As the Texas Longhorns gear up for the final stretch of the season, one position group has emerged as a critical factor in their success: the running back room. Known for producing elite talents like Ricky Williams, Cedric Benson, and Bijan Robinson, Texas has long been a factory for standout backs. This season, the 2023 Longhorns are continuing that tradition, and the timing couldn’t be better.
With a potent blend of talent, depth, and improved offensive line play, the Longhorn running backs have hit their stride at the perfect moment. Their contributions are not only fueling the team’s playoff push but also providing a balanced attack that makes Texas one of the most dangerous teams in the nation.
Texas boasts one of the most dynamic backfields in college football, featuring a mix of experienced veterans and promising young stars. Leading the charge is Jonathon Brooks, who has been a revelation this season. The junior running back, known for his physicality and vision, has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the top backs in the Big 12.
Complementing Brooks is freshman phenom CJ Baxter. A former five-star recruit, Baxter has shown flashes of brilliance in his debut season, providing a change of pace with his explosive speed and elusiveness. Together, Brooks and Baxter have formed a formidable one-two punch that keeps defenses guessing.
Adding to the depth is Keilan Robinson, a versatile back who excels in passing situations and special teams. Robinson’s ability to contribute as a receiver and blocker has made him an invaluable piece of the offense.
A key factor in the Longhorns’ running game resurgence has been the improvement of the offensive line. Anchored by Kelvin Banks Jr. and Jake Majors, the Texas line has consistently opened up running lanes and provided protection for quarterback Quinn Ewers. The unit’s physicality and cohesion have allowed the backs to operate with confidence and maximize their production.
Offensive coordinator Kyle Flood deserves credit for tailoring the scheme to the strengths of the running backs and linemen. By mixing zone and power concepts, Flood has kept defenses off balance and created opportunities for explosive plays.
The turning point for the Texas running game came in midseason when the Longhorns faced a gauntlet of tough opponents. Against Kansas State and TCU, the backfield delivered clutch performances, grinding out tough yards and controlling the clock. These efforts not only secured key victories but also showcased the unit’s ability to perform under pressure.
As Texas eyes a potential Big 12 Championship and a College Football Playoff berth, the running backs are peaking at the right time. Their performance against rival Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry rematch could be a deciding factor in the team’s postseason fate.
For Texas to achieve its ultimate goals, the running backs must continue to excel. Brooks’ ability to wear down defenses, Baxter’s explosiveness, and Robinson’s versatility make the backfield a true X-factor. Moreover, their success opens up opportunities in the passing game, allowing Ewers and the talented receiving corps to capitalize on mismatches.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian summed it up perfectly: “When we’re running the ball well, everything else in our offense clicks. It’s the foundation of what we do.”
As the Longhorns chase their first playoff appearance in the College Football Playoff era, the running back room is leaving its mark on the program’s storied history. Whether they’re grinding out tough yards or breaking off game-changing runs, this group is proving to be the heart and soul of the Texas offense.
With the playoffs within reach and the backfield firing on all cylinders, the Longhorns are hitting their stride at the perfect time. If they can sustain this momentum, they might just make a serious run at a national championship—and it will be the running backs leading the charge.