On offense, the primary key for the Cowboys this Saturday will be to establish a running game. Texas defensive coordinator Todd Orlando’s scheme is very similar to that of Iowa State’s, in that they are primarily in a three defensive linemen-front.
If teams are unable to run against the three lineman-look, the Longhorns can drop eight into coverage and make it extremely difficult for offenses to move the ball through the air. Last year against UT, Justice Hill and J.D. King combined for only 3.6 yards per carry. Since Oklahoma State was unable to find success on the ground, Texas was able to focus on limiting the Cowboys’ high-powered passing attack.