Snippet from Inside Texas --
Similarly, Texas has three bankable traits working for them every week. Their defensive line play, special teams, and Sam Ehlinger’s steady hand at the helm.
Now getting Ehlinger 63 carries over the last four weeks plus a bunch of extra hits in the pocket have paid an obvious price. Ehlinger missed some first half throws against West Virginia and is missing some burst when he runs, but he had zero turnovers against Oklahoma State or West Virginia while throwing for five touchdowns between the two of them. He’ll get a bye week and then Kansas to help him rest up for the final stretch of Iowa State, at Kansas State, and then potentially the Big 12 championship game with the possibility of another bye beforehand.
Even if he’s beat up though there are three things you get from Ehlinger when he’s on the field. Smart direction of the offense on the field, ball security, and tough inside running in short-yardage. Because all of those things come almost regardless of his relative health, it’s also easier to keep him on the field. A 60-70% Sam Ehlinger can still make a few plays in the air or on the ground while protecting the ball.
