A pivotal scrimmage
The University of Texas football program is turning its attention to a live scrimmage at Royal‑Memorial Stadium as the final step in evaluating the new offensive and defensive schemes introduced after full‑pad practices. The closed event, scheduled for Saturday, will give coaches a rare opportunity to see how the revamped units perform under game‑like conditions.
Defensive end Lance Jackson emphasized that the padded session feels more like actual football, allowing players to test tackling technique and situational awareness. The staff is particularly focused on the line’s ability to generate pressure and control the line of scrimmage, a priority after last season’s inconsistencies.
Defensive line and tackling emphasis
Among the defenders, Rasheem Biles, a transfer from Pittsburgh, is being watched closely for his improved tackling and leadership in the linebacker corps. Defensive tackle Justus Terry, a 6‑foot‑5 sophomore from Georgia, is making a case to start alongside senior Hero Kanu, despite a smaller frame than some of the recent transfers.
The competition at defensive tackle also involves Ian Geffrad, but the coaching staff appears to favor the more physically imposing presence of Terry as the season progresses. The new defensive coordinator’s preference for larger linebackers adds another layer to the evaluation of Ty’Anthony Smith, a proven ballhawk with 76 career tackles.
Offensive line competition
On the offensive side, the left guard position is open after several candidates — Trevor Goosby, Connor Robertson, Brandon Baker and Melvin Siani — secured starting roles in previous drills. Returning player Cole Hutson is now back in the mix, battling for the job that will shape the interior of the line.
The offense has been showcasing a physical identity, running the ball on 16 consecutive plays during a recent practice. This approach reflects the team’s intent to establish a dominant ground game early in the season.
Linebackers and scheme fit
The linebacker group brings size through players like Rasheem Biles, Justin Cryer and Brad Spence, addressing a weakness exposed against power‑running teams last year. Their performance in the upcoming scrimmage could determine whether they retain starting spots under the new scheme.
Coaches will also assess how the new defensive coordinator’s philosophy meshes with the existing talent, using the scrimmage as a laboratory for finalizing the depth chart before the season opener.