Texas Football: 5 thoughts heading into Big 12 Title Game

4. Status of Sam Ehlinger’s recovery

Texas football might’ve claimed a larger victory over the Jayhawks if the passing game was more effective, like it generally was this fall. Sophomore quarterback Sam Ehlinger is having a major breakthrough this year, but his numbers against Kansas reflected a major step back in a game that should’ve been easy.

In that seven-point victory over the Jayhawks, Ehlinger posted only 154 passing yards and two touchdowns, with two interceptions. Ehlinger did get in the end zone once on the ground, bringing his rushing touchdown total to 11. This performance was the lowest total of passing yards for him on the season while playing in a full game.

It’s odd that the two worst games of the year for Ehlinger came in the first and last games of the regular season. At least the Horns escaped Lawrence, KS, with a victory this time. Going through something like this program did back in 2016 would’ve been detrimental to the outlook next year and the light in which the fans view Herman.

It didn’t seem like Ehlinger hurt his shoulder sprain anymore than it already was after the win over the Iowa State Cyclones. Ehlinger had to exit from two games this season from the same shoulder sprain to his throwing arm. After he injured it the first time, it didn’t look to hamper him much. It seemed like he was held back a lot more by this injury against Kansas.