Texas football is back after a week off as they begin their SEC conference schedule on the road in Gainesville, Florida, against the Gators. After taking on several small schools during the non-conference schedule, other than Ohio State, the Longhorns will be better prepared for the increased difficulty of the opponent on Saturday afternoon.
Let's examine four storylines heading into this weekend's matchup on Saturday.
1. Quarterback showdown
One of the bigger storylines heading into this weekend is that Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway will be starting against the Longhorns following his injury. This is a huge battle amongst two young SEC quarterbacks who undoubtedly have the potential to play at the NFL level. One of the issues with Lagway's development this season is the lack of reps and a slow start.
Whether this could be the pivotal difference in the matchup this weekend is yet to be seen, but the Longhorns need to be ready in case Lagway has a massive game.
2. Arch's swagger
The Longhorns can't afford the introverted version of Manning this weekend. A great example of this is how he carried himself against Ohio State in week 1. He was really timid, and you could tell that he was a little scared of how quickly the Buckeyes blitzed him. The Florida Gators aren't going to give him until five Mississippi before blitzing him, and Manning should be ready to take off early on.
If the Longhorns get the loose version of Manning this weekend, it could be a blowout in Gainesville.
3. Quintrevion Wisner
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian mentioned Quintrevion Wisner's availability this week.
From what he said to the press, it seems like his availability is 50-50 for Saturday afternoon. That is excellent news because the Longhorns could really use his ability to run the ball downhill against the Gators. Nothing against what C.J. Baxter and Jerrick Gibson have done in his absence, but having Wisner in Gainesville would give the Longhorns momentum.
4. Gators' experience
One thing the Florida Gators have going for them in this weekend's matchup is their roster experience. Fifteen of their players have returned from last season and have built the framework for their roster this year.
I'm worried that the Gators' experienced roster could lead to an upset. You know what they always say: the quietest teams are the most dangerous to play against. Florida has that aura heading into the matchup.