3 struggling Texas football players that must step up in Big 12 play

Xavier Worthy, WR

The most disappointing player to include on this list among the key Longhorns that must have a good run in Big 12 play is star sophomore wide receiver Xavier Worthy.

I’m definitely not saying that the start to the season for Worthy was completely devoid of any impact or big-time plays. There were certainly some noteworthy plays from Worthy in the last three weeks.

But the fact of the matter is that we expect Worthy to be one of the very best wide receivers in the entire country. He was the best freshman wide receiver in college football last season, and he still has the opportunity to take his game to the next level this fall.

Last season, Worthy averaged a little more than five catches per game for 82 receiving yards and one touchdown. Through three games this season, Worthy has averaged a little less than four catches per game for 54 receiving yards, and he has yet to get his first touchdown of the season.

There were definitely some big opportunities for Worthy to get that elusive first touchdown of the season while adding to the receiving yard tally. That key drop in the back of the end zone against Alabama comes to mind. And while Worthy didn’t have a perfect shot at the ball, there was a throw that junior quarterback Hudson Card at least gave him a chance to get in the win over UTSA this weekend.

We should also mention that Worthy has the sixth-best offensive grade so far this season among Texas receivers and tight ends. Worthy has struggled in some areas to make the impact that we all know he can for the Longhorns. This might just be a slow start, but Texas needs Worthy to be one of the best playmakers in this conference if this offense wants to make some noise in Big 12 play.