Five Texas Longhorns Veterans to Watch in the Fall

Dec 29, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Tyrone Swoopes (18) during the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the 2014 Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Sedrick Flowers, senior guard

The Texas offensive line was much-maligned in 2014 for its poor run-blocking and pass protection. The loss of center Dominic Espinosa in the season opener really hurt the team chemistry and everything was in flux the rest of the year.

Flowers was one of the more consistent lineman. I won’t say he was outstanding, but he played well enough to stay on the field. He started all 13 games at guard. No other lineman started that many games at the same position.

This year the line has vital experience under its belt. This is important because the left tackle position is up for grabs. Junior college transfer Brandon Hodges or freshman Connor Williams may end up getting the starting nod. Having a veteran presence to lean on will be huge for whichever player earns the starting nod. Flowers can be that steady rock a nervous tackle can count on.

The quarterbacks and running backs will be counting on Flowers as well. If the offense is going to have any success this season, it will need to run the ball. Jonathan Gray and company would love to be able to consistently run off the left side through holes created by Flowers. The senior will need to step up his play this fall.