Texas Football: 5 Things To Improve vs Cal
By Tyler Brett
Cal will bring the nation’s No. 2 passing attack into this matchup. The best way for Texas to win this game is to shut that offense down by creating turnovers in the passing game.
Turnovers in general have been hard to come by for Texas in the first two games. So far, the Horns have created just one turnover on the season, a strip against UTEP on a catch and run down the field. They have zero interceptions so far this year and have yet to create turnovers with their pass rush via the strip sack.
This week, creating those quick change opportunities for the offense will be huge. Davis Webb has been a quick study at Cal and is averaging 481.5 yards per game through the air this season. When the Bears get rolling, their passing attack is formidable and can carve up defenses in a hurry. Texas needs to disrupt Webb’s rhythm by getting an interception or two (Webb has three in two games), and knocking the ball loose in the pass rush.
Last year, Texas didn’t do this and Cal carved them up. Jared Goff completed 27 of 38 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns. They failed to snag an interception in that game, though they did force two fumbles.
Shaking Webb’s confidence early with pressure and turnovers could be the deciding factor for Texas. If they rattle him, the Horns can dominate. If he settles into a rhythm, it will be a long day for this defense.
Next: 3. Interior Run Defense