The Longhorns will have a lot to clean up after giving up that 16-point fourth-quarter lead but the Texas defense put the team in position to win through three quarters. From consistent pressure on Sam Leavitt, critical fourth-down stops and keeping Arizona State out of the end zone, the Longhorns’ defense more than did its part for the majority of the game.
The breakdowns late were a problem. Giving up the fourth-down Cam Skattebo touchdown pass, the backbreaking penalties and allowing Leavitt room to scramble and make plays on the run really hurt Texas. But the unit was resilient and the game-sealing interception by Andrew Mukuba gives the defense a chance to redeem itself in the semifinals.
At the game’s end, Texas gave up 510 yards, by far a season high. A mixed bag for sure after such a strong performance for more than half the game. Bottom line, the Longhorns have to do better late in the game if they intend to continue advancing through the bracket.
