Texas absolutely stomped Texas State on Saturday, kicking off their season with a massive 59-7 triumph at Royal-Memorial Stadium. While the 52-point victory was huge, and Arch Manning threw for 305 yards and four touchdowns on 20 of 27 attempts, the real fireworks came from some fresh faces. Newcomers Cam Coleman and Hollywood Smothers were straight-up electric, making a statement right out of the gate in Austin.
Transfers Show Up in 96-Degree Heat
This wasn’t just a win, it was a statement. The Longhorns added 22 transfers this offseason, and a couple of those guys immediately introduced themselves to the fans who braved that scorching 96-degree heat. Smothers, the North Carolina State transfer, ripped off a ridiculous 45-yard run on UT’s very first snap. Then, after he chewed up another five yards, Coleman, the ex-Auburn standout, hauled in a 6-yard touchdown pass for his first score in burnt orange. Seriously, a four-play scoring drive right off the bat? That’s how you start a season! And let’s not forget Raleek Brown, the former Arizona State Sun Devil, who scored twice himself, including a 13-yard touchdown run in the second quarter and a 21-yard run after Manning was pulled. The defense got in on the action too, forcing three turnovers, with Graceson Littleton returning a fumble 59 yards for a score. Texas was up 28-7 at halftime and never looked back, outscoring Texas State 21-0 in the third quarter.
Hollywood and Coleman Are Already Playing HUGE
These guys didn’t just show up, they *played*. Hollywood Smothers finished the day with 70 rushing yards on 10 carries, plus he caught three passes for 28 yards and punched in a 13-yard touchdown run. Not bad for a debut, huh? And Coleman? He scored on two of his three receptions. We’re talking about immediate impact players here, and they’re just getting started. On defense, Rasheem Biles, a transfer from Pitt, racked up five tackles, an interception, and even forced the fumble that Littleton scooped up for a touchdown. Sterling Berkhalter even got in on the receiving action with 26 yards. This team is already deep, and these transfers are proving they’re ready to contribute big time.
So, Texas (1-0) snagged their fifth season-opening win in Steve Sarkisian’s six-year tenure, and it was his third-biggest blowout. This massive victory sets up a ridiculous home showdown next week with No. 1 Ohio State. You better believe all eyes will be on Austin to see if these newcomers can keep this energy going against the top team in the nation. It’s gonna be a wild one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply