Texas: Four keys to beating Oklahoma State

By John Hillman  |   Monday, October 20, 2008  |  Comments( 1 )

Texas Longhorns
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For the second time in three games, top-ranked Texas faces an undefeated opponent; this time, it's Oklahoma State. The Cowboys want a win badly to move up in the BCS standings, but they haven’t been victorious in Austin since World War II. However, the Horns can still taste their 2005 national championship and hunger for another.

Commentary: The No. 1 Longhorns should keep their coveted spot if they concentrate on these four keys.

1. Stop Dez Bryant. The Cowboys wide receiver ranks fourth in the nation with 809 yards on 45 catches; what's more, he has 11 receiving touchdowns. Against Baylor last week, Bryant snared all but two of quarterback Zac Robinson’s throws and ran rampant against the weak Bear secondary. Although Sam Bradford’s passing tested the Longhorn defensive backs, Bryant may be the best pass catcher they’ve faced all season.

2. Stop Dez Bryant. Texas must worry not only about Bryant exploiting the Horns’ secondary, but it also can’t let the dual-threat athlete loose on punt returns. The sophomore is averaging over 20 yards per return this season and has taken two all the way to house. Big plays on special teams can keep Oklahoma State within striking distance even if the Texas offense dominates.

3. Pressure Zac Robinson. Robinson has completed over 70 percent of passes this year for almost 1,500 yards and 14 touchdowns. The Oklahoma State offensive line has provided superb protection for its quarterback, allowing only five sacks in seven games. However, defensive coordinator Will Muschamp has ratcheted up the Texas intensity. Defensive end Brian Orakpo alone has accounted for eight Longhorn sacks and 12 tackles for losses.

4. Protect Colt McCoy. The Longhorns have surprised analysts with their offensive line play this season. Texas has allowed only 12 sacks through seven games, and McCoy has completed over 80 percent of his passes and thrown just three interceptions. If McCoy has time to throw, the Cowboys might depart Austin as shell shocked as Missouri.

Fan Pulse: Texas fans don’t expect the Longhorns to experience a letdown against Oklahoma State. Check out this link for some of their thoughts: http://texas.rivals.com/showmsg.asp?fid=61&tid=119387148&mid=119387148&sid=902&style=2.

Injury Report: The nation’s No. 1 team appears healthy for the Cowboys.
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About John Hillman

John Hillman graduated from Baylor University in 1974 with a BBA in accounting and earned an MBA from Baylor in 1987. He worked for accounting firms until 1982 when he became the chief financial officer for an independent insurance claims adjusting service, a position he still holds today. ...
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