40 Acres Sports

Want to see what happens when a train collides with an suspecting quarterback? Watch Texas defensive end absolutely crush Texas Tech quarterback Taylor Potts on a huge sack and forced fumble:

Follow along live with 40 Acres Sports on Twitter and below for our thoughts and analysis during tonight’s game versus on ABC. We’ll be live right around kickoff so join us to discuss the game right around 7pm tonight.

Feel free to leave comments and questions using the live tool, but not all comments will be published. Read below for more notes on comments and how the live blog will work. Hook ‘em!

6:45	Brian:  Welcome to the 40 Acres Sports live blog. Participate in the conversation here and with 40AcresSports on Twitter.

6:48	suzhalliburton:  Deon beasley is in uniform for game. #ut

6:48	40acressports:  We’ll still be tweeting our analysis, add #40 to your tweets to have them embedded on the site. #UT

6:54	40acressports:  @kbohls Don’t think we’ll see 3 DL, Kindle + Robinson + E Acho, and 5 DB’s a lot also? #UT #40

6:54	atrubow:  Also, Penn State’s schedule is a joke (just to be fair), so #ut shouldn’t have to worry about them. But you never know with voters. #horns

6:55	meetattexas:  RT @40acressports: Make sure you’re following @atrubow, @suzhalliburton, @InsideTexas and of course @40AcresSports for live updates. #UT #40

6:58	Brian:  Almost kickoff. Are you guys ready for some football???

7:01	suzhalliburton:  Reason why #ut didn’t send out injury report was because everyone listed on monday’s depth chart can play.

7:02	Brian:  Hoping for a big enough win tonight to not have to ever see that Tech/Crabtree gamewinning play again. Is that too much to ask?

7:03	40acressports:  I sure hope so… RT @ChrisSanch: Last time theyll ever show the Tech highlights from last year #ut

7:05	40acressports:  @suzhalliburton That’s what I was thinking. Beasley’s 3 years of experience against Leach’s offenses is invaluable. #UT #40

7:07	[Comment From Derek] Whew. Is it game time yet? I’mready for this to be over.

7:09	Brian:  How much fun was it watching USC lose today? Let’s hope the Texas players come to play tonight and take care of business.

7:09	40acressports:  ABC/ESPN loves Tebow so much they’re pretending #UF is replaying last week’s game and is showing 2nd quarter game update. #UT

7:09	Brian:  Cheerleaders and UT band taking the field now…

7:11	suzhalliburton:  David mcwilliams, former coach of both schools, is tossing coin #ut

7:11	atrubow:  Good crowd noise tonight already. #Ut #horns

7:11	stevehabel:  Tech won the toss and will receive as Leach wants to get his offense on the field first. #ut #horns #hookem

7:11	suzhalliburton:  Tech wins toss. Will receive. #ut

7:12	40acressports:  RT @aTrubow: Good crowd noise tonight already. #Ut #horns

7:13	Brian:  Justin Tucker to kickoff

7:13	atrubow:  Welcome to Big 12 play. The season officially begins right now for #ut

7:14	40acressports:  Texas and Texas Tech finally underway. Remember to add #40 to your tweets to add them to our live blog: http://bit.ly/deTs6 #UT

7:14	stevehabel:  Late flag twarts good Tech runback. #ut #horns #hookem

7:15	Brian:  1st pass completed by TT. Tech going with hurry up offense.

7:15	40acressports:  Tx Tech cheating already on opening kickoff. Holding on return starts TT back at their 19 yd line. #UT

7:15	Brian:  post play penalty on somebody.

7:16	pnutbtrjelee:  are there any other Horns our there who think our Intrastate rivalry has officially shifted from A&M to Tech? #ut #40

7:17	40acressports:  Tech already with 2 penalties after dead ball late hit. I can already hear Leach blaming the refs. #UT #40

7:17	[Comment From Derek] Come on Muschamp. Slow them down at leAST!

7:18	atrubow:  #ut defense missing tackles left and right on this first drive. #horns

7:19	40acressports:  Texas defense looks overmatched on first drive. Let’s hope Muschamp can make VERY fast adjustments. #UT #40

7:19	Brian:  Even big time hit can’t cause first incompletion of night. Tech receiver bobbles and catches the ball. Argh.

7:20	atrubow:  Earl Thomas and Franks played on the same high school team. Thank you @suzhalliburton for that note. #ut #horns

7:21	40acressports:  Ball moved when his hands went near the ground but other angle shows he was underneath the ball. Right call. #UT #40

7:21	stevehabel:  Tech rolling through UT like a hot knife thru butter. #ut #horns #hookem

7:21	[Comment From JavaH] This is sickening to watch right now. How Tech is moving down the field.

7:22	Brian:  Penalty and false start breaks up Tech rhythm and Horns force 4th and 7. Will Tech fake FG?

7:22	chipbrownob:  Sergio Kindle just got a hit in the QB on third down, helping to force a FG. Texas Tech leads it 3-0 with 11:06 left in the first

7:23	40acressports:  Good pressure on QB on 3rd & long plus good coverage forces #Tech to kick field goal. I’ll consider that a minor victory. #UT #40

7:23	stevehabel:  First Potts incompletion ends drive but Tech field goal allows for 3-0 lead. #ut #horns #hookem

7:24	chipbrownob:  Matthew McConaughey got lots of pre-game love from Mack and Mike Leach with his girlfriend, love child and love child No. 2 on the way

7:24	insidetexas:  Tech’s first drive ends because a Kindle hit disrupts Potts’ 3rd down throw. Kindle doesn’t need a sack, just needs to stay in Potts’ face.

7:24	atrubow:  Was that a good drive for the #ut defense or not. I can’t tell. My first thought is not. #horns did put more pressure on TTU receivers late

7:25	stevehabel:  Potts 6-of-7 on opening drive. Three os the passes were thrown less than 5 yards. #ut #horns #hookem

7:25	suzhalliburton:  Happy to oblige w/orange trivia RT @aTrubow: Earl Thomas and Franks played on same hi school team. Thank you @suzhalliburton for that note.

7:25	chipbrownob:  Even with 102,000 fans in a game with all sorts of payback on the minds of fans, Godzillatron flashes a massive sign saying “MAKE NOISE!”

7:26	40acressports:  @aTrubow As bad as it started, a FG isn’t too bad. Now time to see if Muschamp can adjust and settle his DBs down. #UT #40

7:26	marshallboone:  WOW I’m really impressed by Texas Tech…and by impressed I mean HATE. #40

7:26	chipbrownob:  OG David Snow starts in place of OG Michael Huey (ankle), who was cleared to return this week

7:27	40acressports:  DJ Monroe REALLY wanted to run that kickoff back from 7 yards deep in the end zone. Mal Williams had to tackle him to get touchback. #UT #40

7:28	Brian:  Offensive line really got their butt whipped on that 1st down run. 2 or 3 Tech DL met McGee in   backfield.

7:28	chipbrownob:  Texas running right at end where Tech has lost Rajon Henley (injured) and is playing DT Richard Jones at DE

7:29	chipbrownob:  Dan Buckner just keeps making plays, held onto the ball after a big hit #ut #horns #collegefootball

7:29	Brian:  McCoy runs with the football. Couldnt tell if that was designed draw or if he just tucked it and ran when no one was open.

7:29	40acressports:  Great concentration by Dan Buckner to hold onto the ball after being hit hard on crossing route. Nice catch and 15 yd gain. #UT #40

7:29	40acressports:  Tre Newton already in the game for the Horns. good to see. #UT #40

7:29	chipbrownob:  Taylor Potts 6 of 7 passing for 57 yards on Tech’s first drive to a FG

7:30	chipbrownob:  Tech’s replacement end RIchard Jones just got around Adam Ulatoski to sack Colt McCoy with Tech just rushing 3 men #ut #horns

7:31	40acressports:  3 man rush by Tech easily gets around Ulatoski for drive ending sack. Oline not looking good early. #UT #40

7:31	suzhalliburton:  jones runs around ulatoski to sack mccoy #ut

7:32	stevehabel:  Slip by Shipley and sack of McCoy ends UT drive. Did that punt hit the Tech player? Sure looked like it. #ut #horns #hookem

7:32	insidetexas:  Malcolm Williams may not have that many chances on offense, but he’s been huge on special teams this season. #ut

7:33	alcep:  Annoying Tech fan in front of me! Let’s see if she’s still feeling it in 4th? #UT #40

7:33	atrubow:  Good point out by @cedgolden as Ulatoski got burned on that sack. #ut #horns

7:34	Brian:  Punt hit Malcolm WIlliams at the 6. Tech starts there instead of the 1.

7:37	40acressports:  Pressure by #UT defense definitely disrupting Potts. He threw that 3rd down ball right at E Thomas but he wasnt expecting it. Punt time. #UT

7:38	[Comment From JavaH] Now we are talking : )

7:38	suzhalliburton:  Texas’ rush was really good on last series #ut

7:38	atrubow:  Shipley just scared the crap out of BEVO, who stood up after the touchdown return. #ut #horns

7:38	insidetexas:  This is why you save Jordan Shipley as a punt returner for the games that matter. 7-3 #ut

7:38	40acressports:  LOOOK OUT BEVO!!! Here comes Jordan Shipley. Great defense follwed by Shipley punt return for the TOUCHDOWN! #UT 7, TT 3

7:39	suzhalliburton:  Shipley takes punt to the house then runs into bevo. Seriously. Bevo is now on his feet. #ut

7:40	stevehabel:  Watch out Bevo! Shipley almost runs over the legend after a 46-yd punt return for a TD. First the blitz, then the return. #ut #horns #hookem

7:40	40acressports:  Punt return touchdown is going to put #UT defense right back on the field. No time for Leach to adjust. Keep the pressure one! #40

7:40	40acressports:  @suzhalliburton Bevo having a busy day. First a dump on national TV this morning and now a touchdown celebration!! #UT #40

7:40	suzhalliburton:  Ask @cedgolden about how feisty bevo can get. He came out with horns swinging one game last year. Got away from his handlers.

7:41	40acressports:  Tech punter looked like an even pudgier version of myself there. No way he was stopping Shipley down on that punt return. #UT #40

7:41	suzhalliburton:  Just for some background, roy williams used to be scared of bevo. #ut

7:41	atrubow:  Shipley almost discovered a new meaning to GET YOUR HORNS UP. #ut #horns

7:41	[Comment From m] score?

7:42	Brian:  @M: Texas is leading 7-3 midway through 1st quarter.

7:43	Brian:  TExas corners giving wide receivers 15 yard cushions. Not sure how we expect that to work out.

7:43	atrubow:  Want to know why the SEC makes fun of the #big12. Look at the cushion the #ut secondary gives the Texas Tech receivers. #horns

7:46	40acressports:  Pressure on Potts work. Can Muschamp get to him consistently? Aaron Williams dropped another pick there. #UT #40

7:47	40acressports:  Wow. Thought we actually got a holding call against #TT linemen, but instead they called facemask. I’ll take it. #UT #40

7:47	Brian:  On the screen attempt, Earl Thomas came flying in to break up the pass. Fantastic diving effort.

7:48	Brian:  Lamarr Houston with a nice inside pass rush. Forces Potts to get rid of ball and gets big hit on hm.

7:48	40acressports:  Herbie making it sound like #UT has some of the worst fans in college football. Apparently we think McCoy and Kindle both suck. #40

7:49	[Comment From JavaH] I’m glad to see the D starting to step up!!

7:49	suzhalliburton:  Really impressed w/muschamp’s game plan. He’s playing nickel, getting big rush from line, with some LB blitzes #ut

7:50	Brian:  Tre Newton starts this drive at RB.

7:50	atrubow:  And just as I say that, the secondary steps up thanks to pressure from the defensive line. #ut #horns

7:51	Brian:  McCoy doesnt set his feet and throws ball well over John CHiles head. It would have been easy first down.

7:52	chipbrownob:  OG Michael Huey was in on that last series, repalacing starter OG David Snow

7:52	Brian:  Kindle hits QB and causes a duck but it still finds wide open Tech receiver.

7:55	40acressports:  true freshman DE Alex Okafor with great pressure but tries to pick up fumble instead of falling on it. 4th and WAY long for Tech. #UT #40

7:55	insidetexas:  Okafor, thinking touchdown. Can’t blame him, nothing but green in front of him. #ut

7:55	atrubow:  Now the defense is starting to play. Lamarr Houston and Earl Thomas are #ut best defenders. #horns. Impressive.

7:56	40acressports:  How awesome would it be if Leach didn’t punt on 4th and 41? NOW that would be pirate. #UT #40

7:56	marshallboone:  just fall on the ball…fall on the ball! FALL ON THE BALL!!!! (nevermind) #40

7:57	atrubow:  BYU getting rolled by Florida State. Another top 10 team going down? Is everything coming up #ut ?

7:57	40acressports:  it doesn’t matter if his arm was moving forward, ball went backwards. THats a fumble either way. Don’t understand this challenge. #UT #40

7:58	atrubow:  We have a Fozzy Whittaker sighting. And IT’S ON THE FIELD!!! #ut #horns

7:58	suzhalliburton:  Fozzy whittaker on field for first time in 09. #ut

7:59	[Comment From JavaH] LOL @ marshallboone

7:59	insidetexas:  Q package!

7:59	atrubow:  Not Fozzy. Sorry. It’s a DJ Monroe sighting. Boo on @atrubow. That guy’s an idiot. #ut #horns

7:59	suzhalliburton:  The Q lives. Who knew. #ut

8:00	40acressports:  WOOHOOO! THe @TitosVodka package with CHiles in at QB. CHiles runs zone read up the middle easily for huge gain. #UT #40

8:00	chipbrownob:  The Q Package lives …

8:01	stevehabel:  UT uses the Q formation and it works. Chiles sprints up the middle for 37 yards. Puts UT in FG range as the 1st qtr ends. #ut #horns #hookem

8:02	suzhalliburton:  And for those wondering the tech punter is russell erxleben’s son. #ut

8:02	40acressports:  @bevobeat If Horns get 7 here, I’m feeling good about defense so feeling good about game. Don’t want to settle for field goal! #UT #40

8:02	stevehabel:  No offensive TDs in the first qtr… what were the odds on that? #ut #horns #hookem

8:03	[Comment From Derek] Chiles looks much quicker now than he did as QB. I think he must have lost at least a little weight.

8:03	40acressports:  RT @stevehabel: No offensive TDs in the first qtr… what were the odds on that? #ut

8:03	stevehabel:  UT ran just 13 offensive plays in the first qtr. Tech had 22. #ut #horns #hookem

8:03	Brian:  First quarter: Texas 7, Texas Tech 3

8:05	Brian:  Colt had time to throw on 3rd and 11 but tries to dump ball off and doesn’t set his feet. Field goal attempt.

8:05	Brian:  Texas settles for field goal by Hunter Lawrence. Texas 10, Texas Tech 3.

8:06	insidetexas:  Horns held to a FG. 10-3 #ut. As long as the D keeps playing well the Horns will be fine.

8:06	stevehabel:  Lawrence FG from 43 yards gives UT 10-3 lead. McCoy is still not sharp…how long will he continue his senior slump? #ut #horns #hookem

8:07	40acressports:  Jordan Shipley is no Mack Brown: http://bit.ly/1dcpXn #UT

8:09	TAning:  RT @LIVESTRONGTEXAS: Colt can’t blame the altitude for overthrown passes this week @HookEmFans #UT #hookem #40

8:10	stevehabel:  Potts makes great throw with Jones bearing down on him. Pressure is the key to this game. #ut #horns #hookem

8:13	40acressports:  Good coverage by Aaron Williams on 4th down play but good Tech catch and they convert for the 1st down. Argh. #UT #40

8:14	atrubow:  Acho certainly knows how to strip the ball. #ut #Horns

8:14	insidetexas:  Texas forces a turnover after getting very close several times this half. #ut

8:14	40acressports:  Great pressure by front 4 and E Acho sniffs out screen play and forces fumble! Texas football! #UT

8:15	Brian:  Colt McCoy sneaks for the 1st down. Texas offense moving a little better this drive.

8:15	Brian:  And just as I say that… McCoy throws high AGAIN and is intercepted. Argh.

8:15	[Comment From Dee Burleson] where i can se the game free on internet???

8:16	atrubow:  Don’t let #ut coaches or fans fool you. Colt McCoy has not looked as accurate this year. He’s missing a lot more passes. #horns

8:17	[Comment From JavaH] Colt is killing us by himself : (

8:17	stevehabel:  The other Acho makes a great play to strip ball on screen. Then high pass by McCoy leads to INT. Ouch…wake up Colt. #ut #horns #hookem

8:17	insidetexas:  McCoy’s passes are a bit high, just like in the first half against Wyoming. Will need to get it down like he did against Wyoming. #ut

8:17	suzhalliburton:  Think colt mccoy is still too jacked up. His throws are sailing #ut

8:18	ChrisSanch:  I dont like speculation but does McCoy have a shoulder issue? Hes missed high last week and now #ut #40

8:18	stars_gal:  You’re killing me, Colt. #UT #hookem #40

8:19	chipbrownob:  Third straight game in which Colt McCoy has thrown an interception in the first half #ut #horns #collegefootball

8:19	atrubow:  You know what’s awesome? After this game against Texas Tech, we get the excitement of watching #ut take on UTEP!!!! #horns

8:20	40acressports:  Texas defense is carrying this team right now. Who would’ve thunk that 5 minutes into the game? #UT #40

8:21	TAning:  RT @40acressports: Texas defense is carrying this team right now. Who would’ve thunk that 5 minutes into the game? #UT #40

8:21	atrubow:  #ut should think about keeping this Will Muschamp somehow. His defense is playing great against Texas Tech.

8:21	chipbrownob:  Friend just text-messaged me: “Colt McCoy has one hour before the East Coast goes to bed.”

8:23	chipbrownob:  Colt McCoy is 5 of 9 passing for 41 yards and 1 INT, while Tech QB Taylor Potts is 19 of 28 for 120 yards. But UT D has held Tech to 3 pts

8:25	atrubow:  When will Colt learn to slide or get out of bounds. Answer: never. #ut #horns

8:26	40acressports:  Tech offsides on 3rd and 1.5 but no call by refs. Cody Johnson gets the first anyways. #UT

8:26	insidetexas:  Last drive: “Q package!” This drive: “Q package?”

8:26	[Comment From Mandy] What is the score

8:26	Brian:  @Mandy: Texas leads 10 – 3

8:27	40acressports:  So much for the Q Package. Chiles doesn’t concentrate on shotgun snap and fumbles it. #UT recovers.

8:28	40acressports:  With the way the defense has played, I pubt the ball on 4th down. No way I go for this. #UT

8:28	Brian:  Not a good punt by Justin Tucker. Only 20 yards or so. He could have backed Tech up deep but instead they’ll start near 30 yard line.

8:28	stevehabel:  That was one ugly rugby punt by Tucker…almost as bad as the showing by the UT offense on the last drive. #ut #horns #hookem

8:29	[Comment From ChrisB] Argh. COME ON COLT!

8:29	chipbrownob:  I thought Mack Brown and Colt McCoy had a talk last Sunday about having fun and relaxing …

8:30	[Comment From JavaH] @chipbrownob Apparently Colt wasn’t listening

8:33	40acressports:  Tech punt team? #ut

8:34	Brian:  Whoa. Tech punt coverage team just whiffed on chance to have Texas pinned at their own 1 yard line. That would have been way too eerie reminder of adsad last year.

8:35	atrubow:  If Colt wants the Heisman he has to cut down on these INTs. One per game won’t cut it. Yes, even one per game will hurt. #ut #horns

8:37	atrubow:  Hey, a Tre Newton sighting. Amazing that #ut would try to play the running back the week after he had the best game.

8:37	40acressports:  Good to see deep pass attemp by #UT, but I like that we took a shot to go to Williams. Little bit of contact mightve drawn flag too.

8:40	Brian:  QB draw by McCoy but V McGee whiffs on block and Colt only gets 5.

8:42	40acressports:  #UT trying everything on offense. True freshman Marquise Goodwin in at WR in first half. #40

8:42	atrubow:  And the #ut defense is officially winning this game for the #horns. Who would have thought that? Defensive struggle. #horns

8:44	suzhalliburton:  Never thought we’d see a defensive game w/tech and #ut. Strange

8:44	stevehabel:  Smith hauls in first catch for a UT tight end at 1:03 point of second quarter in third game. Who needs a TE? #ut #horns #hookem

8:44	atrubow:  E. Acho is a playmaker. That’s his second strip. #ut #horns

8:45	40acressports:  Some people questioned recruitment of Emmanuel Acho, just made ANOTHER great open field tackle. He’s got two forced fumbles tonight. #UT #40

8:47	40acressports:  Whoops. Refs screwed that one up. #UT defense was awake though they didnt top until the whistle and would have lit Potts up. #40

8:47	atrubow:  Definitely a knee-jerk reaction by the officials. #ut #horns

8:47	suzhalliburton:  Leach is leaving field to smattering of boos. #ut

8:48	stevehabel:  Pirate thinking for Leach…call time out to kneel on the next snap. Defense battle is offensive to many of the fans. #ut #horns #hookem

8:49	stevehabel:  How good is UT defense…carrying the game for the Horns for the second straight week. D wins games, folks. #ut #horns #hookem

8:50	texascmj5:  I wonder what kind of BS make up call Leach will get in the 2nd half for that didn’t-take-the-knee call #40 #ut

8:52	stevehabel:  Tech ran 42 offensive plays in the 1st half to UT’s 32. Outgained TX 156-124. Tech was -7 yards rushing. #ut #horns #hookem

8:52	atrubow:  McCoy has 70 passing yards at halftime and an interception. #ut #horns

8:53	stevehabel:  McCoy completed nine passes in the half for 70 yards. Potts was 24 of 34 for 163. TT had 9 FDs, UT had 7. #ut #horns #hookem

8:54	stevehabel:  18 of Potts’ 34 throws were within five yards of the LOS. He completed 15 of those short tosses. #ut #horns #hookem

8:55	stevehabel:  Ten players caught passes for Tech in the 1st half and 12 offensive players — including Potts touched the ball for TT. #ut #horns #hookem

8:56	stevehabel:  I would think that we are in for a lot of fireworks in the second half, friends. The difference will be the UT defense. #ut #horns #hookem

8:58	suzhalliburton:  Tech people think last time tech scored so few points in a half was last year’s ou game #ut

8:58	Brian:  Who would’ve thought we’d have such a defensive struggle on our hands after one half of play? Let’s hope we see 2008 Colt McCoy in second half after seeing 2007 Colt McCoy in the first half.

9:00	suzhalliburton:  Check that. Last time tech scored 3 pts in a half was in 06, in a 12-3 loss to tcu. It was harrell’s first year as a starter. #ut

9:04	40acressports:  RT @kbohls: A 10-3 game. Just like we expected. Yeah, after about two minutes after kickoff. Can these two defenses keep it up?#ut

9:04	suzhalliburton:  Tech hasn’t allowed a first-half offensive touchdown this season. Nice streak. #ut

9:09	40acressports:  DJ Monroe almost bursts through there. Nice return to start second half for #UT at 35 yd line.

9:10	40acressports:  #UT finally running some of their quick hurry up and screw it up. Either Colt or Newton went wrong way. #UT

9:10	suzhalliburton:  Official attendance is stadium record 101,297 #ut

9:10	Brian:  Nice 3rd down conversion. Colt passes to Chiles. He almost broke a tackle but he picked up about 10 yards, enough for first down.

9:12	insidetexas:  On Wednesday Mack Brown said we’d see some “new wrinkles” in the offense for the Tech game. …got to admit, didn’t think it’d be the Q.

9:12	[Comment From ChrisB] Come on Horns!

9:13	Brian:  Buckner whiffs on needed block and gets Colt hammered. Almost fumbled. Another 3rd and 5 for Texas.

9:14	[Comment From Derek] Like the hurry up. This worked well against Tech last year too.

9:14	40acressports:  Colt might have had something there on that 2nd down run attempt but Dan Buckner didnt know whether to block or run route. #UT #40

9:14	suzhalliburton:  #UT was getting into its jet offense and tech called a timeout with 11:45 to go in third quarter.

9:15	atrubow:  Big opening drive here for #ut. And, yes, I’m captain obvious. OK, here’s an opinion: Newton needs to be the starting tailback. #horns

9:17	40acressports:  Chiles is lining up 4 yards behind line of scrimmage, setting up possible double pass later? #UT

9:17	suzhalliburton:  Newton gets the first offensive TD. He scores on a 19-yd burst. #ut

9:17	atrubow:  Did I just say Newton needs to be the starting tailback? No, I couldn’t have. I’m never right. #ut #horns

9:18	insidetexas:  A running touchdown! …from further out than the one yard line! …and it wasn’t Colt McCoy! Weird. #ut

9:18	suzhalliburton:  On that call Leach was bothered by, you can’t simulate taking a knee. It’s against NCAA rules. #ut

9:18	40acressports:  RT @whitneyredman: Officials say, knee down simulation is an illegal move. One the knee is headed down, the play is dead. #ut #tech

9:18	chipbrownob:  The auditions are over … the job is Tre’ Newton’s.

9:19	Brian:  Tre Newton looks great on back to back runs. Texas hurry up offense had Tech on their heels and Newton strikes with 19 yard touchdown run. Great start to the second half. Texas 17, Texas Tech 3

9:20	40acressports:  Now lets get good kickoff coverage and see if #UT defense can keep up the great play. Come on Horns! #40

9:21	Brian:  Sheesh. How about a touchback? Our kickoff coverage has been mediocre at best.

9:21	Brian:  Tech starts at 40 yrd line

9:22	Brian:  Come on! Texas corners CAN’T miss tackles. Come on Chykie.

9:24	suzhalliburton:  and that makes five false starts on the o-line #ut

9:27	atrubow:  Just when you thought #ut would blow this game open …

9:27	atrubow:  Kindle didn’t just get there that time. He made the tackle. #ut #horns

9:27	40acressports:  Back to back big tackles by Chykie Brown and Sergio Kindle brings up 4th and 1 for tech. #UT

9:28	Brian:  Potts takes snap and sneaks for first down. Didnt get much but got just enough for 1st.

9:29	Brian:  Chykie Brown beat easily on post route as Tech answers Texas’ touchdown. Back to a 7 point game again. Texas 17, Texas Tech 10

9:29	atrubow:  It’s not good when your safety blitz doesn’t get past the line of scrimmage by the time the quarterback throws the ball. #ut #Horns

9:29	insidetexas:  Tech puts the ball into the end zone for the first time this game. D has been winning this game for Texas, now is when the Horns need O. #ut

9:29	[Comment From JavaH] What happen to the D from the 1st half????

9:30	chipbrownob:  Taylor Potts is putting on a show – 30 of 41 passing for 230 yards and 1 TD with no INTs. Texas leads 17-10 with 6:27 left in the third

9:31	suzhalliburton:  wondering why Muschamp has his safeties blitz from so deep, especially against an offense that by design, gets the ball off quickly #ut

9:32	suzhalliburton:  Leach calls an onside kick. Tech is offsides and Roberson recovers. #ut

9:32	Brian:  Crazy Dread Pirate Leach onside kicks but RB/LB Ryan Roberson recovers it. Add an offsides penalty against Tech and Texas is starting at the 50.

9:33	insidetexas:  How very…Tech. Too close for comfort on the onside. ..well penalty would have knock it out anyway.

9:34	suzhalliburton:  Some Q razzle dazzle. McCoy throws to Kirkendoll for 11 after lining up at receiver #ut

9:34	insidetexas:  Now THAT is inventive offense. #ut

9:34	40acressports:  Mightve had an even bigger play. Colt throws high on reverse pass to Kirkendoll and he can’t keep his feet. Might had at least 10 more yds.

9:34	Brian:  As much as I complained in first half. Offensive line looking good here in the 2nd.

9:36	40acressports:  Herbie just pointed out the Texas Tech safeties and McCoy finds wide open Dan Buckner down the seam. Down at the 1 yd line (maybe TD!?) #UT

9:36	40acressports:  Cody Johnson time. Come on big boy! Punch it in. #UT

9:38	insidetexas:  Horns needed that score. Texas up a much more comfortable 24-10.

9:39	Brian:  Whew. Texas back up 14. Much needed score. Horns take advantage of short field after onside kick attempt. Texas 24,Texas Tech 10

9:39	suzhalliburton:  Johnson, the touchdown hog, gives #ut a 24-10 lead. (JMO, Leach, that’s why you don’t try an onside kick so early).

9:39	40acressports:  Not much push by offensive line but CJohnson keeps legs churning and just barely crosses the plane for the TD. #UT back up 14.

9:39	Brian:  Let’s see that first half defense back this drive? Come on Horns.

9:40	40acressports:  After recovering onside kick, Ryan Roberson now makes nice kickoff coverage tackle. Finally… Tech back on their 15 yd line. #UT

9:41	Brian:  Scratch that. Wide open Tech receiver and then bad tackling. Tech big pass play and out to midfield. Crap.

9:41	[Comment From JavaH] @Brian Agree!!!!

9:43	40acressports:  Man Potts’ throws just seem to float in air forever. Come on Horns! #UT defensive backs look lost and tired. #40

9:44	40acressports:  3rd and 1. #UT defensive backs giving 15 yd cushion. Yikes.

9:44	chipbrownob:  Taylor Potts is 11 of 13 passing in the third quarter

9:45	insidetexas:  Tech responds with another TD (Thomas goes for the pick instead of the tackle). This is turning into a shootout. 24-17 #ut

9:45	chipbrownob:  Make that 12 of 14 passing in the third quarter. Potts just hit Lyle Leong for a TD, and Texas clings to a 24-17 lead

9:46	[Comment From JavaH] 1st half defense back went home : (

9:46	[Comment From Wally] Go texas

9:46	[Comment From nate] whos winning

9:46	atrubow:  Here’s the shootout we were waiting for. Why can’t #ut cornerbacks play physical defense from the line of scrimmage?

9:46	40acressports:  Earl Thomas might have gotten both hands on that TD pass. Nice catch by Tech WR for the score. Time for #UT offense to answer. Again.

9:46	atrubow:  Would this be impossible? #ut #horns

9:46	Brian:  @Nate: Texas Tech just scored to make it 24-17.

9:47	[Comment From nate] whos wining

9:47	Brian:  @Nate: Oh sorry. Texas is winning.

9:48	Brian:  Very nice catch by Dan Buckner. Big first down.

9:49	40acressports:  Something it seems all college players struggle with. Just because it’s a trick play doesn’t mean you force it. Colt throws into 4 DBs. #UT

9:49	suzhalliburton:  #ut is in the jet offense. Chains can’t keep up

9:50	Brian:  End of 3rd quarter. Texas 24, Texas Tech 17.

9:51	insidetexas:  Nice to see Monroe and Goodwin on the wings to provide speed, but not sure if the deep passing gane is consistent enough to utilize it. #ut

9:52	[Comment From Derek] Fourth quarter. Time for Texas to put their foot on Tech’s freaking throats and win this thing. Come on HORNS!

9:53	suzhalliburton:  Potts has thrown 48 passes. And it’s just the end of the third quarter. #ut

9:54	Brian:  Texas go for it on 4th?

9:54	Brian:  Nope. Punt team.

9:55	40acressports:  Tucker pins Tech inside 5 yard line. Tiime for some magic. Let’s go Muschamp! #UT

9:56	suzhalliburton:  Kindle gets big push on Potts and Earl Thomas gets redemption for Crabtree play. #ut

9:57	40acressports:  Did Earl Thomas keep his knee up?? INT by Thomas thanks to great pressure in end zone by Sergio Kindle. #UT touchdown or maybe at 20.

9:57	insidetexas:  He was down…but still, HUGE pick for Thomas coming off pressure from Kindle. #ut

9:58	40acressports:  Thomas MIGHT have barely kept his knee up but it looked like he probably didn’t. No way replay can overrule call on field. #UT ball at 20.

9:58	40acressports:  RT @ranriggs: A&M survives Utah State in a 38-30 slopfest. No updates yet on Fuller. See what Sherman says in the post-game presser. #gigem

9:59	40acressports:  HUGE mistake by Kyle Hix. Holding turns 2nd down at 13 yard line into 1st and 20 at 30 yd line. Shoot. #UT

10:00

insidetexas:  Remember that Quan guy? Who caught everything? Yeeeeaahh…

10:00

40acressports:  Ball right back to Texas Tech on interception of Malcolm Williams’ hands. SONOFA. #UT

10:00

[Comment From Chris] Great punt

10:00

[Comment From Chris] what outstanding pressure from the 4-man front… straight bull rush technique

10:01

[Comment From TexasFan1.11] Hey Whats the score guys

10:01

Brian:  @TexasFan: Texas just threw another pick. The Horns are winning 24-17

10:03

40acressports:  HUGE penalty call against the Horns. Turns 3rd and 19 into an auto first down. #UT

10:04

40acressports:  Muckelroy with some NECESSARY roughness on that screen pass. Big hit. #UT

10:05

40acressports:  How about that first sack of the YEAR!!>?? Kindle with the huge hit and fumble by Tech. TEXAS FOOTBALL! #UT

10:05

atrubow:  WOW! The Texas defense is laying the wood right now. #ut #horns

10:05

suzhalliburton:  Kindle gets his first sack of season and a forced fumble. Fumble hog Sam Acho gets his fourth of season. #ut

10:05

insidetexas:  Undetered by the refs attempting to turn this from a football game into a teaparty, Kindle gets his first sack with a HUGE hit.

10:05

atrubow:  I’m starting to get confused exactly what is helmet to helmet? Anybody? Bueller? Bueller? #ut #horns

10:05

[Comment From Chris] Both teams are suffering from serious mental breakdowns

10:05

[Comment From JavaH] Texas is starting to lose it, get your mind back please!!

10:06

[Comment From Chris] What a hit by Muckelroy to blow up the screen.

10:06

[Comment From Chris] The physicality of Texas has just aqsserted itself. Muckelroy and Kindle on consecutive plays

10:06

Brian:  Texas really really really needs 6 here.

10:06

40acressports:  Kindle absolutely MURDERED Potts. Musberger wants them to play touch football. Bah. #UT #40

10:07

TheCBB:  @40acressports by rule that is an illegal hit #UT #40

10:07

missyleyva:  RT @40acressports: Kindle absolutely MURDERED Potts. Musberger wants them to play touch football. Bah. #UT #40

10:08

40acressports:  Wow. How about some holding calls against Tech please?? Another holding call against Texas.

10:08

[Comment From Chris] I don’t understand the argument for an illegal hit. He didn’t lead with the helmet, and it wasn’t helmet on helmet. He put his helmet on the ball

10:09

Brian:  Okay I get trying to use some clock here, but Texas has to score. 3rd and goal. Come on Colt.

10:09

40acressports:  Whoops. Like being wrong in this case. Just assumed it was hold, instead hands to face by Tech player gives #UT a 1st down.

10:11

justinscarb:  Kindle absolutely MURDERED Potts. Musberger wants them to play touch football. Bah. #UT #40 (via @40acressports)

10:12

Brian:  Huge 3rd down ladies and gentlemen. Let’s go Horns.

10:13

[Comment From Chris] Dangerous play call by Davis… TT didn’t need to respect teh run… But Colt converts with a laser to Buckner corssing at the end line.

10:14

Brian:  @Chris: I think if Tech had spread too far out Colt calls his own number there and runs draw up the middle.

10:14

40acressports:  Dan Buckner has become a MAN. How about that kid? Great job getting open in back of end zone and then catching Colt’s pass for TD. #UT #40

10:14

Brian:  Texas 31, Texas Tech 17

10:15

insidetexas:  McCoy hits Buckner in the back of the end zone, TD Texas. 31-17

10:17

[Comment From Chris] Curious call by Ruffin. Empty backfield, but he only sent four down linemen on the rush. COlt had time and picked apart the Tech zone

10:17

[Comment From Chris] @Brian. Indeed. The Raiders dropping back in coverage seemed to all by spying Colt, waiting for the draw. This allowed Buckner to slip across behind them

10:18

40acressports:  Sergio Kindle is now using his speed to run right around Tech tackles. #UT

10:19

40acressports:  Texas defense better keep up pressure on Potts. #UT corners palying super soft again giving up easy catches.

10:21

[Comment From Chris] I think it’s obvious that Muschamp has emphasized turnover creation. Players are really trying to strip the ball.

10:21

40acressports:  Keep complaining about cushion #UT is giving Tech wideouts, but every def coordinator Texas has had has done it. Chizik, Akina, Muschamp.

10:22

Brian:  Tech drives quickly down the field in little over 2 minutes and makes this a one score game again. Sheesh. Texas 31, Texas Tech 24

10:22

[Comment From Derek] This is killing me. Come on defense!!

10:23

suzhalliburton:  Texas defense doesn’t like to live with prosperity, giving up an 88-yard drive so that Tech could cut the lead to 31-24. #UT

10:25

[Comment From JavaH] @Derek It is killing me too : (

10:26

[Comment From Chris] Texas trades the long TD play for te long TD drive by playing conservatively.

10:26

Brian:  Tre Newton running well.

10:28

40acressports:  Finally a running threat. Opening up the passing game too. First time all night Shipley has been so open. #UT

10:29

[Comment From Chris] That delay was a tempo killer, but Chiles comes up with a good run after teh catsh

10:30

Brian:  Nothing doing on 3rd and 2. Texas will have to try field goal to stretch lead to 10.

10:30

[Comment From Chris] Herbstreit’s comparison to Emmit Smith is looking more and more astute.

10:32

insidetexas:  Texas held on third down after a pair of blocking breakdowns. FG good. Texas still up two scores with 3:49 to go. 34-24 #ut

10:32

40acressports:  Wish on 2nd & 1 and 3rd & 2 the Horns had just gone jumbo and stuffed Cody Johnson down Tech’s throats. #UT takes 10 pt lead.

10:33

Brian:  Nice rest for Texas defense, maybe front 4 can now go after the QB with some fire. Let’s go Kindle!

10:35

40acressports:  Run that clock. COme on!!

10:36

programwitch:  Been watching, Kiba, via @TheAnimeNetwork DirecTV onDemand. Didn’t see #40 in list. So I watched 41 anyway. Kiba big thumbs up.

10:36

40acressports:  Offensive pass interference is a HUGE penalty. Probably a 30 yd penalty. Ouch. Big break for #UT

10:38

40acressports:  brent Musberger sneezing. #UT

10:39

insidetexas:  Texas corners make up for previous drive in a big way. Turnover on downs. That’s all she wrote, folks. #ut

10:39

40acressports:  On most important pass of the night, Curtis Brown and Nolan Brewster with great coverage to break up 4th down Tech pass. #UT

10:39

[Comment From Chris] What a disappointing end to that drive. Tech loaded the box in anticipation of the run and their #52 easily beat a bad double team by the left side of the Texas line and met Newton at teh line of scrimmage.

10:39

[Comment From Chris] That was a bad breakdown by Ulatoski and the LG

10:40

40acressports:  Colt McCoy and the Longhorns in victory formation. Texas Tech now out of time outs. Just a couple more kneel downs. #UT

10:41

suzhalliburton:  That’s the game.

10:41

insidetexas:  Final: Texas 34, Texas Tech 24

10:41

40acressports:  Attention Brent Musberger, if you’re quoting Lou Holtz something is desperately wrong. #UT

10:42

[Comment From Mandy] Score

10:42

[Comment From Chris] Thre games in a row that Texas has failed to cover the spread. I think everyone must be wondering where the Texas offense has gone. Surely the loss of Quan Cosby can’t account for the entire difference. But this is an offense stil searching fr an identity and a rythm.

10:45

Brian:  @Chris: WHo gives a crap about the spread. See what happened to USC today? Just win baby! Texas offense looked much better in 2nd half and maybe, just maybe, found a running back in Tre Newton. Let’s hope they start off strong next time out instead of waiting till second half.

10:47

Brian:  Final Score: Texas 34, Texas Tech 24

10:48

Brian:  Thanks for participating. Big win for Texas. See you next week. Hook ‘em!

10:48

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Texas will need Colt McCoy's arm and his legs to outscore Texas Tech Saturday night.

The Texas Longhorns have already played two games, but the season really gets started tonight as they take on the Texas Tech Red Raiders in a primetime matchup on ABC. The Horns are looking for revenge and more importantly the number 2 team in the country is looking to get another win closer to a BCS title shot.

Check out our keys below to beating Mike Leach on International Talk Like a Pirate Day:

1. Pressure QB Taylor Potts with a 4-man rush.

There’s two things you can’t do against the Tech offense: let the quarterback have all day to throw or blitz too often. If you give Potts too much time to throw he’ll be able to take his time and pick apart the defense underneath. If you send extra blitzers at him he can quickly get the ball out and you better cross your fingers the defensive backs don’t miss a tackle. The ideal is that your front four are able to get consistent pressure without bringing extra help, but with playing defensive end and drawing things up you’ll likely see Texas bring 3-5 rushers from all over the field. Through two games Kindle is still looking for his first sack of the season, will he blow up the Texas Tech offense tonight?

2. Call just enough designed Colt McCoy runs.

McCoy had -3 rushing yards in the first game and 44 yards in the second on very few designed QB runs. When the offense was sputtering against Wyoming in the 2nd and 3rd quarter, offensive coordinator Greg Davis called Colt’s number to kick start the offense. Tonight against the Red Raiders they’ll likely need that boost from the very beginning and we should see McCoy run some QB draws, the zone read, and the option. McCoy is the franchise and you have to protect him, but this offense isn’t as explosive without him running the football.

3. Commit fewer than 5 penalties.

Through two games the Longhorns have been flagged for 19 penalties, and that doesn’t count penalties that the opponents declined. Those kind of unforced mistakes will kill you in a close contest. Penalties wiped several big 3rd down conversions off the board against , that can’t happen against higher quality Big 12 opponents. Defensively, the last thing you want to do against Texas Tech’s offense is give them extra chances.

So much for Internet rumors. Reportedly (by several sources) considered the biggest longshot of the three Longhorns in academic limbo to regain his eligibility, senior cornerback has been cleared to play by the NCAA. He is eligible to play this weekend against .

From the official university press release:

The NCAA academic eligibility issues for University of Texas senior cornerback Deon Beasley have been resolved. Beasley will be eligible to play immediately, beginning with tomorrow’s Texas Tech game. There is no update on the two other players with unresolved NCAA academic eligibility issues.

Before his status came into question Beasley was working as the team’s fourth corner. No official information

Well this weekend is the game we have been waiting for since last season. Texas versus Texas Tech in a huge revenge game. Honestly there really isn’t much else on this Saturday, so make sure to plan your day around the night game. Let’s see what else can fill the time:

Tennessee at (1) Florida (-30) – 3:30 PM EST on CBS. I don’t expect this to be much of a game (either does Vegas), but I am interested in seeing how serious Florida takes this game after the comments Lane Kiffin made last season towards Urban Meyer and his team. Florida has probably had this game pinned up in their locker room for quite some time now, and they will probably take out all of their frustrations on a weak Tennessee team. Enjoy the beautiful CBS HD picture and take Florida in this one.

(19) Nebraska at (13) Virginia Tech (-5) – 3:30 PM EST on ESPN. If you are looking for a physical game, this is the one for you. Both of these defenses fly around the ball and expect to see many big collisions. This is Nebraska’s first big test of the season and I think they will get off to a slow start. Virginia Tech is really tough to beat at home, and with an early lead I expect them to cruise to victory. Take Virginia Tech and give the points.

Texas Tech at (2) Texas (-18) – 8:00 PM EST on ABC. One question I have hear is how badly do we have to beat them in order to stop seeing the Michael “Oh My Phong is Ringing” Crabtree highlight from last year? My guess is 30, and honestly that could happen tomorrow. Muschamp has had a whole year to prepare for this game and I think our defense is faster and smarter from a year ago. Taylor Potts may be like Chuck Norris and we know how crazy the Tech fans can get, but I think Texas pulls away easily late in the game. Take Texas and give the points.

The Longhorns will be near full strength when they take the field for an early start to Big 12 conference play. Only two players are listed as out on the official injury report for the game Saturday night against . Linebacker is out with a shoulder injury and freshman offensive lineman will miss the game due to a foot injury.

Both players were injured in the season opener and also missed last week’s game against . Norton’s shoulder was originally reported as not being serious but he’s now missed two games and his status is one to keep an eye on.

The biggest news may be one name not on the list, tailback is listed on the depth chart and will finally make his debut against the Red Raiders. Good luck to Fozzy, hopefully he finally stays healthy enough to get his chance.

Who knew Texas coach was also a musical genius? In a hilarious new ESPN GameDay commercial Mack strums a guitar and sings Texas Fight with the crew before Kirk Herbstreit screws it up:

Funny stuff. ESPN GameDay will be on campus this Saturday for the game. The show will be on UT’s South Mall starting at 9am, so be sure to get to bed early Friday night so you can show your spirit (and of course clever signs.)

Texas coach Mack Brown talks about the game and looks towards this week’s match-up:

11. Taylor Potts will break every collegiate record known to man, afterwards go undrafted in the NFL, and then end up working at a car dealership.

Can Texas make it through their schedule and back to the Rose Bowl for another MNC?

It’s about that time to start sizing up the college football season, so here’s my rundown of games on the Longhorns schedule, in order from easiest to hardest. These rankings take each team’s projected strength, plus the location and timing of the game.

12. (Sept 5)

Why they’re here: Because this is a gimmie game. Don’t kid yourself; this is the Glass Joe on our schedule. In their two games versus big-time teams last year (Auburn and Ole Miss) the Warhawks were outscored 93-0. Best of luck fellas!

Why they’re not higher: Because they finished 4-7 last year and the game is at home. Seriously, the Christians walking into the Coliseum to face Lions had more of a chance. On the bright side, this may be our first glimpse at the QB of the future Garret Gilbert.

11. At (Sept 12)

Why they’re not here: Okay, this team is also Glass Joe… but playing at home in what should be the biggest game in their history. Sorry that’s all I got.

Why they’re not higher: Because the got pounded by the “big boys” in the WAC last year (TCU, Utah, BYU) by a combined score of 129-14. Bite the curb, and tell us how it tastes. We’ll try and not make you look too bad in front of your parents.

10. (Sept 26)

Why they’re here: Yes, they are a small conference school, but they have a coach who guided his previous team to two Rose Bowls. Don’t underestimate the importance of coaching in college football.

Why they’re not higher: Because when you move past the coach, this is still the same team we beat 42-13 in El Paso last year. And there won’t be any chicks giving their boyfriends hand favors on the mountain to distract our defense this year.

9. (Nov 7)

Why they’re here: They gave us a hell of a tussle in their place a couple of years ago. More than any “gimme” in the schedule, they probably believe they can beat us. Plus, given where they fall on the schedule (between Oklahoma State and Baylor) our boys could be due for a letdown.

Why they’re not higher: Because they lost to UTEP by 45 points last year. THE END.

8. Colorado (Oct 10)

Why they’re here: Because their coach is pretty damn good, and they play division one football there. Not intramurals brother…

Why they’re not higher: Because we smoked their ass last year, and this team traditionally is not great away from Boulder. Seriously, look it up: the school’s biggest three wins since joining the Big 12 have either come at home or on the a neutral site. Danger Dan Hawkins, danger!!!

7. At (Oct 24)

Why they’re here: Because last year at this time, people were picking them as a National title contender. Sure they lost a bunch of talent, but I’m sure Pinkle has a bunch of talent ready to shine, right?

Why they’re not higher: Wrong. Sorry, but Chase Daniels was special (for Missouri at least) and Jeremy Maclin and Chase Coffman are NFL talents. So far, Missouri hasn’t shown the ability to reload and keep pace in the Big 12.

6. (Sept 19)

Why they’re here: Because they beat us last year, and are always a tough out. Tech is the most hit-or-miss team in the country: when they’re off they can lose to SMU, when they’re on they can beat Oklahoma or Texas…

Why they’re not higher: at home. Sorry, I should have finished that thought. Look it up, Tech’s biggest wins in the last few years have come in Lubbock. Factor in that they will be working in a new starting quarterback, and the timing of this game is the final nail in the Red Raiders coffin. Don’t underestimate the “revenge” factor working in Texas’ favor.

5. At Texas A&M (Nov 26)

Why they’re here: It’s the Aggies; they have one good game in them a year and they always seem to save it for “t.u.”. They also will be playing at home and have the benefit of the 12th Man, plus they have a former NFL coach at the helm and a better-than-you-think reservoir of talent.

Why they’re not higher: Because the reservoir doesn’t run THAT deep. Look at the rankings, the Ags recruiting fell off mightily during the Fran tenure (or as they call it on Texags.com “the Dark Ages”). Plus the fact that the Horns seniors are 1-2 versus the Ags will provide a little extra motivation. A+M will really need the 12th Man… hell, they might even need to grab a 13th and 14th while they’re at it.

4. At (Nov 11)

Why they’re here: Because the Bears have the fastest collection of skill players in the Big 12 (no really!), and now their Freshman All-American QB Robert Griffin has a full year starting under his belt. If you recall, the Bears battled back to tie the score at 14 in Austin last year before Texas pulled away. I just have the feeling that Art Briles has one major upset in him next year… and A&M doesn’t count.

Why they’re not higher: Because playing Baylor on the road is only slightly more difficult than playing them at home. Waco is basically a stone’s throw from Austin, relatively speaking, so the crowd will be 40% Horn fans at worst. Plus, Colt McCoy’s girlfriend will be in attendance, so he’ll be extra motivated. Wouldn’t you be?

3. (Nov 21)

Why they’re here: Because Kansas is good, that’s why… potentially REALLY good. Todd Ressing is a top 10 quarterback nationally, and Kerry Meier and Dezmon Briscoe form the conference’s best 1-2 punch on the outside. The Jayhawks’ falloff last year can directly be attributed to the defense, which should be much improved this fall.

Why they’re not higher: Because the game is in Austin and an improved Kansas squad is still a notch below what the Horns will line up with. The Texas D, playing without All-American Brian Orakpo, shut down the Jayhawks last season holding them to a season-low 7 points. Plus the timing of this game likely means the Horns will either be locked in on a BCS berth, or at the very worst trying to salvage the Cotton Bowl; regardless, it is unlikely they will have their guard down coming into this game.

2. (Oct 17)

Why they’re here: This is always the game of the year in the Big 12 conference, but with all the late season debate and hoopla last year, this game’s intensity has been ratcheted up to another level. The Sooners are they only team quite in UT’s weight class on the schedule, and like it or not, they’re won the last three conference championships. The offense is manned by Heisman winner Sam Bradford and All-American Jermaine Gresham (who’s caught three touchdowns in his career versus the Horns), and their defense looks both deep and talented. Plus they have Ryan Reynolds back, who’s like the greatest football player ever!

Why they’re not higher: No, really he’s not. This is still the same defense that Colt hung 38 on last season, and Greg Davis seems to have Brent Venerables’ number. The Sooners’ also lost four starters on the offensive line along with their top two receivers, so Bradford won’t likely duplicate his numbers from last year. And to be honest, all the extra motivation is on Texas’ side: they beat OU, OU gets the BCS title shot and Bob Stoops crows and taunts by taking some less-so-subtle shots at Mack Brown. It’ll be a battle, but Texas looks to be a little stronger than 08, whereas OU looks to have taken a slight step back.

1. (Oct 31)

Why they’re here: 26. That’s the combined halftime deficits the Horns have faced their last two trips to Stillwater. I don’t know if it’s something in the water or what, but our boys always seem to stumble through the first half, only setting the stage for a thrilling comeback. This team is too good for us to spot double digits in the first half, plus the Horns will be coming off one huge game (Oklahoma) and one somewhat tough road game (Missouri) the two previous weeks; can they be at their best three weeks in a row?

A lot of things about this scenario bring back memories from Lubbock last year.