How Texas’ defense became one of the best in the country

AUSTIN (KXAN) – In four games, the Texas defense has allowed just 22 points. That’s a pretty astoundingly small amount. Per game, the Longhorns have allowed just 5.5 points on average to their opponent.

Granted pretty much everything Texas has done this year has worked, but still the defense has stood out in particular.

“It’s all a mentality,” said senior EDGE Barryn Sorrell. “Every time somebody snaps a ball, we all want to get to the ball. It’s a race. We call it a party. It’s a party at the ball every snap.”

Texas defense held University of Louisiana Monroe to 111 yards, their lowest of the season. That includes just 10 in the second half.

In 2023, Texas defense’s season low was 176 yards allowed and over the first four games, opposing offenses scored 50 points combined.

But this season is different, aside from the stats.

“I feel like we always had the talent, the leadership role,” said senior defensive back Jahdae Barron. “I think it was just honestly the communication…We have that bond with the guys.”

Coach Sark said some focuses for defense going into this season were stopping the run, being violent off the edge and speed off the perimeter.

“I’d say we are pretty fast,” said senior defensive lineman Alfred Collins. “From the [Defensive] line to the cornerbacks and safeties. Coach [Torre] Becton harped on speed and all that in the summer and it’s showing.”

Ahead of the Longhorns’ first year in the SEC, their defense would need to reflect what’s known as the gauntlet of college football.

Per SEC rules, Texas is required to have a nonconference game scheduled against a Power Five opponent from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12 or Pac-12.

When Texas faced the reigning national champions in Michigan, the Longhorns defense shined. Texas held the Wolverines to six points before a late touchdown when the game had already been decided.

“You can see for yourself, everyone is hungry trying to get after the ball,” said senior linebacker David Gbenda. “Also, communication and making sure we are all on the same page.”

Texas will host the Mississippi State at 3:15 p.m. this Saturday, Sept. 28. KXAN’s pregame show Texas Gameday is the official pregame show of Texas football and will air at 2 p.m. on KBVO Saturday.

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