Let’s be frank: Texas’ offense has not really shown any of the hoped progression I mentioned in the podcast so far.

One aspect that has hurt Texas is that the playcalling of the offense has been mediocre at best; OC Bryan Harsin has played this one rather safe, seemingly trying to keep Ash from making mistakes. Texas pass offense was way too horizontal in the opening part of the ball game, with a lot of screens and throw back passes being executed. It wasn’t until Texas got a break via a bad punt from Cal that the pass offense began to open up. Quarterback David Ash finally connected with Wide Receiver Jaxon Shipley and Tight End Blaine Irby, helping Texas go 48 yards on 4 plays, capped off with a 4 yard TD pass from Shipley to Ash.

Another is that the Cal defense has played their part well this evening, showing why they are one of the top 30 defenses in the FBS. Texas touted rush attack has only managed 4 total yards in the half. Ash leads the Horns with 10 yards, while Halfbacks Joe Bergeron and Malcolm Brown have combined for 0 yards (Bergeron with 2, Brown -2). While we’re on the subject of defense, give props to DC Manny Diaz and the Texas defense for halting the strong Cal offense in the 1st.

QB Zach Maynard is 9/18 for 67 yards and has thrown for an interception, while Cal’s rush game has likewise been stymied. Isi Sofele has 39 yards, C.J Anderson has 4.

The defenses have ruled the field thus far, with both teams offenses’ struggling mightily all night. What this game will come down to is which defense can continue their excemplary efforts and avoid giving up a big play.

For Texas, the question becomes: If Ash continues to struggle through the air, will Case McCoy get a chance in the 2nd half? He did not see a snap in the 1st, despite Ash’s issues and inefficiencies, much to the chagrin of Longhorn fans. If Ash cannot get things done, McCoy must see the field.