Game Awards: Houston
Jonathon Brooks carried the brunt of the load on the final scoring drive that proved to be the difference. Can’t overstate how huge he has been for the Horns. Photo: Troy Taormina, USA Today
Offensive Player of the Game
Jonathon Brooks, RB (So.) - This is becoming a theme, isn’t it? While Brooks didn’t quite eclipse my prediction of 100 rushing yards (he had 99), he tacked on another 51 receiving yards on 8 catches for a 150 yard total. When this team needs a spark or a big drive, he is the guy we’ve gone to time and time again. Will need to continue to lean on him with Ewers out for extended time.
Michael Taaffe collects an INT off Houston QB Donovan Smith late in the 4th quarter, proving to be a critical turnover for Texas. Photo: Maria Lysaker, USA Today
Defensive Player of the Game
Michael Taaffe, DB (So.) - Taaffe led the team with 8 tackles and had a crucial interception in the end zone late in the game. The sophomore has shown more and more promise throughout the year. The Texas secondary needs his contribution as injuries have continued to mount.
Xavier Worthy hauled in 6 passes for 92 yards including this beauty for a touchdown. Photo: Troy Taormina, USA Today
Play of the Game
Xavier Worthy, WR (Jr.), 42-yard touchdown reception - This moment came on a perfectly thrown ball from Ewers early in the game - as he hit Worthy in stride for the 42 yard score. The ball was floated perfectly over the defender for X to corral it and run into the end zone as Texas went up 14-0 at that point. It’s the type of throw from Ewers that we’re going to miss over the next few weeks.
Savion Red proved to be a spark plug for the Longhorns on Saturday, bringing the energy and effort they needed to win. Photo: Eric Christian Smith, Associated Press
HIM of the Game - This award goes to the player showing the most toughness, grit, and true Texas Fight in a winning effort
Savion Red, RB (So.) - The Wildcat package proved to be huge for Texas as Red had his most impactful performance yet with a pair of 4th down conversions and a touchdown. In just 3 carries, he provided the Horns with the kind of lift they needed on those crucial downs, especially as the game ended coming down to one score. He also proved how much he cares about this team in his emphatic celebrations after the play. It’s these type of players that Texas will need to continue to step up if we want to see this team keep winning.
Hook ‘em.
