No. 1 Texas beat No. 14 Tennessee 20-17 in Knoxville on Saturday, with Colin Simmons recording five sacks, one short of the NCAA single-game record. The Longhorns’ offense struggled, but the defense supplied a major boost; Texas has a bye before facing Oklahoma on Oct. 10.
The Sporting News compared Tennessee quarterback Faizon Brandon’s circumstances to Arch Manning’s at Texas last season, saying Brandon did not have enough time to make decisions. The article said Texas is not yet a complete team and that Manning could remain a game manager if the defense continues playing well.
The article questioned Texas coach Steve Sarkisian’s play-calling, suggesting stepping away from the role could make the Longhorns more of a threat. It also cited offseason spending on Cam Coleman, Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown while saying Texas has yet to establish an elite offense.
