2009 Fiesta Bowl
Texas Longhorns Game Preview
Texas Longhorns Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, Jaxbuck, JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
Now that you've stocked up on enough Tostitos and salsa to make it through Monday night, it's time to read about the Fiesta Bowl matchup in detail. Our writers have once again gone through loads of data in order to put together BP's game preview. Thanks should go out to 3yards for initiating these previews and getting us organized; and special thanks this year are due to bkb, who's done more than his share of the load during this season.
Along with being the rubber match for the recent series against Texas, this game will decide who ends this season with the third spot in all-time winning percentage.
Programs ranked in winning percentage, all-time(as of 12-31-08):
.7382 Michigan (no need to factor in their bowl game result)
.7360 Notre Dame (after beating Hawaii)
.7157 Ohio State
.7156 Texas (using 4-5-2 in 1896, and counting 3 '90s forfeits as losses)
.7153 Oklahoma
.7092 Alabama
Both Fiesta Bowl teams are members of the exclusive 800-win club, which the Buckeyes joined early this season.
Most wins in college football history, all-time (as of 12-30-08):
872 Michigan (no need to factor in their bowl game result)
854 Yale
831 Texas (this also counts 3 '90s forfeits by other teams as losses)
831 Notre Dame (after beating Hawaii)
826 Nebraska
808 Ohio State
801 Penn State
799 Alabama
798 Harvard
792 Penn
784 Princeton
789 Oklahoma
776 Tennessee
764 Southern California
Discounting the 4 Ivy League schools, the above list includes the top 10 teams in the history of major college football, whether total wins or winning percentage (discounting newcomer Boise State) are used.
It's a fairly rare occurrence that these top 10 teams play each other outside of conference play, but it's happening in both the Rose and the Fiesta Bowls this season. Let's look at how the top-10 teams have performed against each other, in all games and just in bowl games.
Here are the all-time records among the top 10 teams in winning % (e.g., Texas is 1-0 against Michigan):
Team....Texas..Michigan..NotreDame..SoCal..Alabama ..Penn St..Oklahoma..Nebraska..Ohio St...Tennessee....Total
.
Texas....N/A....1-0-0.....2-8-0.....1-4-0...7-0-1....2-3-0...58-40-5....8-4-0.....1-1-0......2-1-0.....82-61-6
.........N/A....1.000.....0.200.....0.200...0.938....0.400... 0.587.....0.667.....0.500......0.667.....0.570
.
Mich....0-1-0....N/A.....20-15-1....4-6-0...2-1-0...10-4-0.....0-1-0....3-2-1....57-42-6.....0-1-0.....96-73-8
........0.000....N/A......0.569.....0.400...0.667....0.714.....0.000. ..0.583.....0.571......0.000.....0.565
.
N.D.....8-2-0..15-20-1.....N/A.....42-33-5..5-1-0....9-9-1.....8-1-0....7-8-1.....2-3-0......4-4-0.....100-81-8
........0.800...0.431......N/A......0.556...0.833....0.500.....0.889....0.469.. . 0.400......0.500.....0.550
.
SoCal...4-1-0...6-4-0....33-42-5.....N/A....2-5-0....4-4-0.....6-2-1....3-0-1....12-9-1......4-0-0.....74-67-8
........0.800...0.600.....0.444......N/A....0.286....0.500.....0.722....0.875.....0.568.. . .1.000.....0.523
.
Bama....0-7-1...1-2-0.....1-5-0.....5-2-0....N/A.....8-5-0.....1-2-1....3-2-0.....3-0-0.....46-38-7....68-63-9
........0.062...0.333.....0.167.....0.714....N/A.....0.615.....0.375....0.600.....1.000......0.54 4 ...0.518
.
PennSt..3-2-0...4-10-0....9-9-1.....4-4-0...5-8-0.....N/A......0-2-0....7-6-0....12-12-0.....3-2-0.....47-55-1
........0.600...0.286.....0.500.....0.500...0.385. ...N/A......0.000....0.538.....0.500......0.600.....0.4 61
.
Okla...40-58-5..1-0-0.....1-8-0.....2-6-1...2-1-1....2-0-0.....N/A....44-37-3.....1-1-0......1-1-0.....94-112-10
........0.413...1.000.....0.111.....0.278...0.625. ..1.000.....N/A......0.542.....0.500......0.500.....0.458
.
Nebr....4-8-0...2-3-1.....8-7-1.....0-3-1...2-3-0....6-7-0....37-44-3....N/A......0-2-0......2-0-0.....61-77-6
........0.333...0.417.....0.531.....0.125...0.400. ..0.462.....0.458.....N/A......0.000......1.000.....0.444
.
OhioSt..1-1-0..42-57-6....3-2-0.....9-12-1..0-3-0...12-12-0....1-1-0....2-0-0......N/A.......0-1-0.....70-89-7
........0.500...0.429.....0.600.....0.432...0.000. ..0.500.....0.500....1.000......N/A.......0.000.....0.443
.
Tenn....1-2-0...1-0-0.....4-4-0.....0-4-0..38-46-7...2-3-0.....1-1-0....0-2-0.....1-0-0.......N/A......48-62-7
........0.333...1.000.....0.500.....0.000...0.456. ..0.400.....0.500....0.000.....1.000.......N/A......0.440
Here are the head-to-head bowl records among the top 10 teams in winning % (e.g., Texas is 1-0 against Michigan):
Team....Texas..Michigan..NotreDame..SoCal..Alabama ..Penn St..Oklahoma..Nebraska..Ohio St...Tennessee....Total
Texas....N/A....1-0-0.....1-2-0.....1-0-0...4-0-1....0-2-0.....0-0-0....0-1-0.....0-0-0......2-1-0.....9-6-1
.........N/A....1.000.....0.333.....1.000...0.900....0.000... -.---.....0.000.....-.---......0.667.....0.594
Mich....0-1-0....N/A......0-0-0.....2-6-0...2-1-0....0-0-0.....0-1-0....1-1-0.....0-0-0......0-1-0.....5-11-0
........0.000....N/A......-.---.....0.333...0.667....-.---.....0.000. ..0.500.....-.---......0.000.....0.313
N.D.....2-1-0...0-0-0......N/A......0-0-0...2-0-0....1-0-0.....0-0-0....0-1-0.....0-1-0......0-0-0.....5-3-0
........0.667...-.---......N/A......-.---...1.000....1.000.....-.---....0.000.. . 0.000......-.---.....0.625
SoCal...0-1-0...6-2-0.....0-0-0......N/A....0-2-0....1-1-0.....1-0-0....0-0-0.....4-3-0......2-0-0.....14-9-0
........0.000...0.750.....-.---......N/A....0.000....0.500.....1.000....-.---.....0.571.. . .1.000.....0.609
Bama....0-4-1...1-2-0.....0-2-0.....2-0-0....N/A.....2-1-0.....1-0-1....2-1-0.....2-0-0......0-0-0.....10-10-2
........0.100...0.333.....0.000.....1.000....N/A.....0.667.....0.750....0.667.....1.000......-.---.....0.500
PennSt..2-0-0...1-2-0.....0-1-0.....1-1-0...1-2-0.....N/A......0-2-0....0-0-0......1-0-0.....3-0-0.....8-6-0
........1.000...0.333.....0.000.....0.500...0.333. ...N/A......0.000....-.---.....1.000......1.000.....0.571
Okla....0-0-0...1-0-0.....0-0-0.....0-1-0...0-1-1....2-0-0.....N/A......1-0-0.....0-0-0......1-1-0.....5-3-1
........-.---...1.000.....-.---.....0.000...0.250. ..1.000.....N/A......1.000.....-.---......0.500.....0.611
Nebr....1-0-0...1-1-0.....1-0-0.....0-0-0...1-2-0....0-0-0.....0-1-0.....N/A......0-0-0......2-0-0.....6-4-0
........1.000...0.500.....1.000.....-.---...0.333. ..-.---.....0.000.....N/A......-.---......1.000.....0.600
OhioSt..0-0-0...0-0-0.....1-0-0.....3-4-0...0-2-0....0-1-0.....0-0-0....0-0-0......N/A.......0-1-0.....4-8-0
........-.---...-.---.....1.000.....0.429...0.000. ..0.000.....-.---....-.---......N/A.......0.000.....0.333
Tenn....1-2-0...1-0-0.....0-0-0.....0-2-0...0-0-0....0-3-0.....1-1-0....0-2-0.....1-0-0.......N/A......4-10-0
........0.333...1.000.....-.---.....0.000...-.---. ..0.000.....0.500....0.000.....1.000.......N/A......0.286
Obviously Ohio State fans hope that the overall trends don't continue this week.
There is a lot more information about both teams contained in this post, as well as the Additional Information section, for which there is a link at the bottom of this page, so keep reading and enjoy the game.
Date: Monday, January 5, 2009
Time: 8:20 ET Kick-off (6:20 local)
Location: University of Phoenix Stadium - (Glendale, AZ)
Constructed: 2006
Seating Capacity: 63,400 (expandable to 73,000)
Playing Surface: Bermuda hybrid grass, rolled out on a tray
Location: University of Phoenix Stadium - (Glendale, AZ)
Constructed: 2006
Seating Capacity: 63,400 (expandable to 73,000)
Playing Surface: Bermuda hybrid grass, rolled out on a tray
Events: Fiesta Bowl
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: Matt Vasgersian (Play-by-play), Tim Ryan(Color), Chris Meyers and Laura Okmin (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2008 Texas Longhorns Offensive PreviewBroadcast Information:
TV Broacast: Matt Vasgersian (Play-by-play), Tim Ryan(Color), Chris Meyers and Laura Okmin (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Returning starters: 6
Life is not fair. You finish in the top 10 in yards per game. You finish in the top 10 in points per game. Your QB leads the team in passing and rushing while completing almost 80% of his throws, but apparently doesn't send a tingle up the leg of media people like Gary Danielson, so he finished as the runner-up in the Heisman balloting, despite having every argument to win it and leading his team to victory over the winner on a neutral field. You have 2 receivers who almost get to 1000 yards apiece for the season. You lost your only game of the season, on the road, to a team with arguably the most explosive offense in the nation (oh, and you beat the other one on a neutral field), who arguably played one of their best games defensively in program history, on the last play from scrimmage, with 1 second left. You beat not one, but BOTH of the teams that played in your conference title game, and you already beat one of the teams in the national title game. Sadly, you won't get a chance to play the other. Such is the life of a Texas Longhorn in 2008, and one would imagine they are none too pleased about it. So, the reward for their campaign is a rubber match with the Buckeyes on a neutral field, after the visitors split the previous 2 meetings. The last came when Colt McCoy was but a freshman, following the Lone Star legend that was Vince Young. Now, he is a legend himself, there is an arsenal of weapons, a monster offensive line, and one would imagine there is a collective chip on the Longhorn shoulders entering the Fiesta Bowl.
Texas finished 9th nationally in yards per game with 476.4 per contest. Amazingly, that was only good for 5th in the Big XII. The Longhorns were 11th nationally in passing offense (299.5 YPG) and a respectable 35th in rushing (176.9 YPG), which is quite an accomplishment since McCoy led the team in both categories. They piled up the points as well, ranking 5th in the nation at 43.9 PPG. They moved the chains with ease (26.6 1st downs per game, 5th), and perhaps most impressively finished 2nd nationally in 3rd down conversion percentage at 53.2%. So when the Buckeyes get Texas to 3rd down, they had better make it count, and this might be one of the biggest keys to the game. No doubt about it, Texas has one of college football's best traditions, and is one of the nation's finest teams. The Buckeyes did not get a taste of a 3rd straight national title game, but the challenge will be just as great, if not greater, in 2008.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Colt McCoy (6-3, 210, JR, Jim Ned HS, Tuscola, TX)
It has been the Colt McCoy show is Austin this season, and the Heisman finalist certainly did not disappoint, showing the combination of skill, grit, and toughness that Texans love. He was not only the leader of one of the most potent aerial attacks in the nation, he was also the leading rusher for the Longhorns in 2008 with 576 yards, and 2nd on the team in rushing TDs with 10. His 32/7 TD/INT ratio is stellar, and his completion percentage over 375 attempts (77.6%) is completely ridiculous (in a good way). Clearly, in leading his team to wins over both teams that played in the Big XII championship game and possibly the national champion, McCoy deserves all the accolades he has gotten, and perhaps a trophy or two he didn't.
McCoy was fast right out of the gate against the Owls of Florida Atlantic, as he completed over 80% of his throws for 222 yards and 3 TDs, and also ran for 103 yards and a score. Though he only gained 8 yards on the ground the following week against UTEP, he buried the Miners by throwing for 282 yards and 4 TDs, to just one pick, making it look as if something special was brewing in Austin in 2008. Those thoughts were confirmed the following week, as he spent the next game cooking Rice for 60 minutes, to the tune of 329 yards and 4 TDs through the air, and 83 yards and a TD on the ground. He then turned the Arkansas game into a pig roast by torching the Razorbacks for 185 yards and 3 TDs on 89.5% completions, along with 84 yards and 2 TDs on the ground in just 9 carries. Conference play opened with a decent performance against Colorado, throwing for 262 yards and 2 TDs to stymie the Buffaloes, though he threw 2 picks and gained only 39 yards on the ground, perhaps raising some questions in some minds about how he would perform against Sam Bradford and the mighty Sooners the following game in the annual rivalry between the two schools. As it turned out, the Longhorns filled the Sooner defense full of holes in the Red River shootout, as McCoy threw for 277 yards (80% completions) and a TD en route to a monumental victory for the program and a signature win for 2008. Any thoughts of a letdown subsided quickly the following game as McCoy annihilated Missouri, declawing the Tigers by completing an insane 91% of his passes for 337 yards and 2 TDs, and adding 2 more scores on the ground for good measure. Amazingly, this turned out to arguably not even be his best game, as he lassoed the Cowboys secondary the following week to the tune of 391 yards and 2 TDs, chipping in 41 yards and a score on the ground as well. This set the stage for the now famous (and infamous) Longhorn/Red Raider showdown. McCoy performed admirably in the game, taking several punishing hits and still managing to throw for 294 yards and 2 TDs (despite his season low 58.8% completion percentage) and leading his team down the field to take a late lead, only to watch the Raiders steal the game, and what would eventually be Longhorn BCS championship hopes, on the last play of the game with a single tick left on the clock. Despite the heartbreak, the mark of a true gridiron warrior is bouncing back the next game after a crushing defeat, and McCoy did so with gusto, throwing for 300 yards and 5 TDs against Baylor as he left the Bear defense wishing Mike Singletary was still playing (as in now, at his age). In the final 2 games, McCoy continued to be brilliant, as he Rocked, Chalked, and Jayhawked Kansas to the tune of 255 yards and 2 TDs through the air and 78 yards and a TD on the ground, and finished the season with a flourish by putting the Aggies out to pasture with 311 yards and 2 passing TDs, with 49 yards on the ground and 2 rushing TDs. All told, he led the Longhorns to 11 wins, accounted for 42 TDs, completed less than 70% of his passes just twice (once was 69% versus UTEP), threw for over 300 yards 5 times, threw for at least 2 TDs 11 times, scored on the ground in 7 different games, and won both of the major rivalry games with outstanding performances. Even in defeat, he took a pounding and still led a potential game-winning drive. If that is not a top flight season, then Sammy Baugh or Otto Graham must still be playing, because 2008 was everything Texas could have ever hoped for at the QB position and infinitely more.
QB Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State QBs
McCoy (P/R): 291/375 (77.6%), 3445 yards, 32 TDs, 7 INTs, 179.2 rating; 128/576 yards, 10 TDs, 4.5 YPC
Pryor (P/R): 95/152 (62.5%), 1245 yards, 12 TDs, 4 INTs, 152.1 rating; 124/553 yards, 6 TDs, 4.5 YPC
Clearly there is no fair comparison here. McCoy was at the top of his game, shining brightly in the Texas sunlight week after week. Pryor for his part is young, sometimes unpolished, learning the game, making good progress, and is capable of making some big plays. In 2 or 3 years, we may see Pryor with a season like McCoy had this year, which was one of the best for a QB in recent memory. The Buckeyes have more depth, as Boeckman has more experience and has played in plenty of big games, and rumor has it will be part of the gameplan in this his final contest in a Buckeye uniform. For his part, all John Chiles did for Texas when he went in was complete 11 of 13 for 231 yards and 2 TDs, for a 84.6% completion percentage and a slightly higher than average 231.67 QB rating (sarcasm). Clearly Pryor has bright and successful days ahead of him, but McCoy puts the star on the flag in this game.
Edge: Texas
Running Backs
RB #2 Vondrell McGee (5-10, 205, SO, Longview HS, Longview, TX)
RB #3 Chris Ogbonnaya (6-1, 215, SR, Strake Jesuit HS, Missouri City, TX)
RB #28 Fozzy Whittaker (5-10, 190, FR, Pearland HS, Houston, TX)
FB #31 Cody Johnson (5-11, 255, FR, Waller HS, Waller, TX)
The Longhorn running attack is an interesting one, as several players seem to fill specific roles and the QB led the team in rushing yardage. McGee was 2nd on the team in yardage and carries, though he had only 88 touches in the backfield. He had double-digit carries in 3 games, the opener against the Owls when he had 12, the Arkansas game where he had 16, and against Baylor, when he had 10. His highlights include the Florida Atlantic game, where he had 63 yards and a score, the Missouri game, where he gained 58 yards on just 6 carries, and scoring TDs against Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, and Kansas in conference play. He is a solid runner who is not as much of a threat out of the backfield, catching only 9 passes on the year.
The veteran Ogbonnaya, on the other hand, was a much bigger threat out of the backfield than running from it. Though he averaged over 5 yards a carry and scored 4 TDs on the ground, he was especially deadly on the receiving end of McCoy passes, ranking 3rd on the team in receptions (42), yards (484), and TDs (3). He was sporadically involved in the offense the first few weeks, though he did have 58 receiving yards and a TD against Rice, but his real value came during conference play. He opened by gaining 71 yards and scoring a TD on the ground and catching a TD against Colorado, and then was a critical factor in the Oklahoma win, gaining 127 yards on 15 carries and catching 4 passes. He followed that with a great game against Missouri, gaining 65 yards and scoring a pair of TDs on the ground, and chipping in 6 catches for 68 yards. He caught 7 passes for 73 yards the following week against Oklahoma State, and then his production tapered off, amassing only 18 total touches and one TD the final 4 games. He has good size and knows the offense very well, and has been a significant contributor in this his final season.
The youngster Whittaker has flashed some brilliance this year, and has left a good mark as people look for brighter days ahead. He gained 72 yards on 12 carries in the UTEP game, then did not get a touch until the Missouri game, when he had 2 carries for 20 yards. It was in the final month when he made his true mark for the Longhorns, including gaining 42 yards against Texas Tech and 77 against Baylor. He had 44 carries and 10 catches in the final month of the season, and though his yardage totals do not jump off of the stat sheet and he did not find the end zone in the regular season, he is clearly emerging as a weapon for the Longhorns as they work him into the offense.
Johnson is a young mauler who looks to be a bit of a throwback to the days when the fullback dominated the offense, at least around the goal line. He has a large frame and often bashes straight ahead, piling up short yardage TDs along the way, reminding Buckeye faithful perhaps of a Pete Johnson-type. He opened the season by scoring in 7 straight games, including twice against Colorado and 3 times on 3 carries against Oklahoma. He capped the season off in fine form, gaining 102 yards and scoring a pair of TDs against the Aggies on only 8 carries. Depending on the situation, he can be primarily a blocker, a short yardage back, or a regular contributor to the ground attack. Surprisingly for a fullback involved that much in the offense, he did not have a single catch. One thing is for sure though, he gives the Buckeye defense another dimension to think about, and his size and skill in short yardage situations can also set up the deadly play action pass or QB bootleg.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State RBs
McGee: 88/376 yards, 4 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 9 rec/49 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Johnson: 73/336 yards, 12 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Ogbonnaya: 63/331 yards, 4 TDs, 5.3 YPC; 42 rec/484 yards, 3 TDs, 11.5 YPR
Whittaker: 58/261 yards, 0 TDs, 4.5 YPC; 10 rec/51 yards, 0 TDs, 5.1 YPR
C Wells: 191/1091 yards, 8 TDs, 5.7 YPC; 7 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 3.7 YPR
Herron: 84/409 yards, 5 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 6 rec/29 yards, 0 TDs, 4.8 YPR
M Wells: 38/131 yards, 0 TDs, 3.4 YPC; 6 rec/42 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Saine: 26/65 yards, 1 TD, 2.5 YPC; 3 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
While the Longhorns do not have a single dominant player like the Buckeyes do, they have several players who fulfill their roles well and contribute significantly to the offense. Wells has dominated games against quality opposition throughout his career, and one would think he will have to do so again if the Buckeyes are going to have any chance in the Fiesta Bowl. For depth, Herron offers a nice second option for the Buckeyes, and they can also turn to Saine for an occasional change of pace. The Longhorns are deeper and more role-specific, but the ability and track record of Wells gives the Buckeyes the edge here. Whittaker and Johnson could be really, really good before all is said and done, but Wells gives the Buckeyes the edge for this game, assuming he has one big performance left in the holster.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
FL-Z #8 Jordan Shipley (6-0, 190, SR, Burnet HS, Burnet, TX)
SE-X #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, SR, Mart HS, Mart, TX)
SL-B #9 Malcolm Williams (6-3, 218, FR, Garland HS, Garland, TX)
WR #5 Brandon Collins (6-0, 170, SO, Brenham HS, Brenham, TX)
WR #11 James Kirkendoll (5-11, 175, SO, Round Rock HS, Round Rock, TX)
Cosby came into the 2008 season having amassed 60 catches in 2007, so big things were expected of him this season. Shipley had been less involved, catching a total of 43 passes over the past 2 seasons. However, they have made a mighty tandem this season, and a good deal of Colt McCoy's success in the passing game can be attributed to these two outstanding receivers. Mix in a dose of youthful enthusiasm in the 3 players below them on the depth chart, and the Longhorns have one of the better units in the nation.
Cosby was a steady contributor all season, catching at least 70 yards worth of passes in 10 of 12 games, en route to 78 catches for 952 yards and 8 TDs. His 8 TDs were also spread across 7 games, making him a regular contributor to the scoring. He started the season slowly, catching 3 passes for 34 yards against Florida Atlantic, but then followed that effort with an 8 catch, 154 yard effort (with a TD) against UTEP. He caught 7 passes for 90 yards the following week against Rice, and then finished nonconference play with 5 catches for 67 yards and a TD against the hated Razorbacks. He opened conference play with a 9 catch, 71 yard effort against Colorado, and had 9 catches for 122 yards in the shootout win over Oklahoma. He then hit Missouri for 7 catches and 74 yards, and followed that with 8 catches for 76 yards and a TD against Oklahoma State. He was completely shut down in the loss to Texas Tech, however, catching only 2 passes for 3 yards. He bounced back with a stellar effort against Baylor, catching 8 passes for 111 yards and 2 TDs, his only multi-score game of the season. He finished the season with 6 catches for 70 yards and a TD against Kansas and 6 catches for 80 yards and a TD against Texas A&M. From this, it is obvious that not only is Cosby a great player, but he is an integral part of the offense.
Shipley was every bit as good as Cosby, catching 79 balls for 982 yards and 11 TDs, all team highs. His contributions were a bit more sporadic, in the sense he had a few huge games and a few quieter games. He started the year with 4 catches for 53 yards and a score in the opener, and then followed that with 3 catches for 30 yards and a TD against UTEP. After that modest start, he then promptly steamed Rice, gaining 155 yards on just 5 catches and scoring 2 TDs. Against the Razorbacks he had 8 catches for 83 yards and a TD, closing nonconference play on a high note. Big XII play started for him with a modest game against Colorado (4 catches, 47 yards, TD), which he then followed with a monster effort in the win over the Sooners (11 catches, 112 yards, TD). So is he the type of player that plays his best against the best competition? Well, considering he followed the Oklahoma game with 8 catches for 89 yards and a TD against Missouri and then was completely unstoppable against highly regarded Oklahoma State, catching 15 passes for 168 yards and a TD, the answer certainly appears to be yes. He, like the rest of the offense, struggled in Lubbock, however, catching just 6 passes for 42 yards. He followed this with solid games against Baylor (6 catches, 81 yards, TD), Kansas (5 catches, 37 yards) and the Aggies (4 catches, 85 yards) to close the season. Clearly he is an explosive player who can take over a game at any time, and he played most of his best football against the best teams on the schedule, a testament to his quality and mettle.
Behind the 2 experienced seniors, Williams is a big target and has emerged as a threat. He, unlike his 2 more experienced counterparts, had a huge game against Texas Tech, catching 4 passes for 182 yards and 2 TDs. His contributions were more sporadic throughout the rest of the campaign, but clearly his downfield playmaking ability and explosiveness can not be discounted by the Buckeyes. Collins has also been a regular contributor, adding quality depth. His highlights include 6 catches for 76 yards against Missouri and 6 catches for 103 yards and a TD against A&M. He has TD receptions in his last 3 games, so he is yet another bullet in the chamber of Colt?s revolver that the Buckeyes will have to deal with. Kirkendoll made at least one catch in 9 games, so he is also involved in the Longhorn attack on occasion.
WR Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State WRs
Shipley: 79 catches, 982 yards, 11 TDs, 12.4 YPR
Cosby: 78 catches, 952 yards, 8 TDs, 12.2 YPR
Collins: 28 catches, 370 yards, 3 TDs, 13.2 YPR
Williams: 17 catches, 304 yards, 3 TDs, 17.9 YPR
Kirkendoll: 16 catches, 180 yards, 1 TD, 11.3 YPR
Robiskie: 37 catches, 419 yards, 8 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Hartline: 21 catches, 479 yards, 4 TDs, 22.8 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 21 catches, 272 yards, 1 TD, 13.0 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 149 yards, 0 TDs, 8.3 YPR
Hard to find fault with this unit for the Longhorns, as they have some of everything one wants: senior leadership, big plays, consistent contributions, youthful enthusiasm, depth, and quality. Shipley and Cosby make a highly effective tandem, and if those 2 are somehow covered, Williams can still burn it deep. Collins adds yet another weapon and provides a spark off the bench. The Buckeyes have veteran players and emerging superstars themselves, and Robiskie and Hartline have played well in a lot of big games for the Buckeyes. Still, there is no arguing the quality or production of the Longhorns, and their depth makes them an especially dangerous group.
Edge: Texas
Tight Ends
TE-Y #83 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, SO, Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
TE#86 Peter Ullman (6-4, 260, SR, Round Rock HS, Austin, TX)
Smith is a battering ram who has the body of an interior lineman. He has 2 catches for 4 yards and a TD, but earns his scholarship mauling defensemen. The same goes for the veteran Ullman, who is also a road grader with 2 catches on the season.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State TEs
Smith: 2 catches, 4 yards, 1 TD, 2.0 YPR
Ullman: 2 catches, 10 yards, 0 TDs, 5.0 YPR
Nicol: 6 catches, 60 yards, 2 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ballard: 4 catches, 52 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
Neither team has players at this position that will light up the scoreboard, though Nicol can make the occasional big catch. Blocking rules the day here, and both teams do it very effectively from this position.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #74 Adam Ulatoski (6-8, 302, JR, Carroll HS, Southlake, TX)
LG #52 Charlie Tanner (6-4, 305, JR, Anderson HS, Austin, TX)
C #78 David Snow (6-4, 300, FR, Gilmer HS, Gilmer, TX)
RG #55 Cedric Dockery (6-4, 315, SR, Lakeview Centennial HS, Garland, TX)
RT #64 Kyle Hix (6-7, 320, SO, Aledo HS, Aledo, TX)
OG #63 Michael Huey (6-5, 315, SO, Kilgore HS, Kilgore, TX)
OL #53 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, SO, Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
Looking at the size of this line alone, it is easy to see why the offense was so successful. The amazing thing is there is only one senior in the bunch. Dockery, the one senior, came into the 2008 season with 17 career starts, including 11 last season and 6 as a sophomore before sustaining a season-ending injury. He was honorable mention all-Big XII in 2007 and played outstanding football in 2008. He is a prototypical mauler on the interior, with good size and good footwork to be able to pull and pass protect with equal ferocity. On the other side at guard, Tanner started 9 games at left guard last season and manned the position admirably this year. He is similar in size and stature to Dockery, giving the Longhorns two effective interior linemen. In the middle, Snow is a highly touted youngster who took over the job in his first season. At the tackle spots, Ulatoski had played right tackle the past 2 seasons, starting a total of 17 games, before moving to the left side this season. He was honorable mention all-Big XII last season. On the right side, Hix started one game last year at RT, and took over for Ulatoski in 2008.
Huey is the top backup in the interior of the line. He is a tall monster who played in all 13 games last season and is versatile enough to play anywhere across the interior. Smith is the primary backup at tackle, after being a center last season and also manning the blocking TE role during his career already. He seems to have found a home at the tackle spot and could be a future starter.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State OL
It is hard to argue with the results that the Texas offense has achieved in 2008, and, to use an old cliche, "everything starts up front". This line is tall, powerful, versatile, and has solid fundamentals. They give McCoy a lot of time to throw, and are equally adept at slamming open holes for the backs or adjusting when McCoy decides to take off and run. Given the struggles of the Buckeye line for most of the season, the clear edge here goes to the Longhorns.
Edge: Texas
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Longhorns are better than any offense Ohio State contended with in 2008, and are clearly one of the best in the nation. They can move the ball seemingly at will for significant stretches, and they convert a very high percentage of 3rd downs, tiring and demoralizing even the toughest of defenses. Everything goes through McCoy, by land and by air, so the Buckeyes will have to key on him and try to find ways to slow him down. Maybe they can take his running away, forcing him to throw more than he wants and preventing a few of those excruciating 3rd down conversions QBs get when they scramble. Maybe they can take one of the receivers out of the game, limiting the options McCoy has if they can pressure him some. Clearly Texas Tech limited (somewhat) his effectiveness by getting pressure on him and bashing him around some, though he was tough enough to take it, bounce back, and lead a potential game-winning drive anyway. Still, it appears to be the best chance the Buckeyes have at slowing down this potent offense, because if he has time, he will find someone downfield, or take off and tear up the turf on the ground. One could argue McCoy is Vince Young, except he doesn't run quite as much, throws better, and has more help. In any case, the Buckeyes will have their work cut out for them, as they will need to wake some echoes from 2002 to pull off a big win against a highly, highly potent offense.
Overall Offensive Rating: A
2008 Texas Longhorns Defensive PreviewTexas finished 9th nationally in yards per game with 476.4 per contest. Amazingly, that was only good for 5th in the Big XII. The Longhorns were 11th nationally in passing offense (299.5 YPG) and a respectable 35th in rushing (176.9 YPG), which is quite an accomplishment since McCoy led the team in both categories. They piled up the points as well, ranking 5th in the nation at 43.9 PPG. They moved the chains with ease (26.6 1st downs per game, 5th), and perhaps most impressively finished 2nd nationally in 3rd down conversion percentage at 53.2%. So when the Buckeyes get Texas to 3rd down, they had better make it count, and this might be one of the biggest keys to the game. No doubt about it, Texas has one of college football's best traditions, and is one of the nation's finest teams. The Buckeyes did not get a taste of a 3rd straight national title game, but the challenge will be just as great, if not greater, in 2008.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Colt McCoy (6-3, 210, JR, Jim Ned HS, Tuscola, TX)
It has been the Colt McCoy show is Austin this season, and the Heisman finalist certainly did not disappoint, showing the combination of skill, grit, and toughness that Texans love. He was not only the leader of one of the most potent aerial attacks in the nation, he was also the leading rusher for the Longhorns in 2008 with 576 yards, and 2nd on the team in rushing TDs with 10. His 32/7 TD/INT ratio is stellar, and his completion percentage over 375 attempts (77.6%) is completely ridiculous (in a good way). Clearly, in leading his team to wins over both teams that played in the Big XII championship game and possibly the national champion, McCoy deserves all the accolades he has gotten, and perhaps a trophy or two he didn't.
McCoy was fast right out of the gate against the Owls of Florida Atlantic, as he completed over 80% of his throws for 222 yards and 3 TDs, and also ran for 103 yards and a score. Though he only gained 8 yards on the ground the following week against UTEP, he buried the Miners by throwing for 282 yards and 4 TDs, to just one pick, making it look as if something special was brewing in Austin in 2008. Those thoughts were confirmed the following week, as he spent the next game cooking Rice for 60 minutes, to the tune of 329 yards and 4 TDs through the air, and 83 yards and a TD on the ground. He then turned the Arkansas game into a pig roast by torching the Razorbacks for 185 yards and 3 TDs on 89.5% completions, along with 84 yards and 2 TDs on the ground in just 9 carries. Conference play opened with a decent performance against Colorado, throwing for 262 yards and 2 TDs to stymie the Buffaloes, though he threw 2 picks and gained only 39 yards on the ground, perhaps raising some questions in some minds about how he would perform against Sam Bradford and the mighty Sooners the following game in the annual rivalry between the two schools. As it turned out, the Longhorns filled the Sooner defense full of holes in the Red River shootout, as McCoy threw for 277 yards (80% completions) and a TD en route to a monumental victory for the program and a signature win for 2008. Any thoughts of a letdown subsided quickly the following game as McCoy annihilated Missouri, declawing the Tigers by completing an insane 91% of his passes for 337 yards and 2 TDs, and adding 2 more scores on the ground for good measure. Amazingly, this turned out to arguably not even be his best game, as he lassoed the Cowboys secondary the following week to the tune of 391 yards and 2 TDs, chipping in 41 yards and a score on the ground as well. This set the stage for the now famous (and infamous) Longhorn/Red Raider showdown. McCoy performed admirably in the game, taking several punishing hits and still managing to throw for 294 yards and 2 TDs (despite his season low 58.8% completion percentage) and leading his team down the field to take a late lead, only to watch the Raiders steal the game, and what would eventually be Longhorn BCS championship hopes, on the last play of the game with a single tick left on the clock. Despite the heartbreak, the mark of a true gridiron warrior is bouncing back the next game after a crushing defeat, and McCoy did so with gusto, throwing for 300 yards and 5 TDs against Baylor as he left the Bear defense wishing Mike Singletary was still playing (as in now, at his age). In the final 2 games, McCoy continued to be brilliant, as he Rocked, Chalked, and Jayhawked Kansas to the tune of 255 yards and 2 TDs through the air and 78 yards and a TD on the ground, and finished the season with a flourish by putting the Aggies out to pasture with 311 yards and 2 passing TDs, with 49 yards on the ground and 2 rushing TDs. All told, he led the Longhorns to 11 wins, accounted for 42 TDs, completed less than 70% of his passes just twice (once was 69% versus UTEP), threw for over 300 yards 5 times, threw for at least 2 TDs 11 times, scored on the ground in 7 different games, and won both of the major rivalry games with outstanding performances. Even in defeat, he took a pounding and still led a potential game-winning drive. If that is not a top flight season, then Sammy Baugh or Otto Graham must still be playing, because 2008 was everything Texas could have ever hoped for at the QB position and infinitely more.
QB Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State QBs
McCoy (P/R): 291/375 (77.6%), 3445 yards, 32 TDs, 7 INTs, 179.2 rating; 128/576 yards, 10 TDs, 4.5 YPC
Pryor (P/R): 95/152 (62.5%), 1245 yards, 12 TDs, 4 INTs, 152.1 rating; 124/553 yards, 6 TDs, 4.5 YPC
Clearly there is no fair comparison here. McCoy was at the top of his game, shining brightly in the Texas sunlight week after week. Pryor for his part is young, sometimes unpolished, learning the game, making good progress, and is capable of making some big plays. In 2 or 3 years, we may see Pryor with a season like McCoy had this year, which was one of the best for a QB in recent memory. The Buckeyes have more depth, as Boeckman has more experience and has played in plenty of big games, and rumor has it will be part of the gameplan in this his final contest in a Buckeye uniform. For his part, all John Chiles did for Texas when he went in was complete 11 of 13 for 231 yards and 2 TDs, for a 84.6% completion percentage and a slightly higher than average 231.67 QB rating (sarcasm). Clearly Pryor has bright and successful days ahead of him, but McCoy puts the star on the flag in this game.
Edge: Texas
Running Backs
RB #2 Vondrell McGee (5-10, 205, SO, Longview HS, Longview, TX)
RB #3 Chris Ogbonnaya (6-1, 215, SR, Strake Jesuit HS, Missouri City, TX)
RB #28 Fozzy Whittaker (5-10, 190, FR, Pearland HS, Houston, TX)
FB #31 Cody Johnson (5-11, 255, FR, Waller HS, Waller, TX)
The Longhorn running attack is an interesting one, as several players seem to fill specific roles and the QB led the team in rushing yardage. McGee was 2nd on the team in yardage and carries, though he had only 88 touches in the backfield. He had double-digit carries in 3 games, the opener against the Owls when he had 12, the Arkansas game where he had 16, and against Baylor, when he had 10. His highlights include the Florida Atlantic game, where he had 63 yards and a score, the Missouri game, where he gained 58 yards on just 6 carries, and scoring TDs against Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, and Kansas in conference play. He is a solid runner who is not as much of a threat out of the backfield, catching only 9 passes on the year.
The veteran Ogbonnaya, on the other hand, was a much bigger threat out of the backfield than running from it. Though he averaged over 5 yards a carry and scored 4 TDs on the ground, he was especially deadly on the receiving end of McCoy passes, ranking 3rd on the team in receptions (42), yards (484), and TDs (3). He was sporadically involved in the offense the first few weeks, though he did have 58 receiving yards and a TD against Rice, but his real value came during conference play. He opened by gaining 71 yards and scoring a TD on the ground and catching a TD against Colorado, and then was a critical factor in the Oklahoma win, gaining 127 yards on 15 carries and catching 4 passes. He followed that with a great game against Missouri, gaining 65 yards and scoring a pair of TDs on the ground, and chipping in 6 catches for 68 yards. He caught 7 passes for 73 yards the following week against Oklahoma State, and then his production tapered off, amassing only 18 total touches and one TD the final 4 games. He has good size and knows the offense very well, and has been a significant contributor in this his final season.
The youngster Whittaker has flashed some brilliance this year, and has left a good mark as people look for brighter days ahead. He gained 72 yards on 12 carries in the UTEP game, then did not get a touch until the Missouri game, when he had 2 carries for 20 yards. It was in the final month when he made his true mark for the Longhorns, including gaining 42 yards against Texas Tech and 77 against Baylor. He had 44 carries and 10 catches in the final month of the season, and though his yardage totals do not jump off of the stat sheet and he did not find the end zone in the regular season, he is clearly emerging as a weapon for the Longhorns as they work him into the offense.
Johnson is a young mauler who looks to be a bit of a throwback to the days when the fullback dominated the offense, at least around the goal line. He has a large frame and often bashes straight ahead, piling up short yardage TDs along the way, reminding Buckeye faithful perhaps of a Pete Johnson-type. He opened the season by scoring in 7 straight games, including twice against Colorado and 3 times on 3 carries against Oklahoma. He capped the season off in fine form, gaining 102 yards and scoring a pair of TDs against the Aggies on only 8 carries. Depending on the situation, he can be primarily a blocker, a short yardage back, or a regular contributor to the ground attack. Surprisingly for a fullback involved that much in the offense, he did not have a single catch. One thing is for sure though, he gives the Buckeye defense another dimension to think about, and his size and skill in short yardage situations can also set up the deadly play action pass or QB bootleg.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State RBs
McGee: 88/376 yards, 4 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 9 rec/49 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Johnson: 73/336 yards, 12 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Ogbonnaya: 63/331 yards, 4 TDs, 5.3 YPC; 42 rec/484 yards, 3 TDs, 11.5 YPR
Whittaker: 58/261 yards, 0 TDs, 4.5 YPC; 10 rec/51 yards, 0 TDs, 5.1 YPR
C Wells: 191/1091 yards, 8 TDs, 5.7 YPC; 7 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 3.7 YPR
Herron: 84/409 yards, 5 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 6 rec/29 yards, 0 TDs, 4.8 YPR
M Wells: 38/131 yards, 0 TDs, 3.4 YPC; 6 rec/42 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Saine: 26/65 yards, 1 TD, 2.5 YPC; 3 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
While the Longhorns do not have a single dominant player like the Buckeyes do, they have several players who fulfill their roles well and contribute significantly to the offense. Wells has dominated games against quality opposition throughout his career, and one would think he will have to do so again if the Buckeyes are going to have any chance in the Fiesta Bowl. For depth, Herron offers a nice second option for the Buckeyes, and they can also turn to Saine for an occasional change of pace. The Longhorns are deeper and more role-specific, but the ability and track record of Wells gives the Buckeyes the edge here. Whittaker and Johnson could be really, really good before all is said and done, but Wells gives the Buckeyes the edge for this game, assuming he has one big performance left in the holster.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
FL-Z #8 Jordan Shipley (6-0, 190, SR, Burnet HS, Burnet, TX)
SE-X #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, SR, Mart HS, Mart, TX)
SL-B #9 Malcolm Williams (6-3, 218, FR, Garland HS, Garland, TX)
WR #5 Brandon Collins (6-0, 170, SO, Brenham HS, Brenham, TX)
WR #11 James Kirkendoll (5-11, 175, SO, Round Rock HS, Round Rock, TX)
Cosby came into the 2008 season having amassed 60 catches in 2007, so big things were expected of him this season. Shipley had been less involved, catching a total of 43 passes over the past 2 seasons. However, they have made a mighty tandem this season, and a good deal of Colt McCoy's success in the passing game can be attributed to these two outstanding receivers. Mix in a dose of youthful enthusiasm in the 3 players below them on the depth chart, and the Longhorns have one of the better units in the nation.
Cosby was a steady contributor all season, catching at least 70 yards worth of passes in 10 of 12 games, en route to 78 catches for 952 yards and 8 TDs. His 8 TDs were also spread across 7 games, making him a regular contributor to the scoring. He started the season slowly, catching 3 passes for 34 yards against Florida Atlantic, but then followed that effort with an 8 catch, 154 yard effort (with a TD) against UTEP. He caught 7 passes for 90 yards the following week against Rice, and then finished nonconference play with 5 catches for 67 yards and a TD against the hated Razorbacks. He opened conference play with a 9 catch, 71 yard effort against Colorado, and had 9 catches for 122 yards in the shootout win over Oklahoma. He then hit Missouri for 7 catches and 74 yards, and followed that with 8 catches for 76 yards and a TD against Oklahoma State. He was completely shut down in the loss to Texas Tech, however, catching only 2 passes for 3 yards. He bounced back with a stellar effort against Baylor, catching 8 passes for 111 yards and 2 TDs, his only multi-score game of the season. He finished the season with 6 catches for 70 yards and a TD against Kansas and 6 catches for 80 yards and a TD against Texas A&M. From this, it is obvious that not only is Cosby a great player, but he is an integral part of the offense.
Shipley was every bit as good as Cosby, catching 79 balls for 982 yards and 11 TDs, all team highs. His contributions were a bit more sporadic, in the sense he had a few huge games and a few quieter games. He started the year with 4 catches for 53 yards and a score in the opener, and then followed that with 3 catches for 30 yards and a TD against UTEP. After that modest start, he then promptly steamed Rice, gaining 155 yards on just 5 catches and scoring 2 TDs. Against the Razorbacks he had 8 catches for 83 yards and a TD, closing nonconference play on a high note. Big XII play started for him with a modest game against Colorado (4 catches, 47 yards, TD), which he then followed with a monster effort in the win over the Sooners (11 catches, 112 yards, TD). So is he the type of player that plays his best against the best competition? Well, considering he followed the Oklahoma game with 8 catches for 89 yards and a TD against Missouri and then was completely unstoppable against highly regarded Oklahoma State, catching 15 passes for 168 yards and a TD, the answer certainly appears to be yes. He, like the rest of the offense, struggled in Lubbock, however, catching just 6 passes for 42 yards. He followed this with solid games against Baylor (6 catches, 81 yards, TD), Kansas (5 catches, 37 yards) and the Aggies (4 catches, 85 yards) to close the season. Clearly he is an explosive player who can take over a game at any time, and he played most of his best football against the best teams on the schedule, a testament to his quality and mettle.
Behind the 2 experienced seniors, Williams is a big target and has emerged as a threat. He, unlike his 2 more experienced counterparts, had a huge game against Texas Tech, catching 4 passes for 182 yards and 2 TDs. His contributions were more sporadic throughout the rest of the campaign, but clearly his downfield playmaking ability and explosiveness can not be discounted by the Buckeyes. Collins has also been a regular contributor, adding quality depth. His highlights include 6 catches for 76 yards against Missouri and 6 catches for 103 yards and a TD against A&M. He has TD receptions in his last 3 games, so he is yet another bullet in the chamber of Colt?s revolver that the Buckeyes will have to deal with. Kirkendoll made at least one catch in 9 games, so he is also involved in the Longhorn attack on occasion.
WR Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State WRs
Shipley: 79 catches, 982 yards, 11 TDs, 12.4 YPR
Cosby: 78 catches, 952 yards, 8 TDs, 12.2 YPR
Collins: 28 catches, 370 yards, 3 TDs, 13.2 YPR
Williams: 17 catches, 304 yards, 3 TDs, 17.9 YPR
Kirkendoll: 16 catches, 180 yards, 1 TD, 11.3 YPR
Robiskie: 37 catches, 419 yards, 8 TDs, 11.3 YPR
Hartline: 21 catches, 479 yards, 4 TDs, 22.8 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 21 catches, 272 yards, 1 TD, 13.0 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 149 yards, 0 TDs, 8.3 YPR
Hard to find fault with this unit for the Longhorns, as they have some of everything one wants: senior leadership, big plays, consistent contributions, youthful enthusiasm, depth, and quality. Shipley and Cosby make a highly effective tandem, and if those 2 are somehow covered, Williams can still burn it deep. Collins adds yet another weapon and provides a spark off the bench. The Buckeyes have veteran players and emerging superstars themselves, and Robiskie and Hartline have played well in a lot of big games for the Buckeyes. Still, there is no arguing the quality or production of the Longhorns, and their depth makes them an especially dangerous group.
Edge: Texas
Tight Ends
TE-Y #83 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, SO, Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
TE#86 Peter Ullman (6-4, 260, SR, Round Rock HS, Austin, TX)
Smith is a battering ram who has the body of an interior lineman. He has 2 catches for 4 yards and a TD, but earns his scholarship mauling defensemen. The same goes for the veteran Ullman, who is also a road grader with 2 catches on the season.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State TEs
Smith: 2 catches, 4 yards, 1 TD, 2.0 YPR
Ullman: 2 catches, 10 yards, 0 TDs, 5.0 YPR
Nicol: 6 catches, 60 yards, 2 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ballard: 4 catches, 52 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
Neither team has players at this position that will light up the scoreboard, though Nicol can make the occasional big catch. Blocking rules the day here, and both teams do it very effectively from this position.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #74 Adam Ulatoski (6-8, 302, JR, Carroll HS, Southlake, TX)
LG #52 Charlie Tanner (6-4, 305, JR, Anderson HS, Austin, TX)
C #78 David Snow (6-4, 300, FR, Gilmer HS, Gilmer, TX)
RG #55 Cedric Dockery (6-4, 315, SR, Lakeview Centennial HS, Garland, TX)
RT #64 Kyle Hix (6-7, 320, SO, Aledo HS, Aledo, TX)
OG #63 Michael Huey (6-5, 315, SO, Kilgore HS, Kilgore, TX)
OL #53 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, SO, Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
Looking at the size of this line alone, it is easy to see why the offense was so successful. The amazing thing is there is only one senior in the bunch. Dockery, the one senior, came into the 2008 season with 17 career starts, including 11 last season and 6 as a sophomore before sustaining a season-ending injury. He was honorable mention all-Big XII in 2007 and played outstanding football in 2008. He is a prototypical mauler on the interior, with good size and good footwork to be able to pull and pass protect with equal ferocity. On the other side at guard, Tanner started 9 games at left guard last season and manned the position admirably this year. He is similar in size and stature to Dockery, giving the Longhorns two effective interior linemen. In the middle, Snow is a highly touted youngster who took over the job in his first season. At the tackle spots, Ulatoski had played right tackle the past 2 seasons, starting a total of 17 games, before moving to the left side this season. He was honorable mention all-Big XII last season. On the right side, Hix started one game last year at RT, and took over for Ulatoski in 2008.
Huey is the top backup in the interior of the line. He is a tall monster who played in all 13 games last season and is versatile enough to play anywhere across the interior. Smith is the primary backup at tackle, after being a center last season and also manning the blocking TE role during his career already. He seems to have found a home at the tackle spot and could be a future starter.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State OL
It is hard to argue with the results that the Texas offense has achieved in 2008, and, to use an old cliche, "everything starts up front". This line is tall, powerful, versatile, and has solid fundamentals. They give McCoy a lot of time to throw, and are equally adept at slamming open holes for the backs or adjusting when McCoy decides to take off and run. Given the struggles of the Buckeye line for most of the season, the clear edge here goes to the Longhorns.
Edge: Texas
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Longhorns are better than any offense Ohio State contended with in 2008, and are clearly one of the best in the nation. They can move the ball seemingly at will for significant stretches, and they convert a very high percentage of 3rd downs, tiring and demoralizing even the toughest of defenses. Everything goes through McCoy, by land and by air, so the Buckeyes will have to key on him and try to find ways to slow him down. Maybe they can take his running away, forcing him to throw more than he wants and preventing a few of those excruciating 3rd down conversions QBs get when they scramble. Maybe they can take one of the receivers out of the game, limiting the options McCoy has if they can pressure him some. Clearly Texas Tech limited (somewhat) his effectiveness by getting pressure on him and bashing him around some, though he was tough enough to take it, bounce back, and lead a potential game-winning drive anyway. Still, it appears to be the best chance the Buckeyes have at slowing down this potent offense, because if he has time, he will find someone downfield, or take off and tear up the turf on the ground. One could argue McCoy is Vince Young, except he doesn't run quite as much, throws better, and has more help. In any case, the Buckeyes will have their work cut out for them, as they will need to wake some echoes from 2002 to pull off a big win against a highly, highly potent offense.
Overall Offensive Rating: A
Returning Starters: 4
Hired in January 2008, Will Muschamp coordinates the Longhorn defense. Considered among the top assistants in the nation, Muschamp has already been named the successor of Mack Brown when Brown decides to hang it up. Consider that for a moment. Muschamp has been on staff less than a year, and is already tabbed to replace a man who may not retire for some 10 years (Brown is just 57 years old). It seems plain that Texas is quite pleased with what they have in Muschamp and are willing to try and tie him in for the long term. As illustrated in the following, however, while Muschamp has risen through the ranks quickly, he has never stayed in one place too long. Texas hopes to be the exception.
Muschamp, a walk-on, played Safety for the Georgia Bulldogs (1991-1994) earning 4 letters and serving as a co-captain his senior season. His coaching career began at Auburn in 1995 where he served as a graduate assistant through his graduation with a masters degree in 1996. From there, Muschamp coached the secondary at Division II West Georgia for a season before taking the same position at Division IAA Eastern Kentucky the following year and then, only one year after that, being named Defensive Coordinator at Division II Valdosta State where he helped turn the program around from a 4-7 club in to a 10-2 team. While Muschamp would leave for LSU in 2001, Valdosta State would go on to win 35 straight. At LSU, Muschamp coached the Linebackers for a season, before being elevated to Defensive Coordinator in 2002. He continued to serve as DC and Linebacker's coach through 2004, heading up some outstanding defenses and earning a National Title in 2003 with Nick Saban. Muschamp followed Saban to the NFL where he held the title of "Assistant Head Coach of the Defense" and lead a defense which was in the top 10 in such categories as yards per play, yards per rush, and yards per pass, while having the second best team in terms of sacks. Muschamp returned to the college game, however, after the 2005 season where he served as Auburn's Defensive Coordinator for the two seasons before coming to Texas. His Auburn teams held opponents to 20 points or fewer 21 times in 26 games and were consistently among the national leaders in several statistical categories. His first Texas team performed as follows (and as against Ohio State):
Stats......|Pts.|..Rush|..Pass|.Total|Yds/Play|.INT...|.Fum..|.Sack..|.3rd D.|.pct|.1st D|.TD-R|.TD-P.|.RZ..|.pct.|..TD..|.pct.|.TOF.|
Texas......|18.6|..73.6|.266.3|.339.9|...5.2...|..6-105|.24-10|.44-357|.60-171|.35%|...218|..7..|..18..|28-39|..72.|.18-39|..46.|27:13|
Ohio State.|13.1|.114.9|.164.3|.279.2|...4.4...|.14-105|.22-14|.24-178|.60-170|.35%|...199|..6..|..10..|20-25|..80.|.12-25|..48.|28:11|
* TOF = Opponents Time of Possession
Scoring By Quarter
Team.......|.1st.|.2nd.|.3rd.|.4th.|.Tot.|
Texas......|..28.|.78..|.56..|.6...|.223.|
Ohio State.|..24.|..57.|..37.|..39.|.157.|
As illustrated, Muschamp's 4-3 base has some room to improve. Still, considering that Texas' has a very young secondary and plays in a conference with several outstanding quarterbacks, the Defense was far from a liability. As would be expected with a young secondary, the Longhorns rank 8th in the conference as against the pass, and only gained 6 INTs while affording 18 TDs to opponents. As already intimated, considering the wealth of talent at QB in the conference, the secondary was tested often and is probably better than the numbers attest. There can also be little question that the secondary was assisted with superior line play. The Longhorns senior laden line leads the nation in sacks with 44, and gives up just 73.6 yards per contest on the ground, good for first in the conference and second in the nation. While the numbers are perhaps inflated somewhat by the conference's pass happy season (Affording less rushing yards generally as well as more opportunity to sack the QB), there is little doubt the front 4 are outstanding.
All that said, it will be interesting to see how Texas and Ohio State match up. On its face, it seems to be strength against strength (running game) and weakness against weakness (passing game). While an early season injury ended Chris "Beanie" Wells' chances to seriously challenge for the Heisman, there is perhaps no more a complete running back in the nation when he's healthy. Wells has demonstrated throughout his career "big game" ability and will no doubt try and leave his mark in what will likely be his last game in college. Against LSU's top rated line in 2007, Wells broke off several big runs. Can Texas slow him down? Likewise, in as much as Texas' weakness is in the secondary, it will be interesting to see how Freshman QB Terrelle Pryor fares. While Pryor has had an excellent freshman season, he is not quite yet the passer the Texas defense is used to seeing in the likes of Sam Bradford or Graham Harrell. While Pryor is much more mobile than either of those two, Texas is no stranger to playing a play-making quarterback, having had success against Missouri's Chase Daniel and Oklahoma State's Zac Robinson (as well as seeing their own Colt McCoy in practice every day). As always, it will likely come down to line play. If Texas can contain Pryor like they did Robinson and Daniel, the secondary will have an easier time of it. If, however, Pryor can move around better, it's unknown how long the secondary will be able to hold up.
Defensive Line
LE #37 Henry Melton (6-3 265 SR)
NT #99 Roy Miller (6-2 300 SR)
DT #95 Aaron Lewis (6-4 265 SR)
OR
DT #33 Lamarr Houston (6-2 275 JR)
RE #98 Brian Orapko (6-4 260 SR)
As already mentioned above, the D-Line is the clear strength of the Texas defense in 2008, even after the loss of outgoing Tackles Derek Lokey and Frank Okam. The unit is lead by All American DE Brian Orapko. The pass rushing phenom has earned the Nagurski, Lombardi, and Hendricks awards this season where he registered 10.5 sacks, 18 TFLs and 40 tackles while forcing 4 fumbles. With producton like his, Orapko commands a great deal of attention, which opens up opportunities for his line mates. Manning the other end is converted running back Henry Melton. In his first season as a full time end, Melton has performed quite well recording 26 tackles, 8 for loss with 4 sacks and a fumble recovery. The leading tackler on the line is Roy Miller. Coming off a solid junior campaign, Miller has continued to be a rock against the run and is able to get in to the backfield as well. With his size, he is the only true tackle of the front, as the other three positions are built more like ends. He has 46 tackles, 10 for loss with 4.5 sacks and a fumble recovery this season. The remaining tackle position will be manned by either Lewis or Houston, and both will see plenty of action regardless of who gets the start. Lewis was the starter for the first half of 2007 before health issues slowed him down. With only 8 tackles this season, 3 for loss with 1.5 sacks, he's more talented than his numbers indicate. Houston, meanwhile, had a very successful sophomore campaign when he playe do the outside of the line recording 66 tackles. After moving inside in 2008, his numbers have diminished some, but he remains a quick option coming from the interior. He has 20 tackles, 7 for loss with 1.5 sacks this season in 11 games.
Depth comes from ends: #32 Eddie Jones (6-3 260 SO), #97 Russell Carter (6-3 245 rFR), and #81 Sam Acho (6-3 258 SO), and tackles: #92 Ben Alexander (6-0 310 JR), #91 Kheeston Randall (6-5 275 FR). The leader among the reserves is Acho who in 12 games has recorded 15 tackles, 3 for loss (all sacks) and a forced fumble. Jones has all the tools to be outstanding, but has not yet quite put it all together just yet. Playing behind Orakpo hasn't necessarily helped either, but he has seen action in each of the Longhorn's 12 contests none the less, recording 8 tackles, with 5 of those coming for loss and 1 being a sack. After those, depth becomes a bit of an issue, particularly on the interior line where Alexander leads the reserves with just 4 tackles in 9 games, with 1 TFL and half a sack, while Randell has recorded just 2 tackles in 8 games. Russell Carter has seem action in 6 games, but has not recorded a tackle.
DL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU DL
Cam Heyward - 35 tackles, 4.5 for loss, 3 sacks 1 FF
Nader Abdallah - 32 tackles, 5 TFL, 1 sack, 1 Fum rec.
Doug Worthington - 31 tackles, 4 for loss, .5 sacks, 1 fumble rec.
Thad Gibson - 24 tackles, 7 TFL, 4 sacks 1 fumble rec. (TD)
The Texas and Ohio State D-lines are built in similar fashion with one 300 pounder in the middle and three DE types surrounding. Texas, however, has had more consistent success with the grouping as the numbers attest. While both clubs have a satisfactory rotation, none of the reserves have put up eye-popping numbers and each team would appear to suffer should any of the starters loose time to injury. Ohio State's line has seen some improvement over the year, and has a star in the making in Gibson (and Heyward), but Texas has a star in the moment in Orakpo. Likewise, Roy Miller has had an excellent season, which Texas surely needed because its starting interior line from 2007 has moved on, whereas Ohio State's interior has been the relative weakness of the defense. Likewise, the D-Line is the strength of Texas' defense, while the D-Line is the relative weakness of Ohio State's. In this respect, if the Ohio State offensive line can slow down the relentless pass rush, or if Pryor can buy time with his feet, Ohio State may be able to exploit the young secondary. Conversely, Texas fans should take some comfort in the likelihood of McCoy having some time to throw as Ohio State has not excelled at getting pressure on the QB.
Edge: Texas
Linebackers
SLB #2 Sergio Kindle (6-4 239 JR)
MLB #44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 238 SR)
WLB #38 Roddrick Muckelroy (6-2 230 JR)
Unlike Ohio State, Texas fans have suffered some frustration from the linebacking corps recently. With only one starter returning (Bobino), there were concerns going in to the year that, despite excellent athleticism, the Longhorn LBs would struggle. To the contrary, the corps has preformed well in 2008 in Muschamp's aggressive and attacking system. Bobino is a tad undersized at 5-11, but does possess excellent speed and can bring the wood. He was fourth on the team in tackles in 2007, but has struggled to achieve similar results this year where he has just 36 stops (26 solo) one TFL and a fumble recovery. Still, as a member of the '05 National Championship team, Bobino provides solid leadership and knows what it takes to get it done at a high level. Replacing Robert Killebrew is Sergio Kindle. More athletic than Killebrew, Kindle was the USAToday player of the year in 2005, but has struggled with injuries since joining the Longhorns. Nonetheless, Kindle is quick and aggressive and has had a solid junior campaign with 50 tackles, 13 for loss with 9 sacks (which leads all LBs and is second on the team) and 2 fumble recoveries. Rounding out the corps is Muckelroy, a big hitter from the weakside with excellent speed and expierence, though this is his first year as a starter. As a key reserve in 07, Muckelroy made 67 tackles, but has really turned it on in 2008 leading the team with 106 stops, with 4 TFLs and a 26 yard fumble recovery.
#1 Keenan Robinson (6-3 220 rFR), #11 Jared Norton (6-3 242 JR), #18 Emmanuel Acho (6-2 220 FR) provide the depth. Norton has been more productive that Bobino playing in each of the Longhorn's 12 games this season and recording 48 tackles, 4 for loss with 2.5 sacks. Robinson possesses outstanding athleticism having played wide reciever and defensive end while in High School (an unlikely combination to be sure). In 11 games this year he has 22 stops, 2 for loss with a sack. Acho, meanwhile has played 9 games and made 11 stops.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 121 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 INT
Marcus Freeman - 76 tackles, 9 TFL, 3.5 sacks 1 fumb. rec.
Ross Homan - 64 tackles, 6 TFL, 1 sack, 2 fumb. rec.
The Ohio State LBs have been far more productive in the tackling categories, though it must be noted that Texas faced far more passing attacks than running attacks. That said, the Buckeyes group has also come up with more interceptions (Texas' group has zero) and assisted the secondary in being one of the top rated units as against the pass. The difference in MLB is vast with Laurinaitis leading the Buckeyes and Bobino coming in some 90 tackles inferior, though Norton's production suggests better depth. If Wells can get past the D-Line, there may be room to roam on the second level, and there should also be areas to exploit in the passing game, though the Buckeyes tend to stay away from the TE as a matter of tendancies. The is little question that Texas will attack all over the field with McCoy being the most accurate passer Ohio State has faced. The Buckeyes will need to mix up their blitzes to pressure McCoy, though Buckeye fans can take some comfort in Texas's running game being bottled up.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #13 Ryan Palmer (5-10 190 SR)
FS #12 Earl Thomas (5-10 190 rFR)
SS #21 Blake Gideon (6-1 197 FR)
LCB #7 Deon Beasley (5-10 175 JR)
As they did in 2007, the 2008 Longhorns were made to replace three starting defensive backs. In a "quarterback" league, and with two freshmen starting at safety, there was the expectation that the unit would struggle at times. Considering these factors, the group has played relatively well, and of course much of that has to do with the fact that Texas reloads more than it rebuilds. The lone returning starter is Ryan Palmer who, in high school, was the 4th fastest sprinter in Texas. He can stay with anyone, and is a sure tackler, though he recorded no picks last year. This season, however, he leads the Longhorns with 3 INTs, while also making 30 tackles (down from 80 in 2007) with 3 sacks. On the other side is Beasley, a talented junior who saw the occasional spot start. He's not big at 5-10, 175, but he does possess good strength and has the potential to be a good ballhawk, though he has not picked off a pass in 2008 (He had 3 in 2007 while playing behind Brandon Foster). Beasley has 38 tackles, 3 for loss with a sack and a fumble recovery this year. At FS, the Longhorns lost their leading tackler from 07 in Marcus Griffin and have replaced him with Thomas, a redshirt freshman. Thomas, who may actually be better suited for corner, has put together an outstanding freshman campaign recording a team second best 63 tackles, 3 for loss with 2 INTs. If he continues to develop, he may end up among the top DBs in Texas history. Finally, Blake Gideon mans the SS spot. Nothing short of a tackling machine in High School, Gideon reported to Texas as an early enrollee to take part in spring drills and has played his way in to the starting role. He has faced some adversity already this season as it was Gideon who dropped a sure interception which would have sealed the win against Texas Tech. Despite that misfortune, however, Gideon is poised to be a great player in his own right as he finnished his first regular season with a team 3rd best 59 tackles, with 1 TFL.
Depth comes from corners: #3 Curtis Brown (6-1 178 SO), #8 Chykie Brown (6-1 185 SO), #4 Aaron Williams (6-1 175 FR), and safeties: #23 Christian Scott (6-1 208 rFR) , #5 Ben Wells (6-1 195 rFR),#27 Nolan Brewster (6-2 210 FR). The reserves are lead by Chykie and Curtis Brown (unrelated), the former of whom has 27 tackles in 10 games with 2 for loss and a sack, and the latter of who has 26 tackles in 12 contests. Williams has the remaining INT on Texas's season, an 81 yarder, to go along with 16 tackles (1 for loss), while Brewster has 7 tackles in 12 games and Wells 2 tackles in 11.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 54 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 sack, 3 INT
Kurt Coleman - 67 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 sack, 4 INT
Anderson Russell - 58 tackles, 1 INT, 2 fumb. rec.
Chimdi Chekwa - 19 tackles, 1 INT
A common refrain throughout 2008, but still true - the best DB on the field will be Malcolm Jenkins. The All-American senior anchors one of the best secondaries in college football and despite the reputation of being the corner to avoid, has still picked off 3 passes this season. While Texas's group is young, the bulk of Ohio State's unit has been together for 3 full seasons. While the Longhorns' unit is not particularly deep, the Buckeyes rotate in the likes of Donald Washington and Jermale Hines freely. The Longhorns have, despite greater opportunity, 8 less interceptions and have allowed 8 more TDs through the air than have the Buckeyes. While these numbers are skewed a bit considering the respective opponents, the edge here goes to Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Texas's defense is one of the better defenses in the Big XII, but still rates only 50th in the nation in total yards while the Buckeyes stop forces are in the top 10 (9th). The Longhorns success on the defensive side of the ball starts with superior line play. If the line is unable to achieve pressure on the quarterback, a young secondary can be exploited. Likewise, if the line struggles, a power back like Chris Wells will have success at the second level. Fortunately for the Longhorns, however, is that the line is unlikely to come up short as it has produced all season long. The Texas LBs and DBs are relatively inferior to Ohio State's, but that is not a suggestion that Texas's back seven are not able to compete at a high level. Make no mistake, they are and Buckeye fans should expect a hard nosed game. Texas might not create many turnovers, but they do a decent job of keeping the ball out of the endzone nonetheless. The Buckeyes offense will hardly be among the most explosive the Longhorns defense has seen, though it is also true the Longhorns have not had to contend with a defense as good as Ohio State's. As mentioned above, this game appears to be a match of strength on strength and weakness on weakness. Who could ask for much more as the Buckeyes and Longhorns look to break their 1-1 tie on a neutral site and before a national audience once more.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2008 Texas Longhorns Special Teams PreviewMuschamp, a walk-on, played Safety for the Georgia Bulldogs (1991-1994) earning 4 letters and serving as a co-captain his senior season. His coaching career began at Auburn in 1995 where he served as a graduate assistant through his graduation with a masters degree in 1996. From there, Muschamp coached the secondary at Division II West Georgia for a season before taking the same position at Division IAA Eastern Kentucky the following year and then, only one year after that, being named Defensive Coordinator at Division II Valdosta State where he helped turn the program around from a 4-7 club in to a 10-2 team. While Muschamp would leave for LSU in 2001, Valdosta State would go on to win 35 straight. At LSU, Muschamp coached the Linebackers for a season, before being elevated to Defensive Coordinator in 2002. He continued to serve as DC and Linebacker's coach through 2004, heading up some outstanding defenses and earning a National Title in 2003 with Nick Saban. Muschamp followed Saban to the NFL where he held the title of "Assistant Head Coach of the Defense" and lead a defense which was in the top 10 in such categories as yards per play, yards per rush, and yards per pass, while having the second best team in terms of sacks. Muschamp returned to the college game, however, after the 2005 season where he served as Auburn's Defensive Coordinator for the two seasons before coming to Texas. His Auburn teams held opponents to 20 points or fewer 21 times in 26 games and were consistently among the national leaders in several statistical categories. His first Texas team performed as follows (and as against Ohio State):
Stats......|Pts.|..Rush|..Pass|.Total|Yds/Play|.INT...|.Fum..|.Sack..|.3rd D.|.pct|.1st D|.TD-R|.TD-P.|.RZ..|.pct.|..TD..|.pct.|.TOF.|
Texas......|18.6|..73.6|.266.3|.339.9|...5.2...|..6-105|.24-10|.44-357|.60-171|.35%|...218|..7..|..18..|28-39|..72.|.18-39|..46.|27:13|
Ohio State.|13.1|.114.9|.164.3|.279.2|...4.4...|.14-105|.22-14|.24-178|.60-170|.35%|...199|..6..|..10..|20-25|..80.|.12-25|..48.|28:11|
* TOF = Opponents Time of Possession
Scoring By Quarter
Team.......|.1st.|.2nd.|.3rd.|.4th.|.Tot.|
Texas......|..28.|.78..|.56..|.6...|.223.|
Ohio State.|..24.|..57.|..37.|..39.|.157.|
As illustrated, Muschamp's 4-3 base has some room to improve. Still, considering that Texas' has a very young secondary and plays in a conference with several outstanding quarterbacks, the Defense was far from a liability. As would be expected with a young secondary, the Longhorns rank 8th in the conference as against the pass, and only gained 6 INTs while affording 18 TDs to opponents. As already intimated, considering the wealth of talent at QB in the conference, the secondary was tested often and is probably better than the numbers attest. There can also be little question that the secondary was assisted with superior line play. The Longhorns senior laden line leads the nation in sacks with 44, and gives up just 73.6 yards per contest on the ground, good for first in the conference and second in the nation. While the numbers are perhaps inflated somewhat by the conference's pass happy season (Affording less rushing yards generally as well as more opportunity to sack the QB), there is little doubt the front 4 are outstanding.
All that said, it will be interesting to see how Texas and Ohio State match up. On its face, it seems to be strength against strength (running game) and weakness against weakness (passing game). While an early season injury ended Chris "Beanie" Wells' chances to seriously challenge for the Heisman, there is perhaps no more a complete running back in the nation when he's healthy. Wells has demonstrated throughout his career "big game" ability and will no doubt try and leave his mark in what will likely be his last game in college. Against LSU's top rated line in 2007, Wells broke off several big runs. Can Texas slow him down? Likewise, in as much as Texas' weakness is in the secondary, it will be interesting to see how Freshman QB Terrelle Pryor fares. While Pryor has had an excellent freshman season, he is not quite yet the passer the Texas defense is used to seeing in the likes of Sam Bradford or Graham Harrell. While Pryor is much more mobile than either of those two, Texas is no stranger to playing a play-making quarterback, having had success against Missouri's Chase Daniel and Oklahoma State's Zac Robinson (as well as seeing their own Colt McCoy in practice every day). As always, it will likely come down to line play. If Texas can contain Pryor like they did Robinson and Daniel, the secondary will have an easier time of it. If, however, Pryor can move around better, it's unknown how long the secondary will be able to hold up.
Defensive Line
LE #37 Henry Melton (6-3 265 SR)
NT #99 Roy Miller (6-2 300 SR)
DT #95 Aaron Lewis (6-4 265 SR)
OR
DT #33 Lamarr Houston (6-2 275 JR)
RE #98 Brian Orapko (6-4 260 SR)
As already mentioned above, the D-Line is the clear strength of the Texas defense in 2008, even after the loss of outgoing Tackles Derek Lokey and Frank Okam. The unit is lead by All American DE Brian Orapko. The pass rushing phenom has earned the Nagurski, Lombardi, and Hendricks awards this season where he registered 10.5 sacks, 18 TFLs and 40 tackles while forcing 4 fumbles. With producton like his, Orapko commands a great deal of attention, which opens up opportunities for his line mates. Manning the other end is converted running back Henry Melton. In his first season as a full time end, Melton has performed quite well recording 26 tackles, 8 for loss with 4 sacks and a fumble recovery. The leading tackler on the line is Roy Miller. Coming off a solid junior campaign, Miller has continued to be a rock against the run and is able to get in to the backfield as well. With his size, he is the only true tackle of the front, as the other three positions are built more like ends. He has 46 tackles, 10 for loss with 4.5 sacks and a fumble recovery this season. The remaining tackle position will be manned by either Lewis or Houston, and both will see plenty of action regardless of who gets the start. Lewis was the starter for the first half of 2007 before health issues slowed him down. With only 8 tackles this season, 3 for loss with 1.5 sacks, he's more talented than his numbers indicate. Houston, meanwhile, had a very successful sophomore campaign when he playe do the outside of the line recording 66 tackles. After moving inside in 2008, his numbers have diminished some, but he remains a quick option coming from the interior. He has 20 tackles, 7 for loss with 1.5 sacks this season in 11 games.
Depth comes from ends: #32 Eddie Jones (6-3 260 SO), #97 Russell Carter (6-3 245 rFR), and #81 Sam Acho (6-3 258 SO), and tackles: #92 Ben Alexander (6-0 310 JR), #91 Kheeston Randall (6-5 275 FR). The leader among the reserves is Acho who in 12 games has recorded 15 tackles, 3 for loss (all sacks) and a forced fumble. Jones has all the tools to be outstanding, but has not yet quite put it all together just yet. Playing behind Orakpo hasn't necessarily helped either, but he has seen action in each of the Longhorn's 12 contests none the less, recording 8 tackles, with 5 of those coming for loss and 1 being a sack. After those, depth becomes a bit of an issue, particularly on the interior line where Alexander leads the reserves with just 4 tackles in 9 games, with 1 TFL and half a sack, while Randell has recorded just 2 tackles in 8 games. Russell Carter has seem action in 6 games, but has not recorded a tackle.
DL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU DL
Cam Heyward - 35 tackles, 4.5 for loss, 3 sacks 1 FF
Nader Abdallah - 32 tackles, 5 TFL, 1 sack, 1 Fum rec.
Doug Worthington - 31 tackles, 4 for loss, .5 sacks, 1 fumble rec.
Thad Gibson - 24 tackles, 7 TFL, 4 sacks 1 fumble rec. (TD)
The Texas and Ohio State D-lines are built in similar fashion with one 300 pounder in the middle and three DE types surrounding. Texas, however, has had more consistent success with the grouping as the numbers attest. While both clubs have a satisfactory rotation, none of the reserves have put up eye-popping numbers and each team would appear to suffer should any of the starters loose time to injury. Ohio State's line has seen some improvement over the year, and has a star in the making in Gibson (and Heyward), but Texas has a star in the moment in Orakpo. Likewise, Roy Miller has had an excellent season, which Texas surely needed because its starting interior line from 2007 has moved on, whereas Ohio State's interior has been the relative weakness of the defense. Likewise, the D-Line is the strength of Texas' defense, while the D-Line is the relative weakness of Ohio State's. In this respect, if the Ohio State offensive line can slow down the relentless pass rush, or if Pryor can buy time with his feet, Ohio State may be able to exploit the young secondary. Conversely, Texas fans should take some comfort in the likelihood of McCoy having some time to throw as Ohio State has not excelled at getting pressure on the QB.
Edge: Texas
Linebackers
SLB #2 Sergio Kindle (6-4 239 JR)
MLB #44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 238 SR)
WLB #38 Roddrick Muckelroy (6-2 230 JR)
Unlike Ohio State, Texas fans have suffered some frustration from the linebacking corps recently. With only one starter returning (Bobino), there were concerns going in to the year that, despite excellent athleticism, the Longhorn LBs would struggle. To the contrary, the corps has preformed well in 2008 in Muschamp's aggressive and attacking system. Bobino is a tad undersized at 5-11, but does possess excellent speed and can bring the wood. He was fourth on the team in tackles in 2007, but has struggled to achieve similar results this year where he has just 36 stops (26 solo) one TFL and a fumble recovery. Still, as a member of the '05 National Championship team, Bobino provides solid leadership and knows what it takes to get it done at a high level. Replacing Robert Killebrew is Sergio Kindle. More athletic than Killebrew, Kindle was the USAToday player of the year in 2005, but has struggled with injuries since joining the Longhorns. Nonetheless, Kindle is quick and aggressive and has had a solid junior campaign with 50 tackles, 13 for loss with 9 sacks (which leads all LBs and is second on the team) and 2 fumble recoveries. Rounding out the corps is Muckelroy, a big hitter from the weakside with excellent speed and expierence, though this is his first year as a starter. As a key reserve in 07, Muckelroy made 67 tackles, but has really turned it on in 2008 leading the team with 106 stops, with 4 TFLs and a 26 yard fumble recovery.
#1 Keenan Robinson (6-3 220 rFR), #11 Jared Norton (6-3 242 JR), #18 Emmanuel Acho (6-2 220 FR) provide the depth. Norton has been more productive that Bobino playing in each of the Longhorn's 12 games this season and recording 48 tackles, 4 for loss with 2.5 sacks. Robinson possesses outstanding athleticism having played wide reciever and defensive end while in High School (an unlikely combination to be sure). In 11 games this year he has 22 stops, 2 for loss with a sack. Acho, meanwhile has played 9 games and made 11 stops.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 121 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 INT
Marcus Freeman - 76 tackles, 9 TFL, 3.5 sacks 1 fumb. rec.
Ross Homan - 64 tackles, 6 TFL, 1 sack, 2 fumb. rec.
The Ohio State LBs have been far more productive in the tackling categories, though it must be noted that Texas faced far more passing attacks than running attacks. That said, the Buckeyes group has also come up with more interceptions (Texas' group has zero) and assisted the secondary in being one of the top rated units as against the pass. The difference in MLB is vast with Laurinaitis leading the Buckeyes and Bobino coming in some 90 tackles inferior, though Norton's production suggests better depth. If Wells can get past the D-Line, there may be room to roam on the second level, and there should also be areas to exploit in the passing game, though the Buckeyes tend to stay away from the TE as a matter of tendancies. The is little question that Texas will attack all over the field with McCoy being the most accurate passer Ohio State has faced. The Buckeyes will need to mix up their blitzes to pressure McCoy, though Buckeye fans can take some comfort in Texas's running game being bottled up.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #13 Ryan Palmer (5-10 190 SR)
FS #12 Earl Thomas (5-10 190 rFR)
SS #21 Blake Gideon (6-1 197 FR)
LCB #7 Deon Beasley (5-10 175 JR)
As they did in 2007, the 2008 Longhorns were made to replace three starting defensive backs. In a "quarterback" league, and with two freshmen starting at safety, there was the expectation that the unit would struggle at times. Considering these factors, the group has played relatively well, and of course much of that has to do with the fact that Texas reloads more than it rebuilds. The lone returning starter is Ryan Palmer who, in high school, was the 4th fastest sprinter in Texas. He can stay with anyone, and is a sure tackler, though he recorded no picks last year. This season, however, he leads the Longhorns with 3 INTs, while also making 30 tackles (down from 80 in 2007) with 3 sacks. On the other side is Beasley, a talented junior who saw the occasional spot start. He's not big at 5-10, 175, but he does possess good strength and has the potential to be a good ballhawk, though he has not picked off a pass in 2008 (He had 3 in 2007 while playing behind Brandon Foster). Beasley has 38 tackles, 3 for loss with a sack and a fumble recovery this year. At FS, the Longhorns lost their leading tackler from 07 in Marcus Griffin and have replaced him with Thomas, a redshirt freshman. Thomas, who may actually be better suited for corner, has put together an outstanding freshman campaign recording a team second best 63 tackles, 3 for loss with 2 INTs. If he continues to develop, he may end up among the top DBs in Texas history. Finally, Blake Gideon mans the SS spot. Nothing short of a tackling machine in High School, Gideon reported to Texas as an early enrollee to take part in spring drills and has played his way in to the starting role. He has faced some adversity already this season as it was Gideon who dropped a sure interception which would have sealed the win against Texas Tech. Despite that misfortune, however, Gideon is poised to be a great player in his own right as he finnished his first regular season with a team 3rd best 59 tackles, with 1 TFL.
Depth comes from corners: #3 Curtis Brown (6-1 178 SO), #8 Chykie Brown (6-1 185 SO), #4 Aaron Williams (6-1 175 FR), and safeties: #23 Christian Scott (6-1 208 rFR) , #5 Ben Wells (6-1 195 rFR),#27 Nolan Brewster (6-2 210 FR). The reserves are lead by Chykie and Curtis Brown (unrelated), the former of whom has 27 tackles in 10 games with 2 for loss and a sack, and the latter of who has 26 tackles in 12 contests. Williams has the remaining INT on Texas's season, an 81 yarder, to go along with 16 tackles (1 for loss), while Brewster has 7 tackles in 12 games and Wells 2 tackles in 11.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 54 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 sack, 3 INT
Kurt Coleman - 67 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 1 sack, 4 INT
Anderson Russell - 58 tackles, 1 INT, 2 fumb. rec.
Chimdi Chekwa - 19 tackles, 1 INT
A common refrain throughout 2008, but still true - the best DB on the field will be Malcolm Jenkins. The All-American senior anchors one of the best secondaries in college football and despite the reputation of being the corner to avoid, has still picked off 3 passes this season. While Texas's group is young, the bulk of Ohio State's unit has been together for 3 full seasons. While the Longhorns' unit is not particularly deep, the Buckeyes rotate in the likes of Donald Washington and Jermale Hines freely. The Longhorns have, despite greater opportunity, 8 less interceptions and have allowed 8 more TDs through the air than have the Buckeyes. While these numbers are skewed a bit considering the respective opponents, the edge here goes to Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Texas's defense is one of the better defenses in the Big XII, but still rates only 50th in the nation in total yards while the Buckeyes stop forces are in the top 10 (9th). The Longhorns success on the defensive side of the ball starts with superior line play. If the line is unable to achieve pressure on the quarterback, a young secondary can be exploited. Likewise, if the line struggles, a power back like Chris Wells will have success at the second level. Fortunately for the Longhorns, however, is that the line is unlikely to come up short as it has produced all season long. The Texas LBs and DBs are relatively inferior to Ohio State's, but that is not a suggestion that Texas's back seven are not able to compete at a high level. Make no mistake, they are and Buckeye fans should expect a hard nosed game. Texas might not create many turnovers, but they do a decent job of keeping the ball out of the endzone nonetheless. The Buckeyes offense will hardly be among the most explosive the Longhorns defense has seen, though it is also true the Longhorns have not had to contend with a defense as good as Ohio State's. As mentioned above, this game appears to be a match of strength on strength and weakness on weakness. Who could ask for much more as the Buckeyes and Longhorns look to break their 1-1 tie on a neutral site and before a national audience once more.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Returning Starters: 2
2008 Stats
Punting: 52 for 2041 yds, 39.25 avg
Punt Returns: Quan Cosby 19 for 178 yds, 9.37 avg 46th in the nation
Kicking: Ryan Bailey 58 of 59 PATs, 18 of 22 FGs, 112 pts, 23rd in the nation
Kickoff Returns: Quan Cosby, 42 for 1017 yds, 24.21 avg, 55th in the Nation
Punt Return Defense: 20 for 196 yds, 9.8 avg, 1 TD, 75th in the nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 40 for 1441 yds, 20.59 avg, 1 TD, 46th in the Nation
2008 Stats
Punting: John Gold 36 for 1564 yds, 43.44 avg, 4th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Quan Cosby 6 for 38 6.3 avg, Jordan Shipley 6 for 64 yds, 10.7 avg 1 TD
Kicking: Ryan Bailey 57 of 57 PATs, 9 of 11 FGs, 84 pts, 47th in the Nation
Kickoff Returns: Quan Cosby 16 for 339 yds, 21.2 avg, Jordan Shipley 11 for 312 yds, 28.4 avg 1 TD
Punt Return Defense: 10 for 58 yds, 5.8 avg, 28th in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 63 for 1473 yds, 23.38 avg 95th in the Nation
The Texas Longhorns have fielded solid Special Teams this year. Save for one glaring exception, all of their specialist rank in the top half and in some cases higher, in the Nation. Punter Lawrence has had an outstanding year and returners Cosby and Shipley are quick, elusive and effective. This game-in-a-game will be very interesting to watch.
Special Teams
P #47 John Gold (6-3, 210, So., Palestine HS, Palestine TX)
PK #39 Ryan Bailey (6-2, 205, Jr., Anderson HS, Austin, TX)
PR/KR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, Sr., Mart HS, Mart TX)
PR/KR #8 Jordan Shipley (6-0, 190, Sr., Burnet HS, Burnet, TX)
LS (FGs and PATs) #53 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, So., Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
LS (Punts) #58 William Harvey (5-11, 235, Jr., Memorial HS, Houston, TX)
Any team that had as successful a year as the Longhorns have had this year usually has at least solid special teams play. In Texas' case, it was better than solid with the special teams putting the vaunted Longhorn offense in great position time after time. The only exception would be kickoff return defense which is ranked only 95th in the nation. It will be an interesting match with Ohio State's struggles in that department.
ST Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Quan Cosby/Jordan Shipley versus OSU STs
Both Cosby and Shipley are speedy, elusive and experienced. Both have excelled in Special Teams play for multiple years. Both MUST be contained at least a majority of the time or the Buckeye Defense will be put in a very difficult position with Texas' prolific offense.
Edge: Texas
Head-to-Head: Hartline/Robiske/Small versus Texas STs
Again, for the Buckeyes to win the battle for field position, AJ has to nail them deep and OSU's returners must get good yardage. A heady game is a must. This includes making wise choices regarding fair catches vs letting the ball roll. Turnovers in this area will be a terrible blow and must be avoided. The Longhorn's punt defense is very solid, but if the Buckeyes can get their kickoff game going, the Longhorn's kickoff defense can be exploited. With the offense Texas has, there may be ample opportunity for kickoff returns.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Like any team that has enjoyed the success Texas has this year, special teams play was very very good. The Buckeyes must win the battle of field position and make the explosive Texas offense drive the length of the field for a score. As with every other aspect of this game, it will be tough.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
PredictionsPunting: 52 for 2041 yds, 39.25 avg
Punt Returns: Quan Cosby 19 for 178 yds, 9.37 avg 46th in the nation
Kicking: Ryan Bailey 58 of 59 PATs, 18 of 22 FGs, 112 pts, 23rd in the nation
Kickoff Returns: Quan Cosby, 42 for 1017 yds, 24.21 avg, 55th in the Nation
Punt Return Defense: 20 for 196 yds, 9.8 avg, 1 TD, 75th in the nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 40 for 1441 yds, 20.59 avg, 1 TD, 46th in the Nation
2008 Stats
Punting: John Gold 36 for 1564 yds, 43.44 avg, 4th in the Nation
Punt Returns: Quan Cosby 6 for 38 6.3 avg, Jordan Shipley 6 for 64 yds, 10.7 avg 1 TD
Kicking: Ryan Bailey 57 of 57 PATs, 9 of 11 FGs, 84 pts, 47th in the Nation
Kickoff Returns: Quan Cosby 16 for 339 yds, 21.2 avg, Jordan Shipley 11 for 312 yds, 28.4 avg 1 TD
Punt Return Defense: 10 for 58 yds, 5.8 avg, 28th in the Nation
Kickoff Return Defense: 63 for 1473 yds, 23.38 avg 95th in the Nation
The Texas Longhorns have fielded solid Special Teams this year. Save for one glaring exception, all of their specialist rank in the top half and in some cases higher, in the Nation. Punter Lawrence has had an outstanding year and returners Cosby and Shipley are quick, elusive and effective. This game-in-a-game will be very interesting to watch.
Special Teams
P #47 John Gold (6-3, 210, So., Palestine HS, Palestine TX)
PK #39 Ryan Bailey (6-2, 205, Jr., Anderson HS, Austin, TX)
PR/KR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, Sr., Mart HS, Mart TX)
PR/KR #8 Jordan Shipley (6-0, 190, Sr., Burnet HS, Burnet, TX)
LS (FGs and PATs) #53 Greg Smith (6-4, 295, So., Montgomery HS, Montgomery, TX)
LS (Punts) #58 William Harvey (5-11, 235, Jr., Memorial HS, Houston, TX)
Any team that had as successful a year as the Longhorns have had this year usually has at least solid special teams play. In Texas' case, it was better than solid with the special teams putting the vaunted Longhorn offense in great position time after time. The only exception would be kickoff return defense which is ranked only 95th in the nation. It will be an interesting match with Ohio State's struggles in that department.
ST Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Quan Cosby/Jordan Shipley versus OSU STs
Both Cosby and Shipley are speedy, elusive and experienced. Both have excelled in Special Teams play for multiple years. Both MUST be contained at least a majority of the time or the Buckeye Defense will be put in a very difficult position with Texas' prolific offense.
Edge: Texas
Head-to-Head: Hartline/Robiske/Small versus Texas STs
Again, for the Buckeyes to win the battle for field position, AJ has to nail them deep and OSU's returners must get good yardage. A heady game is a must. This includes making wise choices regarding fair catches vs letting the ball roll. Turnovers in this area will be a terrible blow and must be avoided. The Longhorn's punt defense is very solid, but if the Buckeyes can get their kickoff game going, the Longhorn's kickoff defense can be exploited. With the offense Texas has, there may be ample opportunity for kickoff returns.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Like any team that has enjoyed the success Texas has this year, special teams play was very very good. The Buckeyes must win the battle of field position and make the explosive Texas offense drive the length of the field for a score. As with every other aspect of this game, it will be tough.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B+
BB73's prediction: 31-20, Texas
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 2-1, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-17, Texas
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-23, Texas
jwinslow's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 27-20, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-10, Texas
Previous Game's Results (OSU 42 - TSUN 7)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(207) jwinslow's prediction: 41-10, Ohio State (4 + 203 last week = 207)
(230) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 36-0, Ohio State (13 + 217 last week = 230)
(231) Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (17 + 214 last week = 231)
(238) JCOSU86's prediction: 28-7, Ohio State (14 + 224 last week = 238)
(241) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (7 + 234 last week = 241)
(261) BB73's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (17 + 244 last week = 261)
(261) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (17 + 244 last week = 261)
(270) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (17 + 253 last week = 270)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 2-1, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-17, Texas
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-23, Texas
jwinslow's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 27-20, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-10, Texas
Previous Game's Results (OSU 42 - TSUN 7)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(207) jwinslow's prediction: 41-10, Ohio State (4 + 203 last week = 207)
(230) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 36-0, Ohio State (13 + 217 last week = 230)
(231) Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (17 + 214 last week = 231)
(238) JCOSU86's prediction: 28-7, Ohio State (14 + 224 last week = 238)
(241) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (7 + 234 last week = 241)
(261) BB73's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (17 + 244 last week = 261)
(261) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (17 + 244 last week = 261)
(270) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (17 + 253 last week = 270)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
Last edited:
