What we learned about Texas after a win over Vanderbilt in Nashville

Texas' hard-fought road win over Vanderbilt showed resilience and potential, but also highlighted areas that need improvement. This game demonstrated Texas' ability to overcome adversity, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses and providing a clear roadmap for what needs to be addressed heading into the bye week. Here's a detailed look at what we learned.

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attack

• Dominance on the perimeter: Texas' speed and athleticism on the outside were big assets. Once the offense found its rhythm, it looked dominant, especially at the rim, where it used its physical advantages to bolster Vanderbilt's defense. This mismatch allowed Texas to effectively exploit gaps and showcase the impact of its talented players.

• Inconsistency and self-inflicted mistakes: Despite moments of control, the Texas offense struggled with penalties and turnovers that affected their momentum. These mistakes often stalled drives and prevented Texas from capitalizing on big plays. This inconsistency points to the need for better communication, discipline and composure to maintain drive, especially against stronger opponents.

• Quinn Ewers' recovered performance: After a challenging game against Georgia, Ewers bounced back. He showed better poise in the pocket and showed mobility. While still under pressure, Ewers' resolve improved.

• The versatility of the running backs with room for growth: Texas' running backs opened the game with hard runs and dodges, setting a tough, physical tone. Her ability to convert on third-and-long plays also highlighted her versatility and kept Vanderbilt's defense guessing. However, they occasionally overran the designated lanes and bounced outwards unnecessarily, which resulted in a few holding penalties. Improving their patience and field awareness to hit the lanes effectively will be crucial to refining their game.

• Breakout performances from receivers: Matthew Golden electrified the game with a one-handed touchdown grab, while DeAndre Moore had a breakout game, hauling in a slot fade for a TD and gaining yards after the catch with bold, decisive play. Moore's ability to compete for extra yardage showed his value as a reliable, tough player who consistently contributes but also has the ability to make explosive plays.

• Inconsistent offensive line play: The OL showed some strong moments but struggled overall due to penalties, with some questionable holding patterns disrupting their rhythm. These penalties, coupled with inconsistent blocking, hindered a more dominant offensive performance. Maintaining discipline on the line and building consistency will be critical for Texas to maintain its physical, balanced offense.

defense

• Strong reaction from the defensive line: After a difficult first drive, Texas' defensive line adjusted well, particularly in containing Vanderbilt's QB Diego Pavia in terms of options and rollouts. Although Trey Moore didn't record a sack, his disruptive presence was felt throughout the game, highlighting his value as a defensive leader capable of limiting the opponent's options.

• High intensity play from the linebackers: The linebackers brought energy and aggression, flying around the field to make critical tackles and limit Vanderbilt's offensive rhythm. Concerns about their gap management were unfounded as they defended the run effectively and showed keen awareness in the passing lanes. Their performance solidified Texas' defensive standard and highlighted the unit's depth and speed.

• Physical and tactical presence of the secondary: The Texas secondary played tough downhill football, stepping up to score big and challenge Vanderbilt's passing game. Her ability to get her hands on the ball, anticipate plays and be strong in coverage enhanced the physicality Texas seeks in the backfield.

• Jelani McDonald's promising debut: In his first start, McDonald impressed with his physical tackling and field awareness, justifying the coaching staff's high expectations of him. Veteran Michael Taaffe continued to lead by example, always being in the right place at the right time and causing turnovers with forced fumbles and timely interceptions. Taaffe's leadership and awareness were invaluable to the defense, ensuring they remained disciplined and well-coordinated.

Special teams

• An unpredictable excursion: Texas' special teams performance was mixed. The second leg remains exciting, but repeated holding penalties erased significant gains and robbed Texas of its field position. Silas Bolden's fair catching decisions, coupled with inconsistent punting, highlighted the need for improved situational awareness and consistency. Special teams will be the focus during the bye week to prevent these mistakes from impacting close games later.

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All in all, take away

This road win was a testament to Texas' mental toughness as they overcame mistakes and rose to the challenge. The victory demonstrated growth and resilience and proved that Texas would not allow a previous defeat to affect their focus. As the bye week begins, the team has a valuable opportunity to regroup, address discipline issues and improve special teams execution. With a focus on fundamentals, improved consistency and healthier bodies, Texas is well-positioned to push for a strong finish as it approaches crucial games in its postseason path.