 "Photo: Peter Franklin")
When it comes to running the football, the Longhorns' opponents are quickly learning a lesson.
Don't mess with Texas.
After four games, the team has the second-best rushing defense in the nation. On an average attempt, opposing teams gain less than a yard every time they go to the ground. Four games into the season and the combined efforts of Texas' opponents barely eclipse the 100-yard mark with 104. By comparison, the least rushing yards Texas' offense has accumulated in a game is 172 which came against Ohio State.
With Sam Houston State next on the schedule, Texas' 24 rushing yards per game average may dip even lower.
"That's the situation you want to be in," defensive coordinator Duane Akina said. "When you stop the run like we're stopping it, people have to throw."
And throw they have.
Texas is allowing more than 200 passing yards a game and ranks ninth in the Big 12 in passing defense. While largely a simple consequence of their stifling run defense, the results have been disappointing for the speedy secondary.
Injuries have plagued the defensive backs throughout the year. Marcus Griffin was limping against Iowa State. His twin, Michael, has been wearing a boot to stabilize his ankle. But head coach Mack Brown still likes seeing opposing quarterbacks drop back and attempt to pass.
"Most of the time, when people can't run it, and they have to throw it, you'll win the game," he said.
To back that up he's got 74 wins and one loss after outrushing opponents.
While Texas linebackers haven't put up big numbers, it's primarily because they haven't gotten chances. Brown said they've played a big role by tackling well when the opportunity arises and allowing few creases for Texas' opponents.
Their intimidating presence also allows the defensive line more opportunities to wade into the backfield. Defensive end Tim Crowder - last week's Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week - leads the Big 12 with 10 tackles for a loss. And with opposing teams often electing to pass, they get opportunities to chase down the signal-caller.
"When you can stop the run, it gives you a chance to get after the quarterback," Brown said.
That was clearly evidenced Saturday as the Longhorns held the Cyclones to 21 rushing yards and sacked Bret Meyer seven times for a combined loss of 42 yards. After three games, the Bearkats have averaged more than twice as many passing yards per game than rushing yards.
Don't expect their high-flying approach to change when they visit Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
Texas' defense won't give them much of a choice.
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