Tale of the Tape: Texas vs. ULM
The first game of the Texas Longhorns football season is tomorrow, and like a title fight, it’s not a bad idea to look at the tale of the tape the day before. Inside Texas assesses who might have the advantage at each position group heading into tomorrow’s Texas vs. ULM contest. The Longhorns hold most advantages, but not all of them.
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Quarterback
Chandler Rogers may have college experience on his side, but he lacks the arm-talent and infrastructure that surrounds Quinn Ewers. This one is an “Advantage” solely because it’s Ewers’ first start.
Tale of the tape: Advantage Texas
Running back
There isn’t a running back room in the country better than the one that Tashard Choice manages. Expect a lot of players to record carries this Saturday.
Tale of the tape: Major advantage Texas
Wide receiver
Texas is still strong at this position even without Isaiah Neyor and Agiye Hall. The only thing keeping this from being a “Major advantage” is Boogie Knight. Consider it only being an “Advantage” a credit to his ability.
Tale of the tape: Advantage Texas
Tight end
Ja’Tavion Sanders is a dual-threat at tight end. It’s difficult to say what the ULM tight ends threaten.
Tale of the tape: Major advantage Texas
Offensive line
Both ULM and Texas are planning to trot out young offensive linemen on Saturday, many in either their first or second years in college. Expect to see some young player mistakes, but talent level alone makes this one go in Texas’ favor.
Tale of the tape: Advantage Texas
Defensive line
The Texas defensive line enters the season as part of a defense that has plenty to prove. ULM offers a three-man front that won’t disrupt too much. After last season, though, it’s hard to say the Texas defensive line has a major advantage over any team they play.
Tale of the tape: Advantage Texas
Linebacker
With Zack Woodard patrolling the middle for the Warhawks, and with so much uncertainty surrounding the position for the Longhorns, this is one of the only places that can be called even. If there were a “slight Texas advantage” category, I’d use it here.
Tale of the tape: Even
Secondary
Texas is breaking in a lot of players at new positions. ULM is breaking in a lot of new players.
Tale of the tape: Advantage Texas
Specialists
Questions surround the Texas specialists. First, will it be Will Stone or Bert Auburn? How will Isaac Pearson fare with the lights on? Will Zach Edwards be a consistent long snapper? On the ULM side, Calum Sutherland hit 16-of-21 field goals last year and Devyn McCormick averaged 40 yards a punt.
Tale of the tape: Major advantage ULM
