Texas Longhorns News: Articleshttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/page/61/?d=1Texas Longhorns News: ArticlesenGrading the Class (Using The Pipeline Methodology)https://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/grading-the-class-using-the-pipeline-methodology-r161/
In my years following recruiting, I’ve seen top five classes not actually “fit” the needs of the program, either immediately or over the long haul.

Texas has done that a few times in my career. The Horns would need more guys on offensive line yet come up short. Or perhaps they needed more guys in the secondary and it just didn’t get addressed as well as it could have.

It’s typical, even for the very best classes, to have one or two positions that perhaps could have been better filled, or, worse, went completely unaddressed.

Additionally, with the proliferation of the transfer portal, I no longer think simply grading a recruiting class for its overall composition of players does the topic complete justice. Instead, I think we need to look more at whether or not a recruiting class successfully addresses the long-term needs of the program -- the pipeline of talent entering the program.

With all of that in mind, here’s my take on the 2024 Texas recruiting class, starting with the offense first, and whether or not the Horns adequately addressed their talent needs, both in term of quality and team needs.

Quarterback

Trey Owens

I'm a big believer in Owens'. I'm not sure whether he will ever be a top-line starter because of potential mobility issues. But his arm strength and accuracy are high-level - his arm is every bit as talented as both Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning. He will not look out of place in the Texas QB room. Despite his relatively lower national rating by others, I'm not giving a QB who I think will play pro ball lower than a grade in the A range.

Player Grade: A-

Did Texas fill pipeline at the position?

Unquestionably, yes. This is the exact type of developmental quarterback Sark needed to follow Manning. Owens possesses the skills that are hardest to coach - the arm talent - but now he will need to work on his understanding of the offense and learning how to improve his maneuverability in the pocket, and he has ample time to do so.

Pipeline Grade: A+

 

Running Back

Christian Clark, Jerrick Gibson

I don't understand how Clark wasn't rated higher by national experts. Actually, I do have an inkling about it, I just don't agree with their reasoning. Clark's able to make people miss in the hole, is extremely tough and does not shy from contact. When Sark said in his signing day presser that Clark reminded him of Bijan Robinson, there's a reason the head coach went out on that limb. As for Gibson, he's a mix of brute size - he's truly going to be a 230-pound runner before he is finished in college - along with a strong feel for the game and workman-like attitude. Both of these guys are possible future pros. Clark actually reminds me of Tashard Choice as a running back.

Player Grade: A-

Did Texas fill the need at the position?

Easily, so much so that some might think the talent in the room is almost gratuitous. But Sark looks like he's preparing to utilize backs, like they do in the NFL, with multiple ball carriers who have multiple skill sets. For example, the differences between CJ Baxter and Jaydon Blue are very evident, yet Sark seemed determined to utilize both down the stretch when Jonathon Brooks was injured. If that's Sark's vision for the future - like he did with Reggie Bush and Lendale White at USC - then maybe the number of RBs isn't as gratuitous as it might otherwise seem.

Pipeline Grade: A+

 

Wide Receiver

Ryan Wingo, Aaron Butler, Parker Livingstone, Freddie Dubose Jr.

The only other receiver prospect in the same category as Wingo in the past 10 years is Xavier Worthy. Wingo is a legit five star, with legit speed, size, athleticism and plus ball skills. He's actually a better prospect than Worthy was IMO. Outside of Wingo, I'm not sure there is a likely No. 1 receiver in this group. Livingstone would be my next pick, but his injury history is now a thing we have to watch for. Dubose remained limited this year as well, also coming off of a knee injury. Butler is a bit of a wildcard for me. Some on the West Coast preferred him as a cornerback but he wants to play WR. I could see him challenging both Ryan Niblett and Deandre Moore for playing time in the slot.

Player Grade: B+

Did Texas fill the pipeline at the position?

I think the jury is out. Like I said, I think Wingo is a definite No. 1. I like the promise of Livingstone. The versatility of Butler is intriguing. And Dubose is a bit of a lottery ticket if he properly heals from his injury.

Pipeline Grade: B

 

Tight End

Jordan Washington

There is no player in this class that has a clearer path to success ahead of them. Washington, if he can continue to develop his body and his skills, is the dual-threat tight end that Texas and Sarkisian clearly covet. But we're also talking about someone who has been playing multiple sports most of his life, just stopping basketball a season ago. That means his body likely has farther to go in its development. But a year from now? I like Washington a lot. A whole lot. He could be the steal of the class IMO.

Player Grade: A

Did Texas fill the pipeline at the position?

Yes. My only question, should Texas have even taken another tight end prospect? Perhaps. But the Horns opted to address the short-term need in the portal, in part because of exactly what Washington might bring to the table long-term.

Pipeline Grade: B+

 

Offensive Line

Daniel Cruz, Brandon Baker, Nate Kibble

Player Grade: A

Baker is a future starter and likely a future pro. It may not be this year or even next yearn when he contributes to the Horns, but so long as he stays healthy, he is as sure a bet to play pro football as any signee in this class. Cruz is an anomaly of sorts because he's such a menace as a run blocker - his natural strength is off the charts. He's also a fairly cerebral player. The only question surrounding his play will be pass blocking. Kibble's body type and arm length are ideal and Atascocita offensive lineman have had a really good history of turning out (Sam Cosmi, Kenyon Green, Kam Dewberry). Pass blocking looks like it will come natural to him.

Did Texas fill the pipeline at the position?

Given the Horns signed 11 OLs in the previous two classes, we knew this would be a lower year on numbers. Overall, I think Texas did a nice job of spreading out the numbers - one true tackle, one true guard and one combo center/guard. Could Texas have used another blue chip prospect at either guard or tackle? Sure. But, with this class, Kyle Flood continues to move the OL in the right direction - with size, athleticism and talent.

Pipeline Grade: B

]]>161Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:44:36 +0000My Personal Rankings of the 2024 Classhttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/my-personal-rankings-of-the-2024-class-r160/ Three full classes are in the books now for Steve Sarkisian as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns. A top six finish continues the trend of elite recruiting here for the Longhorns as well, in which Texas went out of state a bit more this season to get the core of their class.

This is a bit of a new feature for most of the audience here, however I have done this for the past four seasons with the predictions being anywhere from spot on to couldn’t be further off. I will post the results of previous classes in the comments, dating back to 2020. 

Without further ado, let’s dive into the categories.

I divide my rankings into four categories. The boundaries for each category are used quite loosely, however I take into account talent, instant impact ability, the level of excitement around each player's addition to the program and how they project for the duration of their career. Historically, offensive linemen have received the short end of the stick in past rankings, with their longer path to the field than other positions.

  • 1. Instant impact with program changing talent.
  • 2. Early contributor
  • 3. Likely to be a starter in career.
  • 4. Will take time to develop. Potential to be starter late in career.

I am heavier in tiers two and three this year because of the returning contributors Texas is expecting in 2024, plus the number of big time additions out of the portal. This is not a bad thing in the slightest. This is also the heaviest group of tier four players I have had since doing these rankings, a sign of tremendous health in the depth department currently on roster.

Tier 1

EDGE Colin Simmons – This is a no-brainer. The highest rated prospect in the 2024 class comes at a position Texas has not had a ton of national success at in previous years. Simmons has already added weight to his 6-foot-3 frame and has proven to carry weight at any level. Texas has added to their defensive end room this offseason, but Simmons will find the rotation and be a three year contributor in the fall and beyond. 

S Xavier Filsaime – A borderline five-star safety is joining a room that saw a lot of turnover this offseason. Filsaime has the perfect frame to compete right away at the college level. He has the track speed necessary for the SEC and it is clear Texas enjoys rolling out several safeties. Filsaime has the makings to me of a future all-conference defensive back.

WR Ryan Wingo – Probably the prospect in this class I am most excited for during his time at Texas. At 6-feet-2-inches, it is rare to find a receiver with the level of acceleration and body control of Wingo. Texas added several pieces in the WR room this offseason, however Wingo has as high a ceiling of anyone in a Texas jersey. How soon will we see him unleashed? I'm not sure. But the 2025 and 2026 seasons alone will be enough to justify this ranking.

Tier 2

OT Brandon Baker – A five-star offensive lineman that doesn't need to be thrown into the fire right away? Yessir, sign me all the way up! Baker is an elite tackle prospect with superb length and solid athleticism. Above anything, I am excited Baker will get to develop for a couple a bit. Potential day two pick already without any work done by Kyle Flood.

CB Kobe Black – For Kobe Black to be receiving as high of praise already even without any true offseason weight training, his ceiling will only continue to raise for me. Black has the potential to play anywhere in the secondary, though I see his best fit at cornerback. Really like what he brings to the table.

RB Christian Clark – Probably a ranking that I am a bit too high on right now and I will be interested to see how this one ages. But Christian Clark to me is the full package at the running back position. He can run, he can catch, he can cut, he can juke. Basically, anything that you ask him to do with the ball in his hands, Clark will be able to do. After 2024, I envision Clark being in the RB2 conversation with his junior year seeing a jump to the true bell cow for Texas.

C Daniel Cruz – I love offensive linemen with mean streaks and Cruz has exactly that. He can flip a switch and absolutely abuse defensive linemen in front of him. I love that Cruz made the jump inside to the interior to play center for his senior season and believe he will put up a very large fight for the center spot with Connor Robertson and perhaps Cole Hutson in 2025.

WR Aaron Butler – I thought about punching him in under tier three, but I re-watched the tape again this morning and just couldn't get myself to justify it. Butler fits exactly what Sarkisian targeted out of the portal and has been attempting to add to this lineup. The biggest question for Butler is the path to the field, but the close-space acceleration and burst with the ball are too impressive to ignore.

EDGE Zina Umeozulu – In August, this ranking would have been a bit lower. But credit to Zina for putting the pieces together while continuing to add to his frame. Umeozulu will step onto campus at 6-foot-5 and a hair over 240 pounds. He has the length and the athleticism to be a special player. Question is will he be able to unlock that early and maintain consistency throughout.

Tier 3

RB Jerrick Gibson – The first name in this tier is the former IMG Academy running back. Gibson is built like a truck and is going to hold 220 pounds easily during his time on campus. My question with Gibson is whether or not he can differentiate himself enough to get on the field early. Eventually, Gibson will be more than a fine player, but early on I expect the road to the field to be a tough one with the backs Texas has on campus.

DL Alex January – I juggled with January being up in tier two, but I still expect the Longhorn staff to add a piece to the defensive line room in the spring. January, physically, is a massive prospect and Texas needs just that on the interior. The multi-sport background will help with the athleticism, I like the upside long term.

WR Parker Livingstone – Perhaps no writer on the Texas beat is as high on Parker Livingstone as I am. In a year where Texas does not add four pass catchers from the portal, he is absolutely a tier two prospect. It is also extremely unfortunate that Texas fans were unable to watch Livingstone during his senior season. This kid can ball amongst the best in the state and has enough speed to get on the field with that 6-foot-4 frame of his.

CB Santana Wilson – Anytime you can add a four-star prospect with the NFL pedigree of that of a former NFL All-Pro, you do it, Wilson is a top notch prospect with versatility and production all across the field while in high school. My question is how quickly he can crack the rotation, but Wilson has great length and ball skills. Wilson played a ton of boundary corner in HS and I would not be surprised to see him there to start the college days.

DB Jordon Johnson-Rubell – Going on a little run of defensive backs here. JJR undoubtedly will come to campus with as high a football IQ of anyone in the class. Talking with Johnson-Rubell in Orlando gave me a different outlook on his career outlook. 

DB Wardell Mack – Listen, in a class this stacked with defensive backs, someone has to come in the final spot amongst the bunch. I am more than anticipating to be wrong here, especially when you consider the push made by Corey Raymond at Florida to get Mack into the class specifically. Mack is a stud. He plays the ball very well and is incredibly quick to coming down field to make a play. If there is one pick I am expecting to be wrong on, it is Mack.

LB Ty'Anthony Smith – One of the hardest working prospects you will find in this class. Smith will have a ways to go with his body to add the necessary weight for the middle of a defense in the SEC, however I suspect he gets there by year three. The Longhorns have a talented LB group at the moment, though being the only linebacker in the class is going to help in the long run.

Tier 4

QB Trey Owens – I am a huge fan of Trey Owens. He took major strides on the field his senior season and was one of the top performers in San Antonio for the All American Bowl. Unfortunately for Owens, he has a tough path to the field with Ewers returning in 2024 and Arch Manning set to take the reigns the following years. Regardless, this is the quality of prospect Sarkisian turns into a stud in three years time.

OL Nate Kibble – Lengthy wingspan and road grader in the run game. That's what Nate Kibble brings to the table. There will be a transition period as he heads inside to guard, but Kyle Flood liked what he saw very early on and stayed on the former Atascocita lineman. Similarly to several others, path to the field is a bit of an issue at the moment.

TE Jordan Washington – Here is the deal: I have a soft spot for converted basketball players at the tight end position. With Washington, he can stretch the field vertically and has a willingness to put his nose in the trenches. But we saw a long journey from JT Sanders to get to the field and he was most advanced physically than Washington. I like the upside, but it will take a bit.

WR Freddie Dubose – An ACL injury cut short his junior season, though Dubose returned to the field and helped lead Smithson Valley to a state title game appearance this past fall. I am a bit on the 'I need to see it' side for Dubose when it comes to getting fully healthy with the knee. He has the top-end speed that will compete with anyone on the roster, but again, I need to see it first.

DL Melvin Hills – Hills won't have the luxury of a spring season with the Texas program which does make a difference for trench players. There is versatility here that will allow Hills to make a jump from inside to outside, but in the long run, he is best suited for the interior at a 3-tech spot. Let's see how Kenny Baker is able to mold the former Louisiana standout.

]]>160Wed, 07 Feb 2024 15:36:58 +0000Texas three straight top 6 ranked classes: By the numbers (7:27 a.m. CST)https://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/texas-three-straight-top-6-ranked-classes-by-the-numbers-727-am-cst-r159/ The Texas Longhorns will end the February signing period with a third straight top 6 ranked class in the recruiting industry. The Longhorns inked the No. 5 ranked class in 2022, No. 3 in 2023 and No. 6 in the 2024 cycle. 

Texas fans have seen plenty of changes on the recruiting trail under Steve Sarkisian and staff ahead of the move to the SEC. There has been a concerted effort to recruit nationally, with a focus on the Southeast Region and the West Coast. 

OnTexasFootball breaks down the trio of top 6 classes by the states, regions of Texas and positions. 

Prospects Signed (75)

2022 Class - 28
2023 Class - 25
2024 Class - 22

Prospects from in state - 47 (62.7%) 
Prospects from out of state - 28 (37.3%)

In state breakdown by region 

DFW - 26 (55.3%)
CenTexas - 9 (19.1%)
Greater Houston - 7 (14.9%)
Golden Triangle/SE - 2
East Texas - 1
San Antonio/South Texas - 1
West Texas/Panhandle - 1

States Texas has signed a prospect the last three classes

Texas - 47
California - 6 (signed two prospects in each of last three classes)
Louisiana - 6 (signed a prospect in all three classes)
Florida - 5 
Arizona - 4
Alabama - 1
Hawaii - 1
Mississippi - 1 
Missouri - 1
New Jersey - 1
Utah - 1
Washington - 1

High schools with two or more signed in last three classes

Duncanville and Austin Westlake - 3

Mater Dei (Calif.), IMG Academy (Fla.), South Oak Cliff, DeSoto, Denton Ryan, Waco Connally, Allen, Isadore Newman (La.) - 2

The 75 signees have come from 63 high schools, all told. 

DFW High Schools Texas has signed a prospect (20)

Duncanville
DeSoto
South Oak Cliff
Red Oak
Arlington Bowie
Arlington Martin
Arlington Seguin
Grand Prairie
Mansfield Timberview
North Crowley
Richland High
Aledo
Allen
McKinney High
Little Elm
Denton Ryan
Lovejoy
Melissa
Frisco High
Frisco Wakeland 

Prospects signed by position the last three classes

Quarterback - 3 (one each class)
Running back - 5
Wide receiver - 8
Tight end - 3
Offensive line - 15
Defensive line - 7
EDGE - 8
Linebacker - 7
Defensive back - 14
Athlete - 2
Kicker - 1
Punter - 1
Long snapper - 1  

Number of prospects that have hit the portal

2022 class - 8 

 

 

 

]]>159Wed, 07 Feb 2024 13:26:51 +0000Signing Day: OnTexasFootball 2024 Class Rankings (Wednesday 5:44 a.m. CST)https://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/signing-day-ontexasfootball-2024-class-rankings-wednesday-544-am-cst-r158/ Signing Day: OnTexasFootball 2024 Class Rankings

Steve Sarkisian will step to the mic around 11 a.m. central today to talk at length about the 2024 recruiting class. 

The class of 22 is expected to finish as the No. 6 ranked class trailing only Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State, Oregon and Miami. Texas’ 22 signees are are tied with Ohio State for the least among the top 6 classes. Georgia (28), Alabama (26), Oregon (27) and Miami (27) all signed at least four more prospects than the Longhorns. 

OnTexasFootball ranks the players in the class within some categories that will always impact Texas recruiting moving forward. 

OnTexasFootball final rankings for the class have two 5-stars, 16 4-stars and four 3-stars. 

OnTexasFootball 5-stars

Colin Simmons, EDGE, Duncanville (Texas) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 5-star
Simmons is by far the top edge rushing prospect the Longhorns have signed in the Steve Sarkisian era. Up to around 240 pounds, look for Simmons to settle around 250-255 over time with high-end twitch and bend. 

Ryan Wingo, WR, Saint Louis (Mo.) St. Louis University
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 5-star
If Wingo maximizes his talent, he has high-ceiling NFL potential. There are not many prospects at 6-1.5, 205-210 pounds that have the initial movement skills, twitch, vertical ability and body control like Wingo. AD Mitchell was a low 4-star coming out of high school, and is knocking on the door of being a first round selection. Wingo has even more upside. 

The SEC Flips

Xavier Filsaime, S, McKinney (Texas) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Filsaime is already turning heads in Austin. He’s will be physically ready to compete from day one. The McKinney staff left little doubt how self-motivated Filsaime was on a November visit to the school. Filsaime was the second of two Florida flips in the class. 

Wardell Mack, CB, Marrero (La.) John Ehret
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Mack is a name that has already been mentioned by OTF’s C.J. Vogel as impressing early on. Mack has very good arm length for his height to go with high-end ball skills. The first of two flips from Florida, Mack will be defensive back only focused for the first time as a player this spring. 

Tyanthony Smith, LB, Jasper (Texas) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
The Texas A&M flip needs some time to develop physically, but his football speed is tailor-made for the SEC. He also possesses a 79-inch wingspan at 6-1.5. A lot of upside to go with some of the same characteristics Jaylan Ford possesses around the game. 

IMG Academy duo

Jerrick Gibson, RB, Gainesville (Fla.) IMG Academy
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Of all the signees, Gibson headed to Austin with the body type most ready for Power 5 football. Gibson is a very compact 5-9.5 and 215’ish. Taking on a linebacker in the hole will not be an issue for the Sunshine State back. Tashard Choice went into Florida and beat out the in-state powers two years in a row for one of the best backs in the country. 

Jordon Johnson-Rubell, S, Fort Worth (Texas) IMG Academy
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
JJ-R has as good of instincts as any player in the class. What did the IMG Academy staff love most about him? Leadership, versatility to play in the box vs. the run and play the pass from hash to boundary. Talent maximization will not be in question. 

Going back to Cali

Brandon Baker, OT, Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Baker will begin his career at right tackle, but look for Texas to cross train him at both tackle spots. The same as Texas has done with Cameron Williams. Look for Baker to make big strength gains the next few months. 

Aaron Butler, WR, Calabasas (Calif.) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Butler was a highly enough thought of prospect in the cycle that he was committed to both USC and Deion Sanders at Colorado prior to signing with Texas. After the catch, Butler will be among the best at Texas. He’s got elite shiftiness with ball in hand.

Bijan Robinson’s home state

Christian Clark, RB, Phoenix (Az.) Mountain Pointe
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
How motivated is Clark to be a very good player? He did what few do in the state of Arizona - went through all the hoops to graduate high school early. Clark will be the most violent cutter between the tackles in the program from practice one this spring. 

Santana Wilson, CB, Scottsdale (Az.) Desert Mountain
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
The son of former NFL safety and current NFL executive Adrian Wilson is a rare May graduate in the class. He possesses good arm length at the position, and like Terrance Brooks will head to Texas having grown up with a former NFL safety to learn the game from. 

DFW area dominance continues
The Longhorns signed six players from the DFW area all told. That does not include Jordon Johnson-Rubell, who finished high school in the Sunshine State. 

Daniel Cruz, OC/IOL, North Richland Hills (Texas) Richland
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Cruz has everything Kyle Flood is looking for at center. Overcomes lack of ideal arm length with elite natural strength, quickness in movement skills and reactions, football intelligence, motor/effort and brings some of the toughness/nastiness on the field that Kasey Studdard did.

Zina Umeozulu, EDGE, Allen (Texas) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder had a strong Under Armour All-America week performance. His length and quickness combination makes for a high ceiling. If he pushes for early playing time with the experience in front of him, watch out. 

Alex January, DL, Duncanville (Texas) High
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
January had a tremendous senior season for the Panthers taking home District Defensive Player of the Year honors in an absolutely loaded district of talented defensive prospects. OTF’s C.J. Vogel has already heard some positives about January in the short time he’s been in Austin. Already on campus, January will have the opportunity to play his way into the rotation as a freshman. 

Parker Livingston, WR, Lucas (Texas) Lovejoy
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Livingstone had a tremendous season opener before suffering a season ending foot injury the following week. Has height, length, enough vertical speed, body control and strong hands. He will just need to have a little patience in year one. 

Trio from Houston 

Trey Owens, QB, Cypress (Texas) Cy-Fair
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Owens enrolled at Texas around 6-5 and 230 pounds. He showed improved movement skills in the pocket as a senior with the ability to make all the throws. Possesses very good trajectory and timing on vertical throws. He enrolled at Texas in a near perfect developmental timeline. 

Jordan Washington, TE, Houston (Texas) Langham Creek
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Washington got serious about football in the last couple of years. And that made him a nationally recruited prospect in short order. Washington should look fluid and athletic at 6-4 and 250 pounds in time. He has the ability to help stretch the field from the tight end position. 

Nate Kibble, IOL, Humble (Texas) Atascocita
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 3-star
Kibble possesses long arms for his height (likely 6-2.5). He’s a rare four-year starter at the 6A level in Texas on the offensive line. Matching physicality at the Power 5 level should not be an issue. 

Huge win in CenTex

Kobe Black, CB, Waco (Texas) Connally
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 4-star
Seeing Kobe Black at the Under Armour All-America practices, he hasn’t truly begun to scratch the surface physically. Black at 6-foot-2 and around 210 pounds down the line wouldn’t be a surprise. OnTexasFootball’s Rod Babers loves the patience of Black at the position. He will be one singular position focused for the first time this spring. 

One from San Antonio 

Freddie Dubose Jr., WR, Spring Branch (Texas) Smithson Valley
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 3-star
Make no mistake, Dubose is a high-end 4-star pure athlete if fully healthy. One college head coach that recruited him called him a “freak athlete”. If that comes out at Texas, he will out perform his OTF ranking. 

St. Thomas Aquinas represented

Michael Kern, P, Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas
OnTexasFootball Ranking: 3-star
If Jeff Banks chooses not to go to the portal this spring for a punter, that will tell Texas fans just how high he is on Kern’s ability to come in and handle duties as a freshman. 

Will he stay or go?
One prospect remains in a little limbo if he will remain in the class. That is OnTexasFootball 3-star and Lafayette (La.) Christian defensive lineman Melvin Hills. Hills spoke with new defensive line coach Kenny Baker last Friday, but had yet to speak with Steve Sarkisian as of Tuesday afternoon. 

Class breakdown by state
This breakdown is by where players graduated from high school. Jordon Johnson-Rubell is from Fort Worth, but graduated from IMG Academy in Florida. 

Texas - 12
Florida - 3
Louisiana - 2 
California - 2
Arizona - 2
Missouri - 1 

Class Breakdown by area in Texas
We will once again leave Jordon Johnson-Rubell out of this breakdown.

DFW - 6 
Greater Houston - 3
Golden Triangle/Southeast Texas - 1 
CenTex - 1
San Antonio/South Texas - 1 

]]>158Wed, 07 Feb 2024 11:44:23 +0000<![CDATA[Coffee & Football: Wednesday 02/07]]>https://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/coffee-football-wednesday-0207-r157/ Longhorns fans, this place to be at 8 AM CST is the On Texas Football YouTube Channel. Join us for some Coffee and Football, as @Bobby Burton, @CJ Vogel, @Gerry Hamilton and I discuss the latest in recruiting, team info and much more.  As usual, we will be taking your questions so post them here or in the chat! 

 

Today's Storylines:

Forty Acres Insider: February 6 (By Chris Del Conte)
https://texassports.com/news/2024/2/6/forty-acres-insider-february-6.aspx

Will the Texas Longhorns capitalize on their one-of-a-kind CFP advantage
https://www.gulflive.com/longhorns/2024/02/will-the-texas-longhorns-capitalize-on-their-one-of-a-kind-cfp-advantage.html

Texas ranks No. 2 in SEC for returning production after transfer adds
https://sports.yahoo.com/texas-ranks-no-2-sec-151147057.html

Texas Will 'Have a Shot Every Year' to Compete For Championships
https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/texas-longhorns-will-have-a-shot-every-year-to-compete-for-championships

Texas football should have a quiet national signing day after all its December signings
https://www.statesman.com/story/sports/college/longhorns/football/2024/02/06/texas-football-national-signing-day-2024-class-big-recruiting-haul-in-december-steve-sarkisian/72463443007/

No. 14 Iowa State holds off late Texas rally and earns 70-65 road victory
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2024/02/06/no-14-iowa-state-holds-off-late-texas-rally-and-earns-70-65-road-victory/72502928007/

Photo gallery: Iowa State men's basketball at Texas
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/picture-gallery/sports/college/iowa-state/cyclone-insider/2024/02/06/photos-pictures-iowa-state-basketball-vs-texas-on-longhorn-network/72493653007/

]]>157Wed, 07 Feb 2024 11:41:19 +0000Texas Names Harris GMhttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/texas-names-harris-gm-r156/ Texas announced the elevation of Brandon Harris to general manager and John Michael Jones to Director of Player Personnel.

 

]]>156Wed, 07 Feb 2024 02:14:27 +0000Livestream tonight at 7:15https://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/livestream-tonight-at-715-r155/ Join Erin Hogan, CJ Vogel and myself to talk about the Longhorns, recruiting and more!

https://youtube.com/live/ocTqXGqbPlk

 

]]>155Wed, 07 Feb 2024 01:07:24 +0000Four-star Zion Williams talks Steve Sarkisian and Kenny Bakerhttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/four-star-zion-williams-talks-steve-sarkisian-and-kenny-baker-r154/ Lufkin, Texas - Steve Sarkisian made stops at a number of schools in January to see top targets in the 2025 cycle. One of those stops was Lufkin High. 

OnTexasFootball 4-star defensive tackle Zion Williams has been a top target of the Longhorns on the defensive front for more than a year. 

Williams, who is 6-foot-4 and 320 pounds with an 80+inch wing span and a size 18 shoe, attended the Texas mauling of Texas Tech in November. At that time, it was then-defensive line coach Bo Davis who was in contact the most with Williams. 

That means January was the first time for Williams to have a meaningful conversation with Sarkisian. 

“Coach Sarkisian came through with Coach Blake (Gideon),” Williams told OnTexasFootball. “That was more just getting to know Coach Sark personally. We asked each other questions. A question I have learned to ask coaches during this recruiting process is, if I were to commit to this school right now at this exact time we’re talking, what would be the process to introduce me into the culture and the family. His answer was he was going to teach me the culture of Austin, which I didn’t know, and get me aquatinted with people around Austin and not just the school. He wanted me to get acquainted with people in the community, and do community service. I was like okay, that’s a pretty good answer.” 

New Texas defensive line coach Kenny Baker stopped by Lufkin High last Wednesday, his second day on the road. It was a chance for Baker to make a strong first impression.

“Okay, so he’s a former NFL coach," Williams explained. :His recruiting process was way different than everybody else’s. He had a notepad. It was basically a rapid fire questions. He didn’t give me time to think, so he didn’t give me a chance to process the question. He spit questions and then was writing down my answers. He was seeing how I answered. I didn’t realize it until I looked down because I saw his hand moving the whole time. I was like, 'oh he’s writing down what I’m saying.' That was intimidating in a good way - if that makes sense. He asked what I wanted to do outside of football, what ere my hobbies, my family and stuff like that. He really liked my answers.”

One key piece of news Williams said Tuesday was there are four schools he knows he wants to make an official visit to as of today. 

Texas, A&M, TCU and LSU. 

Williams on meeting with Brian Kelly

LSU head coach Brian Kelly and Tigers defensive line coach Bo Davis made the trip to Lufkin from Baton Rouge in January to sit down with the 4-star. 

“It was basically more of getting to know Coach (Brian) Kelly because Coach Bo (Davis) and I are already cool," Williams said. "It was mostly Coach Kelly and I doing a bunch of talking. For me, in what was about an hour conversation, he’s a pretty cool ole’ dude. You can tell he’s not from the south. I liked getting to talk to Coach Bo again. That was nice. We talk once or twice a week. When he’s not busy, I’ll reach out to him, or he will reach out to me.”

Williams made a first-ever trip to LSU January 20. And it definitely presented a home-like feel. 

“My initial thoughts was that it feels like East Texas," he said. "It’s like really weird how it felt like I didn’t leave Texas at all. And that’s a pretty cool thing to me. It felt like a Piney Woods area. People were cool, nice people. The new coaching staff is pretty cool.” 

Williams on meeting with Mike Elko and Sean Spencer

Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko and Sean Spencer also met with Williams last month. 

“It was just talking again," Williams said. "He wanted to let my momma know what his plans are if I were to go down there. He was talking about developing me as a young man, and keeping my head on straight if you know what I mean. He said a lot of places don’t care, you are just a number when you go there. He said he doesn’t want to treat his players like a statistic. I liked that. Coach Elko, I’m not going to lie, was a little intimidating. He didn’t break eye contact at all our entire conversation. I like Coach Elko. He’s a pretty cool dude. When I first met him, I thought about the uncle from Alvin and the Chipmunks. He kind of looks like him to me, that was my first thought. Coach Spencer is loud, but I like it if that makes sense. He’s not an annoying loud. When he starts talking, everyone gets hyped.' 

TCU impresses more on every visit

Williams is a distant relative of former Lufkin High standout, Oklahoma defensive lineman and TCU defensive line coach JaMarkus McFarland. 

Last weekend, Williams was on campus in Fort Worth for Junior Day.

“TCU is a good school," he said. "I like it more and more every time I go up there. The coaching staff is good. I got to meet the new DC, and he is a good dude. While we were up there, JaMarkus got some of his players to come up and talk for a minute. I would say, that was the first time I got to spend with players on a visit. JaMarkus left for a little bit, and I got to ask some questions and I liked the answers I got from the players.”

Texas Tech is a fifth school that Williams is fond of when it comes to the coaching staff. He’s a fan of the energy of Joey McGuire and says he has being a foodie in common with defensive line coach Zarnell Fitch. 

]]>154Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:03:20 +0000Sark v Elkohttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/sark-v-elko-r153/ In this week’s Recruiting Breakdown, CJ and Gerry discuss Sark v Elko and the recruiting battles that are just beginning.

 

]]>153Tue, 06 Feb 2024 23:10:38 +0000Michigan DL Coach Headed to NFLhttps://test.ontexasfootball.com/news/articles/michigan-dl-coach-headed-to-nfl-r152/ Michigan defensive line coach Mike Elston is headed to the NFL.

A big piece of the Wolverines success from a year ago was the work of their defensive line. Just as importantly for the Longhorns who play Michigan in Ann Arbor the second game of the upcoming season, the Wolverines' DL was supposed to be a strength of their 2024 team. 

That may have hit a bit of a snag Tuesday afternoon as word out of Jim Harbaugh’s LA Chargers camp leaked that Elston will be making the leap to the Pros.

 

Michigan did not have any roster attrition of note after the first round of its coaches departing to Los Angeles. However, with Elston now leaving, it makes things significantly more interesting for two elite interior defensive linemen, Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, if they were to enter the portal. 

]]>152Tue, 06 Feb 2024 22:33:59 +0000