Texas Football: 3 key injured Longhorns players heading into OU game

Cole Hutson, IOL

The pre-existing injury the Longhorns are still dealing with along the offensive line is an ailment sophomore interior offensive lineman Cole Hutson suffered during the Week 3 win over Wyoming. Hutson suffered an injury after taking just seven offensive snaps in the Sep. 16 matchup against the Cowboys.

The initial timeline for Hutson’s return after suffering that Week 3 injury was three to four weeks. He had the same recovery timeline as sophomore defensive lineman/edge rusher Kris Ross, who was also knocked out with an injury in the Wyoming game on Sep. 16.

During a press conference last week, Sark provided a brief update on Huston’s injury. He said he was “pleased” with Hutson’s progress but didn’t provide an updated timetable for his return to practice or a particular game. But the original three to four-week timetable Sark stated for Hutson’s return after the Wyoming game probably puts him on a post-bye week timeline.

Four weeks after the Wyoming game would mark a return for Hutson coming out of the Oct. 14 bye week. The next game after the bye week is against the Houston Cougars on the road on Oct. 21.

In his absence, fellow sophomore interior offensive lineman DJ Campbell has taken the starting reps at right guard for Hutson. Campbell has performed well in the last two weeks, taking the starting reps at right guard. He hasn’t allowed any sacks or quarterback hits in over 70 pass-blocking snaps against Kansas and Baylor to start Big 12 play.