5 Takeaways From Texas Football Loss to West Virginia

While the end result was disappointing, there were positives to take away from this game for Texas. One of the biggest may be the emergence of true freshman Malcolm Roach at the Fox position. While his talent and potential was unquestioned, watching him put it together on the field is a sight to see.

Roach, of course, was delayed in joining the Texas football team this summer as he cleared up some eligibility concerns with the NCAA. His late start coupled with the depth at linebacker made many believe that Roach could be redshirted this season. Roach’s playmaking ability, however, made that option a non-starter as he has seen his role grow each week.

Against West Virginia, Roach posted season-highs in tackles (7) and tackles for loss (3.0) while recording his third sack of the season. He was a physical presence off the edge that helped the Texas defense set the tone in the second half. Roach stepped up when the Horns needed him after Malik Jefferson left the game with a head injury in the first half. While Roach and Jefferson don’t play the same position, of course, Texas needed someone to step up and make plays. Roach answered that call in Jefferson’s absence.

Moving forward, Texas will need Roach’s playmaking off the edge to finish this season strong. Putting the best players on the field has always been the mantra of Strong and Roach is proving he has a place in this defense.