Nov 15, 2014; Stillwater, OK, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Tyrone Swoopes (18) looks down the field to pass against the Oklahoma State Cowboys during the first half at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
In his first season at Texas, Charlie Strong showed why he has always been regarded as a premier defensive coach.
Bringing a tough, physical attitude to the table, the Longhorns led the Big 12 in total defense by allowing 357.1 yards per game.
But defensive excellence couldn't stop Texas from finishing 6-7. With an offense that ranked ninth in the Big 12 with 21.4 points per game, the Longhorns had trouble keeping pace with other high-powered teams.
The Longhorns are counting on junior quarterback Tyrone Swoopes to improve dramatically to give the offense a lift. If he can't do the job, redshirt freshman Jerrod Heard will get a shot.
"Both of those guys are very competitive, but everyone around them needs to play well also," Strong said. "It's all about them managing the offense, putting us in position where we can move the football and not turning the ball over and having dumb plays or dumb mistakes."
Strong doesn't want either quarterback to go into the season thinking he has to carry the offense. The Longhorns need veterans like running back Johnathan Gray and receiver Marcus Johnson to come through with big years.
"We need to find playmakers at wide receiver," Strong said. "You've got J. Gray here and we need him to have a big year. We need the offensive line to protect the quarterback and then you will have a chance."
(h/t Waco Tribune)
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