The Texas Longhorns showcased a commanding performance in their season-opening football game, defeating Colorado State 52-0. Texas' defense was particularly impressive, allowing only 192 total yards and keeping CSU scoreless throughout the game. Quarterback Quinn Ewers led the offense with three touchdown passes, while Arch Manning also contributed with a touchdown pass and a rushing touchdown in his debut.
In a remarkable display of strength and strategy, the Texas Longhorns football team started their 2024 season with a resounding victory against Colorado State. The game, held at Darrell K. Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium, ended in a 52-0 shutout, highlighting the Longhorns' defensive prowess and offensive efficiency. This win sets a positive tone as Texas faces a challenging schedule ahead in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Texas' defense was the standout of the game, completely stifling Colorado State's offense. The Rams were restricted to a mere 192 total yards and were unable to cross the midfield more than twice during the entire game. The Longhorns' defensive strategy was effective in shutting down CSU's attempts to establish a rhythm, highlighted by their quick containment of CSU's elite receiver Tory Horton, who was limited to just 31 yards. This performance is a testament to the Longhorns' preparedness and tactical execution on the field.
On the offensive side, quarterback Quinn Ewers demonstrated why he is considered an early Heisman Trophy contender. Ewers completed 20 of 27 passes for 260 yards, including three touchdowns in the first half alone. His connections with newcomers Matthew Golden and Isaiah Bond were particularly effective, contributing significantly to the team's 31-0 lead by halftime. Additionally, Arch Manning made a memorable debut, contributing both a passing and rushing touchdown, showcasing the depth and talent of Texas' quarterback roster.
Following their dominant win, the Longhorns are set to face a tougher challenge as they travel to Michigan to play against the ninth-ranked Wolverines. This upcoming game will not only test their capabilities but also set the stage for their first season in the SEC. The performance against Colorado State has set high expectations, and it will be interesting to see how the team adapts and responds to the challenges of a more competitive league.
The Texas Longhorns' overwhelming victory over Colorado State is a promising start to their 2024 campaign. Both the offense and defense performed exceptionally, setting a high bar for the remainder of the season. As Texas prepares for its next game against Michigan, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can maintain this level of performance against top-tier opponents.
"I think we accomplished a lot of the things I hoped we would today. We played 51 different players in the first half, so from that aspect, it was good to have a lot of guys get into the game and get involved." - Steve Sarkisian