Texas Football: 3 ways Longhorns can beat upset minded Oklahoma State
By Shane Black
3. Sam Ehlinger must be fully healthy
Much of Texas’ success this season has been directly correlated with the phenomenal play of quarterback Sam Ehlinger. Ehlinger is averaging 255 yards through the air and 38 yards on the ground per game this season. He has accounted for 17 total touchdowns and just three turnovers.
On October 13th against the Baylor Bears Ehlinger suffered a shoulder injury to his throwing shoulder that put him on the sideline for the rest of the afternoon. It was later reported by Anwar Richardson that Ehlinger suffered a grade one AC joint sprain. He is questionable for Saturday’s game against Oklahoma State, but reports from head coach Tom Herman say that Ehlinger has been “progressing”.
Texas football coach Tom Herman said Sam Ehlinger fully participated in practice this week and is expected to start against Oklahoma State, barring any setbacks.
— Anwar Richardson (@AnwarRichardson) October 25, 2018
Ehlinger threw in full-pads for the first time on Tuesday. He was announced to be the starter on Oct. 25.
Though Shane Buechele is a serviceable backup quarterback, this team will only go as far as the usual starter takes them. Ehlinger is a much more dynamic quarterback and adds a whole different dimension to the rushing attack. Ehlinger has been the heartbeat of this team, on and off the field. You can see how much confidence he instills in the 10 guys around him when he commands the huddle. Ehlinger has both the tangibles and intangibles you want in your quarterback.
A night game in Stillwater is no joke. Ehlinger has proved time and time again this season that he can win big games. He steps up when it matters most.
Though Buechele has the capability to lead this team to a win over Oklahoma State, you have to believe the fan base and locker room feel much more comfortable with Ehlinger at the helm.