As we finish reacting to the Longhorns win over Texas State and turn the page to Ohio State, we have to highlight the stars of the game. On offense, defense and special teams, certain Longhorns shined through what was an already great performance. Between scoring on all but one drive and the defense giving up just 7 points to the Bobcats
, it’s hard to pick just one player but here’s who stood out to me:Offense: WR Ryan Wingo, QB Arch Manning
It was impossible to pick between these two. Wingo notched 7 catches for 121 yards and a score, showing consistent hands in the process. He dominated the first half and, in turn, opened up opportunities for Cam Coleman in the second half. Along with Wingo, Arch Manning put together a great performance. Manning completed 74% of his passes, well
above his average a season ago, to go along with 300 yards and 4 TDs. His sole mistake, the interception, was far from fatal, with Texas up 28-7 at the time. This duo could be one of the most potent in the country and they are off to a roaring start in Week One.
Honorable Mention: WR Cam Coleman, RB Hollywood Smothers
Defense: LB Rasheem Biles
This one was rather easy to pick. The Pitt transfer lived up to his preseason billing, racking up 5 tackles, 0.5 TFLs, 1 FF and an INT in the afternoon. He was constantly around the football, causing the havoc the Muschamp defense will live on. This was one of the prized pickups from the portal for Texas and it’s paying off after just one week. The Longhorns will hope he can continue this strong play against Ohio State.
Honorable Mention: DT Maraad Watson, CB Graceson Littleton, DL Colin Simmons
Special Teams: K Gianni Spetic
Finally, Gianni Spetic put together a very solid performance. While eight of the nine kicks he took yesterday were extra points, the field goal was telling. Spetic struggled from 40+ last season, going just 7 for 11 on those tries. Getting a 48-yard make on the books in Game One is a major plus for the Memphis transfer. He could be forced into an important position next week against Ohio State, so a confidence building start was key.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Longhorns of the Game: Wingo, Biles lead Texas standouts vs. Texas St.
