Texas is closing in on a true must-win game in Columbia, Missouri this weekend. Missouri sports a very talented roster, led by Austin Simmons and Jamal Roberts in the backfield. Texas is walking into this game dealing with a number of injuries, meaning depth pieces will have to perform and starters will have to pick up the playmaking slack. Considering that, I’ve highlighted six Longhorns that need strong performances if they’re going to keep their CFP hopes alive.
Texas Longhorns WR Ryan Wingo
Ryan Wingo is one of the names likely to appear on the injury report later tonight. According to reports, it seems his likelihood to play is higher than other Longhorns. On top of that, it’s a homecoming for the St. Louis native and former Missouri commit. I’d expect Wingo to not only
play, but be a massive part of the Texas game plan. Considering the nature of the Tigers’ front seven, quick passes will be a very important piece of the Texas offense. Wingo will get those chances on Saturday and if he can take advantage, the Texas offense can get moving.
Texas Longhorns TE Michael Masunas
The one common theme along the Ohio State and Ole Miss game was the Texas run game found a rhythm. Against Ole Miss, Masunas was a massive reason for that success. His blocking on the outside opened big running holes for Raleek Brown and Michael Terry III. Masunas will need to answer the bell and put together a great blocking performance on Saturday. If the Texas run game finds no rhythm, it’s unlikely Texas can find a way to win.
Texas Longhorns C Connor Robertson
Along with the struggling Texas OL, the interior OL has been particularly suspect. Connor Robertson is the leader of the OL at large but has struggled this season, particularly in pass protection. This weekend, Marquis Gracial and Jalen Marshall are capable of dominating this game. Robertson will have to put together a solid performance, giving Manning room to work in the pocket. If he and the OL struggles, it’s possible we could see a change somewhere, particularly on the interior.
Texas Longhorns DL Justus Terry
Walking into this weekend, there is one thing the defense has to do: set a strong edge. Missouri is one of the best wide zone/outside run football teams in the sport. The teams that have been able to slow them down have not allowed Roberts to get to the outside on those plays. To me, whether Colin Simmons plays or not, Justus Terry could be a part of that answer. He collected his first career sack last week and played in the interior and outside. I could see Muschamp employing Terry’s physicality and size, especially on early downs, to pin in the Missouri run game.
Texas Longhorns LB Rasheem Biles
One of the biggest developments during Colin Simmons’ absence has been Rasheem Biles emergence as a pass rusher. In this game, allowing Austin Simmons time in the pocket is not an option. He’s a very capable passer and, if given time, can have a strong day against any defense in the country. However, Biles and company could force him out of the pocket, where he has been slightly less consistent. Keeping Austin Simmons off balance is a must for the Texas defense and Biles will be a large portion of that plan.
Texas Longhorns S Derek Williams Jr.
Considering how well every defender for Texas has played this season, Williams Jr. has been overshadowed. The redshirt junior has returned to his freshman form, becoming one of the best tacklers on the team. He’s seemingly flirted with a big play the last few weeks and could be in for a true breakout here. Not to mention, there will be times when Roberts breaks through to the second level, meaning Williams is the final chance to avoid a game-changing explosive. I wouldn’t be surprised if we were talking about Williams as the x-factor for the Texas defense in this one.
Contact/Follow us @LonghornsWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas news, notes and opinions. Follow Tommy on X: @bresee_thomas.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Longhorns to watch this weekend vs. Missouri: Wingo, Terry, Biles
