Cromagnum said:
The only key is getting to Arch. Once he gets popped 2-3 times in the backfield, he will make tons of mistakes trying to force plays.
I think that's overly optimistic, but generally the right direction. Texas' o-line has struggled mightily this year; which is the catalyst for most of the bad QB play in the first half of the season. Players and teams grow through the season. Once Texas simplified its offense and found an acceptable o-line rotation, Arch's play improved meaningfully. Pressuring the Texas O-line does in fact remain the key to the game, along with sitting on top of the routes. If Texas cannot manufacture a meaningful run game to keep the A&M defense honest, it narrows the scope of what the Aggies have to worry about.
This game will likely stay closer than most think. Oddly, as much as Texas' offense has improved over the year, its defense; notably its secondary has regressed, particularly in defending between the numbers. Texas has great ends and Linebackers, but its core D-line is designed more for run-containment than QB pressure.
Like most rivalry games, the key is playing clean and not giving your opponent an emotional edge through self inflicted mistakes. I think Reed's scrambling ability will be called upon as the key differentiator.
Last note: anyone who complains about getting jobbed by the refs before the game is simply preparing themselves to have an excuse for a loss. Have more faith in your team. Good luck.
