Five Things to Watch For in Longhorns Spring Game

Sep 13, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns offensive coordinator Joe Wickline on the sidelines during the game against the UCLA Bruins at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

2. Any signs of improvement on the offensive line?

Joe Wickline had the most difficult job of any other coach on the staff last season and this off-season. After trying to patch together an offensive line riddled with injuries and youth last year, he’s finally working with a group that has some experience under their belts.

Widely considered to be the best OL coach in college football, it will be interesting to see what Wickline has done with this group.

Practice reports indicate that he’s still moving people around, trying to find the best combination. According to the most experienced lineman, Sedrick Flowers, they are “ten times better than last season,” due primarily to the fact that the line is much deeper now.

Keep an eye on true freshman OL Connor Williams, who has really turned some heads this spring and could have an early impact in the trenches. Fellow OL early enrollee Garrett Thomas has gotten some praise as well.

One could argue that the success of this season hinges entirely on whether or not the offensive line shows drastic improvement.

Wickline himself, who isn’t one to give any sort of praise whatsoever, told them, “Ya’ll are doing good, but you still suck.”

Hmm…I think that’s a compliment, but I’m not sure. I guess we’ll see on Saturday.

To advance to the next slide, click the black bar below.

Next: What about special teams?