AUSTIN,TX/USA – NOVEMBER 14: Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium at campus of University of Texas. November 14, 2013.
Game Preview: Texas v. Louisiana-Monroe
The Matchup
Texas (0-0) v. Louisiana-Monroe (0-0)
When :September 3, 2022
Gametime: 7:00 pm
TV: Longhorn Network
What’s at Stake: Year two of the Steve Sarkisian era begins as the Longhorns face Louisiana-Monroe. Texas has this week to work out the kinks with a new starter at quarterback and prove that the defense is improved before #1 Alabama comes calling next week.
When the Longhorns have the ball: Focus will be on new starter Quinn Ewers. The transfer from Ohio State returns to his home state to take the reins of the Texas offense after beating out Hudson Card in a preseason quarterback battle. Ewers will look to use his athleticism and powerful arm, combined with the skills of WR Xavier Worthy and running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson to take the offense to a new level.
The Warhawks return only four starters on defense and were very suspect versus the pass last year giving up 289 yards a game and 30 passing touchdowns. If Texas young offensive line can protect Ewers first game could be very explosive.
When Louisiana-Monroe has the ball: The Warhawks feature 8 starters from last year, including quarterback Chandler Rogers, a dual threat that won the job in fall camp. Rogers will look to find Boogie Knight as his primary target and running backs Andrew Henry and Malik Jackson will power the rushing attack. The Warhawks offensive line allowed 39 sacks last year and could allow the Longhorns defense to start the year on a high note. Look for Ohio State transfer cornerback Ryan Watts to make an impact in the Texas Secondary.
Key Horns to Watch: Weapons like Ewers, Worthy, and the running back duo should feature for the ‘Horns against an overmatched Warhawk defense, but developing new weapons like Alabama transfer tight end Jahleel Billingsley or wide receiver Jordan Whittington could be the key to future success for Texas.
The Bottom Line: Texas has too many weapons for the Warhawk defense and the Louisiana-Monroe offense line should have more than they can handle with the Texas front. Longhorns win in a rout.