Texas Football: Herman does not have to ask “Where’s the Beef?” with Longhorns

In every cliché, there is a kernel of truth. The game of football is littered with such clichés and first-year Texas Football head coach Tom Herman – already the darling of Austin – hopes one of these tropes, in particular, holds true.

To wit: you win games in the trenches.

In taking over the rebuilding job at the University of Texas, one area that Herman did not have to concern himself with in the immediate future was his offensive line.

In particular, Coach Herman has an offensive line with four returning starters. This includes two key pieces: tackle Connor Williams and center Zach Shackelford.

Both were key cogs in the Longhorns offense in 2016, especially with the running game that saw D’Onta Foreman make a run for the history books.

Offensive Line the Strength of Texas Football?

Connor Williams, the big bookend left tackle, has drawn comparisons to elite talent, namely Cleveland Browns All-Pro Joe Thomas. It is not farfetched that Williams could go down as one of – if not the – greatest offensive lineman in Longhorns history.

“[Connor Williams] is the anchor of the offensive line,” Herman boldly declared in an interview with the Austin American-Statesman back in April.

Since earning the starting tackle job, the big junior from Coppell has accumulated accolades and longing stares from NFL scouts.

“Williams has grown into his massive frame during his two seasons at Texas while retaining quickness and athleticism,” said the AP’s Ralph D. Russo analyzing 2018 NFL Draft prospects.

He was named an All-American last season and has earned preseason All-Big 12 honors. A semifinalist for last year’s Outland Trophy, Williams has already been added to the preseason Maxwell watch list.

While flying somewhat more under the radar compared to his line mate, sophomore starting center Zach Shackelford has those in the know equally excited about the possibility of his play. Despite missing time this spring with ankle surgery, Shackelford has been named the starting center.

Tom Herman can Thank “Strong” Predecessor for O-Line

While now anathema in certain parts of the Lone Star State, a certain University of South Florida head coach was a “strong” reason for Shackelford’s recruitment to Texas and his development into a starter.

“You just love his overall work ethic,” said he who shall not be named. “He is just on a mission because he wants to prove that he is an outstanding player and deserves to be where he is.”

Earning freshman All-American honors, Shackelford started nine games for the Horns last season and has already been named to the 2017 Rimington Trophy watch list for the nation’s best center.

Next: Tom Herman Declares Losing Not Acceptable

Shockingly, the Longhorns have not had an offensive lineman drafted into the NFL since 2008. With Connor Williams and Zach Shackelford on the roster, though, that trend is almost guaranteed to be broken in the near future under Tom Herman.

Follow Hook ‘Em Headlines contributor Eric Moreno on Twitter @EricMoreno6477.