Texas Football: 2017 Season preview, predictions and more

Defense

Defense in the Big 12 shouldn’t be evaluated like it is in the Big 10 or the SEC. But the numbers can’t be completely ignored. One of the reasons Strong isn’t coaching in Austin this year is the ugliness of the Longhorn’s defensive numbers in 2016. Texas finished No. 94 in the nation in total defense (448.3 yards per game allowed) and No. 90 in scoring defense (31.5 points allowed per game).

Texas stands to make a significant improvement against the run in 2017. They return a likely 2018 first round NFL draft selection in Malik Jefferson as well as Anthony Wheeler and sack-master Breckyn Hager. Don’t be surprised if Gary Johnson, the top rated linebacker in the class of 2017, competes for a starting position right out of the gate and turns some heads.

Improved secondary play

There is also hope for the Longhorn secondary. The ‘Horns are led by jack-of-all-trades defensive back John Bonney. A redshirt junior, Bonney saw playing time at what might as well have been every position in the secondary last year. His versatility will go a long way in helping the new coaching staff evaluate the secondary.

After being reinserted at corner following the Oklahoma game, Bonney was credited with nine passes defended. That was tied for fifth most in the Big 12. He’s quick. He has experience. And he’s going to be asked to do a lot for Texas this fall.

New defensive coordinator Todd Orlando could be the biggest boost to the burnt orange defense. Orlando’s defense in Houston was known for their tenacity. The Cougars finished fourth in the nation in rushing defense, 51st in passing defense, and 30th in scoring defense. That included a 36-10 dismantling of No. 5 Louisville and a 33-23 win over No. 3 Oklahoma. Orlando’s defense came up big in big games. A key forced fumble of fourth down stop could be enough for the Longhorns to earn a few monumental victories in 2017.