Texas Football: 10 Key Longhorn Seniors
Oct 11, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns running back Jonathan Gray (32) runs with the ball against the Oklahoma Sooners during the Red River showdown at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
- Jonathan Gray
Last year Gray was still recovering from an Achilles injury and you could tell early on he wasn’t 100 percent. He also had to split time with Malcolm Brown.
This year Gray should get a majority of the carries. The question is: will there be running lanes for the speedy back?
Gray doesn’t do his best work running up the middle; he simply isn’t built to withstand the pounding one gets from taking on defensive tackles. He will need to use his speed to bounce outside or run off one of the tackles where he will fare better against linebackers and defensive backs.
Because Texas lacks experience at the running back position don’t be surprised to see Gray get 20-25 touches a game. More touches means more game-breaking opportunities. It also increases the injury risk so he will need to be smart about preserving his body and not taking any unnecessary hits.
The offense will flow through Gray this season. The senior needs to seize the day and put the team on his shoulders.