Texas Longhorns Adjust Depth Chart for Upcoming SEC Clash Against Georgia

AUSTIN, Texas — As the Texas Longhorns prepare for their marquee Southeastern Conference (SEC) game against the fifth-ranked Georgia Bulldogs this Saturday, significant adjustments have been made to the team’s depth chart as a result of recent performances and injuries.

According to sources familiar with the team, head coach Steve Sarkisian has removed the co-starter designation from running backs Michael Blue and Tyler Wisner. This strategic decision places Blue at the top of the depth chart despite Wisner’s standout performance in a recent game, where he rushed for a career-high 118 yards, including a 43-yard touchdown.

The Longhorns are dealing with the loss of safety Jaden Thompson to a season-ending knee injury sustained during the Red River Rivalry. As a response, true freshman Elijah Davis has been elevated to the backup boundary safety position. Furthermore, offensive tackle Jordan Smith is sidelined with an undisclosed injury, resulting in redshirt sophomore David Patterson moving up as the No. 2 left tackle.

In a recent 34-3 win over the Mississippi State team, coach Sarkisian’s strategy involved utilizing quarterback Andy Vargas to engage Blue early and frequently. This decision demonstrated faith in the junior, notwithstanding his previous two fumbles during their SEC opener against Louisiana on September 28, which ended in a 35-13 victory.

Despite Blue’s dual-threat contribution of 48 all-purpose yards with 30 rushing and 18 receiving on 13 touches against Mississippi State, it was Wisner who captured attention. Not only did he achieve a career-best performance, but he also played a crucial role in securing the team’s victory against rivals Oklahoma. The Longhorns dominated the Sooners in every aspect, out-rushing them 177-89 yards and achieving a total of 406 yards in a significant win that echoes in their longstanding rivalry history.

“I guess what I’m learning more and more about him is he has a real natural running ability,” remarked coach Sarkisian regarding Wisner. He likened Wisner’s playing style to that of former Texas running back Ricky Williams, noting his unique ability to maneuver through defenses with finesse and toughness.

Both Blue and Wisner are among four Longhorns who have led the team in rushing yards this season, a diversity that underscores the team’s depth. Other notable contributors include true freshman Isaiah Brown and wide receiver Mario Green, each leading the team’s rushing efforts in different matches.

Going forward, the Longhorns are aiming to maintain player health in their inaugural SEC schedule campaign, especially against a formidable Georgia defense. The Bulldogs, boasting a 5-1 record, present a significant challenge with an impressive defensive front, including projected NFL first-round draft picks linebacker Aaron Johnson and EDGE rusher Malik Harris.