklahoma (at least according to his profile for the Titans:  https://www.titansonline.com/team/coaches-roster/kerry-coombs

 

Kerry Coombs’ Coaching Timeline:

2018-19: Secondary, Tennessee Titans

2017: Assistant Defensive Coordinator/Cornerbacks/Special Teams Coordinator, Ohio State

2013-16: Cornerbacks/Special Teams Coordinator, Ohio State

2012: Cornerbacks, Ohio State

2009-11: Associate Head Coach/Defensive Backs/Special Teams, University of Cincinnati

2007-08: Defensive Backs, University of Cincinnati

1991-06: Head Coach, Colerain (Ohio) High School

1989-90: Head Coach, Loveland (Ohio) High School

1985-88: Assistant Coach, Lakota (Ohio) High School

1983-84: Assistant Coach, Greenhills (Ohio) High School

Brain fart. I was thinking of Kerry Cooks. 

But I'm not sure why Coombs would be an option as a CB coach? He's in the mix to be the Co-DC at Ohio State. He can get a lot better gig than a CB coach. Maybe we're willing to give him a title too? 

Coombs would be a hell of a hire but not sure how that's realistic. 

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UDontKnow

UDontKnow 10,572

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Posted (edited)
1 hour ago, UncleBuck said:

Need to find that one Bama fan. He should be out of prison by now. 

Harvey Updyke, what a name!

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/sec/2019/08/15/alabama-fan-who-killed-auburn-toomers-corner-trees-not-paying-up/2019890001/

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/alabama-fan-who-poisoned-auburn-trees-a-no-show-in-court

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texasstrong12

texasstrong12 4,668

Posted
Posted
Just now, Ricky Butler said:

I think this would be great and he coached with Ash there before. Why would he come? No idea. Maybe Mattison is a grumpy asshole. Maybe we'll pay better?

Coombs would be a home run hire but I don't see how it's realistic. I'm just glad I misread the name because Kerry Cooks is fucking awful. 

Ohio State fans think Coombs is going to be their Co-DC so more Buckeye tears would hilarious. 

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4th and 5

4th and 5 5,006

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not really coaching news but don't care....from behind the paywall at the Athletic

 

 

Ten predictions for Texas in 2020: On the cluster of talent at RB and what to expect against LSU and Oklahoma

sterns-predictions-1024x683.jpg
By Kaelen Jones 4h agocomment-icon.png 5 save-icon.png

AUSTIN, Texas — Running back Keaontay Ingram leapt over a defender on his way to a first down. A few plays later, quarterback Sam Ehlinger ducked through the Texas offensive line, stretching out his arm to score the Longhorns’ third touchdown of the game. The mostly burnt orange crowd inside the Alamodome voiced its approval.

As UT surged further ahead during its 38-10 drubbing of No. 11 Utah on New Year’s Eve in the Alamo Bowl, one couldn’t help but wonder what could’ve been. After all, where had this version of the Horns been for much of 2019?

Even being cautious about overvaluing bowl performances, the effort at least reaffirmed that there’s a foundation in place for coach Tom Herman’s coming pivotal fourth season.

Ehlinger, named Alamo Bowl offensive MVP, announced Monday that he’s returning for his senior year, just in case there was any question. Rising junior outside linebacker Joseph Ossai, the game’s defensive MVP, is expected to be a foundational piece for the Longhorns defense that needs to be much improved next year. New offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich and defensive coordinator Chris Ash will be tasked, in addition to Herman, with taking Texas to the next level.

Below we take a stab at forecasting 10 predictions for Texas in 2020:

1. Ossai racks up sacks.

Ash’s implementation of a four-man front is likely to mean Ossai, the 6-foot-4, 245-pounder, is more frequently deployed along the line of scrimmage as an edge rusher out of a wide-nine technique (on the outside shoulder of offensive tackles). He registered five total sacks through the 2019 season, and he should improve on that with at least 8 1/2 sacks in 2020. His three-sack outing against Utah provided a glimpse of the type of performances the Longhorns hope will occur regularly, with Ossai hounding the backfield of opposing offenses. He will have to get help from other members of UT’s front, so that opposing offenses can’t focus on taking him away.

2. The Longhorns don’t produce a 1,000-yard rusher.

Ingram is likely to lead the charge again, but the Longhorns boast a strong stable of running backs in former five-star recruits Jordan Whittington and incoming freshman Bijan Robinson. Whittington hopes to put behind him a disappointing first season, in which he appeared in just one game due to a reaggravated groin injury. In early December, he underwent another surgery to alleviate swelling and scar tissue from a first procedure in September.

Texas also has as an option rising sophomore Roschon Johnson, though it remains to be sorted if he stays at tailback or returns to the quarterback position.

How Texas manages its wealth of talent at the position — a distinct change from parts of 2019 when most of its scholarship backs were injured — will be fascinating to watch in 2020. But because of the ability to spread the ball around, it will be surprising if any one of them breaches 1,000 yards.

3. Texas beats LSU or Oklahoma.

Texas was shut out in its top-10 matchups in 2019, but it has a real chance to notch big wins against a pair of reigning College Football Playoff competitors in 2020.

Both of the losses in the ‘19 contests were by one score, and the narrow defeat to LSU in Week 3 looked increasingly impressive as the Tigers romped through the season toward the national title game.

Of course, neither LSU or Oklahoma will be the same. For the Tigers, the loss of quarterback Joe Burrow is massive. It won’t be truly clear whether Myles Brennan is a capable replacement until the Tigers face Texas, a game they’ll host on Sept. 12 in Week 2 in Baton Rouge, La.

For UT’s Red River rival, Spencer Rattler is the likely replacement for Jalen Hurts at quarterback, but there’s no immediate successor to receiver CeeDee Lamb.

Yes, both the Tigers and Sooners will have plenty of talent. But the Longhorns could be comparably as talented in most departments, with added experience and maybe a chip on their shoulders. A win over either could give Texas a signature win that it couldn’t secure in 2019.

4. Ehlinger enters conversation of elite college quarterbacks — and stays there.

Now that Ehlinger released a hype video confirming his intention to return for “one more year,” it’s time to focus on where he can grow in his senior season. He had sought NFL feedback, but leaving early never seemed a realistic option.

Ehlinger started the 2019 season strong, but he didn’t enjoy consistently high success through Big 12 play. Much of the Longhorns success in 2020 comes down to how effective he will be, especially considering the loss of top receivers Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson.

Ehlinger will be working with a new position coach in Yurcich, who coached Heisman Trophy finalist Justin Fields in 2019 at Ohio State. Ehlinger’s decision-making should continue to improve, which should lead to an uptick in completion rate and taking fewer sacks. In victories, Ehlinger’s averaged a completion percentage of 66.2 and 0.5 sacks per game. In losses, he averaged a 63.8 completion percentage and 5.2 sacks per game.

5. No scholarship QB enters the transfer portal until after the regular season.

Casey Thompson enters his redshirt sophomore season expected to spend one more year as Ehlinger’s understudy. He is in line to become the starter in 2021, though Thompson will likely have to fend off incoming freshmen Hudson Card and Ja’Quinden Jackson, along with 2021 quarterback signee Jalen Milroe. Oh, and there’s the possibility of Roschon Johnson also competing again at QB.

That competition will eventually come to a head. Per the trends across college football, it could be difficult for Texas to keep them all content.

But with Ehlinger back for 2020, the Longhorns get a season to continue to develop Thompson, who has drawn rave reviews from coaches for his growth and potential, and also get a good year of foundation with the incoming freshmen.

6. Texas spreads the ball around, and three players record at least 40 receptions.

Only one UT receiver caught 50 catches in 2019 — Duvernay, who logged 106 to rank second-most nationally. The Longhorns’ second-leading receiver was Collin Johnson, who caught 38 passes in just seven games. With both gone, UT loses 47 percent of its reception production. Receivers Jake Smith (25 catches) and Brennan Eagles (32) are the top candidates to reach the total, but Whittington, who’s versatile enough to align out of the backfield and at receiver, could be an option worth keeping in mind.

7. The Longhorns surrender 25 sacks or less.

In 2019, Texas gave up a Big 12-worst 36 sacks. Several factors played a role in that number being so high. At times, Ehlinger held onto the ball too long. Receivers struggled to get separation on routes. Sometimes, linemen failed to hold their blocks or were overwhelmed by stunts or blitzes. Despite losing All-Big 12 center Zach Shackelford and left guard Parker Braun, there’s hope for the Longhorns to improve in pass protection in 2020. Left tackle Samuel Cosmi, graded as Pro Football Focus’ No. 18 offensive lineman for the ‘19 season, will return for another year. Senior right tackle Derek Kerstetter and redshirt freshman right guard Junior Angilau will also be back. Redshirt sophomore Rafiti Ghirmai is expected to take over at center, but it’s possible the Longhorns look for a left guard replacement in the transfer market just as they did with Braun. If not, Kerstetter is versatile enough to slot in virtually anywhere along the line, and rising redshirt senior Denzel Okafor could line up at right tackle. Regardless, expect some improvement from the unit overall following another year under OL coach Herb Hand’s tutelage.

8. The pass defense ranks in the top half of the Big 12 rankings.

This is admittedly a bold take. The Longhorns finished ninth in the conference in pass defense and 127th nationally, allowing 292.5 passing yards per game. But UT’s cornerbacks should be improved — though, yes, the unit struggled so much at times in 2019 that it’s almost got to be better. But Ash’s system should enable the front seven to be more disruptive and help mitigate opposing offenses generating as many explosive plays as they did. Last year, the Longhorns gave up 154 passes of 10 yards or more, the most in FBS.

9. Caden Sterns returns to form.

An injury-plagued sophomore campaign kept Sterns from playing at the high level he did as a freshman. After being honored as the Big 12’s top freshman in 2018, Sterns battled injuries to appear in nine games. He tallied 59 total tackles and didn’t generate any turnovers. Still, Sterns looked much more like himself in the Longhorns’ Alamo Bowl victory, totaling eight tackles and one for loss. He flew around the field. Under Ash, expect Sterns to continue making plays for the Longhorns more consistently in 2020.

10. Duvernay gets drafted before Collin Johnson.

Duvernay didn’t enter the 2019 season with high NFL Draft prospects. Through his first three seasons, he registered 70 catches for 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns. He topped all of those numbers in his senior year alone to greatly enhance his draft prospects.

The Athletic’s Dane Brugler said he projects Duvernay, a slot receiver, to be chosen between the third and fifth rounds. Meanwhile, Johnson, who entered the year considered by some as the top senior receiver in the ‘20 class, appeared in only seven games because of nagging hamstring injuries. There’s a plethora of talented wideouts bearing similar size to Johnson (6-foot-6, 220 pounds), but slot targets with Duvernay’s measurables (5-foot-11, 210 pounds) are in demand. Ten of the 28 taken in last year’s draft were listed at 5-foot-11 or shorter. Duvernay boasts elite speed and has proven production. There’s reason to believe he’ll be among the top slot receivers chosen.

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texifornia

texifornia 59,038

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23 minutes ago, 4th and 5 said:

not really coaching news but don't care....from behind the paywall at the Athletic

 

 

Ten predictions for Texas in 2020: On the cluster of talent at RB and what to expect against LSU and Oklahoma

sterns-predictions-1024x683.jpg
By Kaelen Jones 4h agocomment-icon.png 5 save-icon.png

AUSTIN, Texas — Running back Keaontay Ingram leapt over a defender on his way to a first down. A few plays later, quarterback Sam Ehlinger ducked through the Texas offensive line, stretching out his arm to score the Longhorns’ third touchdown of the game. The mostly burnt orange crowd inside the Alamodome voiced its approval.

As UT surged further ahead during its 38-10 drubbing of No. 11 Utah on New Year’s Eve in the Alamo Bowl, one couldn’t help but wonder what could’ve been. After all, where had this version of the Horns been for much of 2019?

Even being cautious about overvaluing bowl performances, the effort at least reaffirmed that there’s a foundation in place for coach Tom Herman’s coming pivotal fourth season.

Ehlinger, named Alamo Bowl offensive MVP, announced Monday that he’s returning for his senior year, just in case there was any question. Rising junior outside linebacker Joseph Ossai, the game’s defensive MVP, is expected to be a foundational piece for the Longhorns defense that needs to be much improved next year. New offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich and defensive coordinator Chris Ash will be tasked, in addition to Herman, with taking Texas to the next level.

Below we take a stab at forecasting 10 predictions for Texas in 2020:

1. Ossai racks up sacks.

Ash’s implementation of a four-man front is likely to mean Ossai, the 6-foot-4, 245-pounder, is more frequently deployed along the line of scrimmage as an edge rusher out of a wide-nine technique (on the outside shoulder of offensive tackles). He registered five total sacks through the 2019 season, and he should improve on that with at least 8 1/2 sacks in 2020. His three-sack outing against Utah provided a glimpse of the type of performances the Longhorns hope will occur regularly, with Ossai hounding the backfield of opposing offenses. He will have to get help from other members of UT’s front, so that opposing offenses can’t focus on taking him away.

2. The Longhorns don’t produce a 1,000-yard rusher.

Ingram is likely to lead the charge again, but the Longhorns boast a strong stable of running backs in former five-star recruits Jordan Whittington and incoming freshman Bijan Robinson. Whittington hopes to put behind him a disappointing first season, in which he appeared in just one game due to a reaggravated groin injury. In early December, he underwent another surgery to alleviate swelling and scar tissue from a first procedure in September.

Texas also has as an option rising sophomore Roschon Johnson, though it remains to be sorted if he stays at tailback or returns to the quarterback position.

How Texas manages its wealth of talent at the position — a distinct change from parts of 2019 when most of its scholarship backs were injured — will be fascinating to watch in 2020. But because of the ability to spread the ball around, it will be surprising if any one of them breaches 1,000 yards.

3. Texas beats LSU or Oklahoma.

Texas was shut out in its top-10 matchups in 2019, but it has a real chance to notch big wins against a pair of reigning College Football Playoff competitors in 2020.

Both of the losses in the ‘19 contests were by one score, and the narrow defeat to LSU in Week 3 looked increasingly impressive as the Tigers romped through the season toward the national title game.

Of course, neither LSU or Oklahoma will be the same. For the Tigers, the loss of quarterback Joe Burrow is massive. It won’t be truly clear whether Myles Brennan is a capable replacement until the Tigers face Texas, a game they’ll host on Sept. 12 in Week 2 in Baton Rouge, La.

For UT’s Red River rival, Spencer Rattler is the likely replacement for Jalen Hurts at quarterback, but there’s no immediate successor to receiver CeeDee Lamb.

Yes, both the Tigers and Sooners will have plenty of talent. But the Longhorns could be comparably as talented in most departments, with added experience and maybe a chip on their shoulders. A win over either could give Texas a signature win that it couldn’t secure in 2019.

4. Ehlinger enters conversation of elite college quarterbacks — and stays there.

Now that Ehlinger released a hype video confirming his intention to return for “one more year,” it’s time to focus on where he can grow in his senior season. He had sought NFL feedback, but leaving early never seemed a realistic option.

Ehlinger started the 2019 season strong, but he didn’t enjoy consistently high success through Big 12 play. Much of the Longhorns success in 2020 comes down to how effective he will be, especially considering the loss of top receivers Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson.

Ehlinger will be working with a new position coach in Yurcich, who coached Heisman Trophy finalist Justin Fields in 2019 at Ohio State. Ehlinger’s decision-making should continue to improve, which should lead to an uptick in completion rate and taking fewer sacks. In victories, Ehlinger’s averaged a completion percentage of 66.2 and 0.5 sacks per game. In losses, he averaged a 63.8 completion percentage and 5.2 sacks per game.

5. No scholarship QB enters the transfer portal until after the regular season.

Casey Thompson enters his redshirt sophomore season expected to spend one more year as Ehlinger’s understudy. He is in line to become the starter in 2021, though Thompson will likely have to fend off incoming freshmen Hudson Card and Ja’Quinden Jackson, along with 2021 quarterback signee Jalen Milroe. Oh, and there’s the possibility of Roschon Johnson also competing again at QB.

That competition will eventually come to a head. Per the trends across college football, it could be difficult for Texas to keep them all content.

But with Ehlinger back for 2020, the Longhorns get a season to continue to develop Thompson, who has drawn rave reviews from coaches for his growth and potential, and also get a good year of foundation with the incoming freshmen.

6. Texas spreads the ball around, and three players record at least 40 receptions.

Only one UT receiver caught 50 catches in 2019 — Duvernay, who logged 106 to rank second-most nationally. The Longhorns’ second-leading receiver was Collin Johnson, who caught 38 passes in just seven games. With both gone, UT loses 47 percent of its reception production. Receivers Jake Smith (25 catches) and Brennan Eagles (32) are the top candidates to reach the total, but Whittington, who’s versatile enough to align out of the backfield and at receiver, could be an option worth keeping in mind.

7. The Longhorns surrender 25 sacks or less.

In 2019, Texas gave up a Big 12-worst 36 sacks. Several factors played a role in that number being so high. At times, Ehlinger held onto the ball too long. Receivers struggled to get separation on routes. Sometimes, linemen failed to hold their blocks or were overwhelmed by stunts or blitzes. Despite losing All-Big 12 center Zach Shackelford and left guard Parker Braun, there’s hope for the Longhorns to improve in pass protection in 2020. Left tackle Samuel Cosmi, graded as Pro Football Focus’ No. 18 offensive lineman for the ‘19 season, will return for another year. Senior right tackle Derek Kerstetter and redshirt freshman right guard Junior Angilau will also be back. Redshirt sophomore Rafiti Ghirmai is expected to take over at center, but it’s possible the Longhorns look for a left guard replacement in the transfer market just as they did with Braun. If not, Kerstetter is versatile enough to slot in virtually anywhere along the line, and rising redshirt senior Denzel Okafor could line up at right tackle. Regardless, expect some improvement from the unit overall following another year under OL coach Herb Hand’s tutelage.

8. The pass defense ranks in the top half of the Big 12 rankings.

This is admittedly a bold take. The Longhorns finished ninth in the conference in pass defense and 127th nationally, allowing 292.5 passing yards per game. But UT’s cornerbacks should be improved — though, yes, the unit struggled so much at times in 2019 that it’s almost got to be better. But Ash’s system should enable the front seven to be more disruptive and help mitigate opposing offenses generating as many explosive plays as they did. Last year, the Longhorns gave up 154 passes of 10 yards or more, the most in FBS.

9. Caden Sterns returns to form.

An injury-plagued sophomore campaign kept Sterns from playing at the high level he did as a freshman. After being honored as the Big 12’s top freshman in 2018, Sterns battled injuries to appear in nine games. He tallied 59 total tackles and didn’t generate any turnovers. Still, Sterns looked much more like himself in the Longhorns’ Alamo Bowl victory, totaling eight tackles and one for loss. He flew around the field. Under Ash, expect Sterns to continue making plays for the Longhorns more consistently in 2020.

10. Duvernay gets drafted before Collin Johnson.

Duvernay didn’t enter the 2019 season with high NFL Draft prospects. Through his first three seasons, he registered 70 catches for 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns. He topped all of those numbers in his senior year alone to greatly enhance his draft prospects.

The Athletic’s Dane Brugler said he projects Duvernay, a slot receiver, to be chosen between the third and fifth rounds. Meanwhile, Johnson, who entered the year considered by some as the top senior receiver in the ‘20 class, appeared in only seven games because of nagging hamstring injuries. There’s a plethora of talented wideouts bearing similar size to Johnson (6-foot-6, 220 pounds), but slot targets with Duvernay’s measurables (5-foot-11, 210 pounds) are in demand. Ten of the 28 taken in last year’s draft were listed at 5-foot-11 or shorter. Duvernay boasts elite speed and has proven production. There’s reason to believe he’ll be among the top slot receivers chosen.

There's a general offseason news thread, you know

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MirrOlure

MirrOlure 15,302

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not really coaching news but don't care....from behind the paywall at the Athletic
 

 

Ten predictions for Texas in 2020: On the cluster of talent at RB and what to expect against LSU and Oklahoma
sterns-predictions-1024x683.jpgBy Kaelen Jones 4h agocomment-icon.png 5 save-icon.png AUSTIN, Texas — Running back Keaontay Ingram leapt over a defender on his way to a first down. A few plays later, quarterback Sam Ehlinger ducked through the Texas offensive line, stretching out his arm to score the Longhorns’ third touchdown of the game. The mostly burnt orange crowd inside the Alamodome voiced its approval.
As UT surged further ahead during its 38-10 drubbing of No. 11 Utah on New Year’s Eve in the Alamo Bowl, one couldn’t help but wonder what could’ve been. After all, where had this version of the Horns been for much of 2019?
Even being cautious about overvaluing bowl performances, the effort at least reaffirmed that there’s a foundation in place for coach Tom Herman’s coming pivotal fourth season.
Ehlinger, named Alamo Bowl offensive MVP, announced Monday that he’s returning for his senior year, just in case there was any question. Rising junior outside linebacker Joseph Ossai, the game’s defensive MVP, is expected to be a foundational piece for the Longhorns defense that needs to be much improved next year. New offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich and defensive coordinator Chris Ash will be tasked, in addition to Herman, with taking Texas to the next level.
Below we take a stab at forecasting 10 predictions for Texas in 2020:
1. Ossai racks up sacks.
Ash’s implementation of a four-man front is likely to mean Ossai, the 6-foot-4, 245-pounder, is more frequently deployed along the line of scrimmage as an edge rusher out of a wide-nine technique (on the outside shoulder of offensive tackles). He registered five total sacks through the 2019 season, and he should improve on that with at least 8 1/2 sacks in 2020. His three-sack outing against Utah provided a glimpse of the type of performances the Longhorns hope will occur regularly, with Ossai hounding the backfield of opposing offenses. He will have to get help from other members of UT’s front, so that opposing offenses can’t focus on taking him away.
2. The Longhorns don’t produce a 1,000-yard rusher.
Ingram is likely to lead the charge again, but the Longhorns boast a strong stable of running backs in former five-star recruits Jordan Whittington and incoming freshman Bijan Robinson. Whittington hopes to put behind him a disappointing first season, in which he appeared in just one game due to a reaggravated groin injury. In early December, he underwent another surgery to alleviate swelling and scar tissue from a first procedure in September.
Texas also has as an option rising sophomore Roschon Johnson, though it remains to be sorted if he stays at tailback or returns to the quarterback position.
How Texas manages its wealth of talent at the position — a distinct change from parts of 2019 when most of its scholarship backs were injured — will be fascinating to watch in 2020. But because of the ability to spread the ball around, it will be surprising if any one of them breaches 1,000 yards.
3. Texas beats LSU or Oklahoma.
Texas was shut out in its top-10 matchups in 2019, but it has a real chance to notch big wins against a pair of reigning College Football Playoff competitors in 2020.
Both of the losses in the ‘19 contests were by one score, and the narrow defeat to LSU in Week 3 looked increasingly impressive as the Tigers romped through the season toward the national title game.
Of course, neither LSU or Oklahoma will be the same. For the Tigers, the loss of quarterback Joe Burrow is massive. It won’t be truly clear whether Myles Brennan is a capable replacement until the Tigers face Texas, a game they’ll host on Sept. 12 in Week 2 in Baton Rouge, La.
For UT’s Red River rival, Spencer Rattler is the likely replacement for Jalen Hurts at quarterback, but there’s no immediate successor to receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Yes, both the Tigers and Sooners will have plenty of talent. But the Longhorns could be comparably as talented in most departments, with added experience and maybe a chip on their shoulders. A win over either could give Texas a signature win that it couldn’t secure in 2019.
4. Ehlinger enters conversation of elite college quarterbacks — and stays there.
Now that Ehlinger released a hype video confirming his intention to return for “one more year,” it’s time to focus on where he can grow in his senior season. He had sought NFL feedback, but leaving early never seemed a realistic option.
Ehlinger started the 2019 season strong, but he didn’t enjoy consistently high success through Big 12 play. Much of the Longhorns success in 2020 comes down to how effective he will be, especially considering the loss of top receivers Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson.
Ehlinger will be working with a new position coach in Yurcich, who coached Heisman Trophy finalist Justin Fields in 2019 at Ohio State. Ehlinger’s decision-making should continue to improve, which should lead to an uptick in completion rate and taking fewer sacks. In victories, Ehlinger’s averaged a completion percentage of 66.2 and 0.5 sacks per game. In losses, he averaged a 63.8 completion percentage and 5.2 sacks per game.
5. No scholarship QB enters the transfer portal until after the regular season.
Casey Thompson enters his redshirt sophomore season expected to spend one more year as Ehlinger’s understudy. He is in line to become the starter in 2021, though Thompson will likely have to fend off incoming freshmen Hudson Card and Ja’Quinden Jackson, along with 2021 quarterback signee Jalen Milroe. Oh, and there’s the possibility of Roschon Johnson also competing again at QB.
That competition will eventually come to a head. Per the trends across college football, it could be difficult for Texas to keep them all content.
But with Ehlinger back for 2020, the Longhorns get a season to continue to develop Thompson, who has drawn rave reviews from coaches for his growth and potential, and also get a good year of foundation with the incoming freshmen.
6. Texas spreads the ball around, and three players record at least 40 receptions.
Only one UT receiver caught 50 catches in 2019 — Duvernay, who logged 106 to rank second-most nationally. The Longhorns’ second-leading receiver was Collin Johnson, who caught 38 passes in just seven games. With both gone, UT loses 47 percent of its reception production. Receivers Jake Smith (25 catches) and Brennan Eagles (32) are the top candidates to reach the total, but Whittington, who’s versatile enough to align out of the backfield and at receiver, could be an option worth keeping in mind.
7. The Longhorns surrender 25 sacks or less.
In 2019, Texas gave up a Big 12-worst 36 sacks. Several factors played a role in that number being so high. At times, Ehlinger held onto the ball too long. Receivers struggled to get separation on routes. Sometimes, linemen failed to hold their blocks or were overwhelmed by stunts or blitzes. Despite losing All-Big 12 center Zach Shackelford and left guard Parker Braun, there’s hope for the Longhorns to improve in pass protection in 2020. Left tackle Samuel Cosmi, graded as Pro Football Focus’ No. 18 offensive lineman for the ‘19 season, will return for another year. Senior right tackle Derek Kerstetter and redshirt freshman right guard Junior Angilau will also be back. Redshirt sophomore Rafiti Ghirmai is expected to take over at center, but it’s possible the Longhorns look for a left guard replacement in the transfer market just as they did with Braun. If not, Kerstetter is versatile enough to slot in virtually anywhere along the line, and rising redshirt senior Denzel Okafor could line up at right tackle. Regardless, expect some improvement from the unit overall following another year under OL coach Herb Hand’s tutelage.
8. The pass defense ranks in the top half of the Big 12 rankings.
This is admittedly a bold take. The Longhorns finished ninth in the conference in pass defense and 127th nationally, allowing 292.5 passing yards per game. But UT’s cornerbacks should be improved — though, yes, the unit struggled so much at times in 2019 that it’s almost got to be better. But Ash’s system should enable the front seven to be more disruptive and help mitigate opposing offenses generating as many explosive plays as they did. Last year, the Longhorns gave up 154 passes of 10 yards or more, the most in FBS.
9. Caden Sterns returns to form.
An injury-plagued sophomore campaign kept Sterns from playing at the high level he did as a freshman. After being honored as the Big 12’s top freshman in 2018, Sterns battled injuries to appear in nine games. He tallied 59 total tackles and didn’t generate any turnovers. Still, Sterns looked much more like himself in the Longhorns’ Alamo Bowl victory, totaling eight tackles and one for loss. He flew around the field. Under Ash, expect Sterns to continue making plays for the Longhorns more consistently in 2020.
10. Duvernay gets drafted before Collin Johnson.
Duvernay didn’t enter the 2019 season with high NFL Draft prospects. Through his first three seasons, he registered 70 catches for 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns. He topped all of those numbers in his senior year alone to greatly enhance his draft prospects.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler said he projects Duvernay, a slot receiver, to be chosen between the third and fifth rounds. Meanwhile, Johnson, who entered the year considered by some as the top senior receiver in the ‘20 class, appeared in only seven games because of nagging hamstring injuries. There’s a plethora of talented wideouts bearing similar size to Johnson (6-foot-6, 220 pounds), but slot targets with Duvernay’s measurables (5-foot-11, 210 pounds) are in demand. Ten of the 28 taken in last year’s draft were listed at 5-foot-11 or shorter. Duvernay boasts elite speed and has proven production. There’s reason to believe he’ll be among the top slot receivers chosen.

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Mor. Want mor
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Vertigo

Vertigo 20,500

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25 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

Some of us don’t subscribe, asshole. Are they really floating Lupoi? If there’s a tone deaf motherfucker that could bring in a guy like that at Texas, it’s Herman. 

Your vitriol this past 8 weeks for Herman has been a joy to watch and top flight entertainment, but I feel like the potential assistants on the board (not including Lupoi ffs) are going to make it hard to not have a vastly upgraded staff when all is said and done. Please don't let that diffuse your hate, just throwing it out there. 

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Bevo

Bevo 13,905

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45 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

Some of us don’t subscribe, asshole. Are they really floating Lupoi? If there’s a tone deaf motherfucker that could bring in a guy like that at Texas, it’s Herman. 

I thought you were for Lupoi because it showed that we were willing to play the game. Guess I misremembered. Anyway, they are just throwing out names - As usual, they don't have a clue.

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closetojumping

closetojumping 65,507

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3 minutes ago, Bevo said:

I thought you were for Lupoi because it showed that we were willing to play the game. Guess I misremembered. Anyway, they are just throwing out names - As usual, they don't have a clue.

I’m at the point of not giving a shit about paying players. I’d be at the airport with the band to welcome Lupoi to town. 

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Dbeasy

Dbeasy 15,612

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I’m at the point of not giving a shit about paying players. I’d be at the airport with the band to welcome Lupoi to town. 


Funny you mentioned that. Was talking with some baby BMD’s who’ve staunchly defended playing the game the right way for the last twenty years, refusing to start paying players. They are getting very pissed off now at what’s happening at Georgia, A&M, LSU, etc. with no NCAA anywhere in sight. That, combined with the sham process from the basketball scandal, has folks finally starting to contemplate that type of move. It’s sad really but I don’t blame people for being frustrated. I am too.
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