Michael Taaffe earns SEC Defensive Player of the Week after his INT versus Vanderbilt

While the Texas offense looked slightly lackluster against the Vanderbilt Commodores in their Week 9 matchup, the Longhorns defensive unit looked as impressive as ever. One player in particular stood out amongst the rest as Texas' defense dominated its side of the ball.

Michael Taaffe, a junior defensive back for Texas, shined brightly against the Commodores and earned conference honors because of his impressive performance.

Against Vanderbilt, Taaffe accounted for 6 of the Longhorns' 59 tackles, earning 3 solo tackles in the matchup. He also earned pass deflection and picked off Commodore quarterback Diego Pavia as Texas held its opponent to 155 passing yards and 114 yards on the ground.

Already this season, Taaffe has earned 39 total tackles, just nine tackles shy of his career-best in a single season. He has produced 4 pass deflections, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception so far this year.

This season is Taaffe's second year as a starter but he played in 13 of Texas' games in 2022 and earned one start against the Kansas Jayhawks. During Taaffe's sophomore season, he earned 48 total tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 pass deflections.

Taaffe began his career for the Longhorns as a walk-on and has transformed into a leader amongst his teammates.

Alongside Taaffe for the SEC Defensive Play of Week 9 was Suntarine Perkins, a sophomore linebacker for the Ole Miss Rebels. The Rebels played Oklahoma and Perkins amassed 11 total tackles and 4 sacks against the Sooners.

Taaffe and the Longhorns have a bye in Week 10 but return home to host the Florida Gators in Week 11. Hopefully Taaffe, and the rest of the Texas defense, can continue to improve amongst their SEC opponents.

Read more: