Texas Football: Breaking down Longhorns’ spring 2018 starting QB battle

Sam Ehlinger, Sophomore (6-foot-2, 230 pounds)

A true freshman last season, Ehlinger was thrown into the fire after an injured Buechele could not start the second game of the season against San Jose State.

Ehlinger started six games and played in nine, and continued to show flashes of moxie that Longhorns fans ate up. The gutsy quarterback hasn’t looked back since his firs start and is trying to solidify his claim to the QB1 spot this spring.

While both Herman and quarterback coach Tim Beck haven’t given any official word on who is leading the battle, Ehlinger seems to be the guy both media and fans have their eyes on.

During games he was able to extend plays with his legs that would most likely have gone for a loss with Buechele.

Ehlinger has a knack for pounding through or making his own holes when running with the ball and can evade pressure much more fluidly than Buechele.

Ehlinger also has shown a “no fear” set of leadership skills that Buechele either hasn’t shown yet or just doesn’t have.

He has continued to be the first quarterback on the practice field this spring which many believe is a sign the coaches are favoring him over Buechele.

For Ehlinger to pull away in the race he also has two categories he needs to improve.

1. He needs to improve his accuracy down the field. Last season if you asked the coaches who they trusted more to heave a long ball into a receiver’s hands it would probably have been Buechele.
2. He needs to improve his ball security. No more fumbles at the goal line or end zone interceptions, at least if Ehlinger wants to have a firm hold on the starting position.

According to Herman Ehlinger has shown improvements in his pass accuracy this spring,

"“Sam Ehlinger, I told him today, had his two best throws within the span of five minutes since he’s been here over a year in an 11-on-11 situation. Really ripped the ball in tight windows in a red zone period that both resulted in touchdowns.”"