By Ernie Gonzalez (@superego1012):
San Jose State (1-1, 0-0 MW) will hit the road for the first time this season as it will be in Austin over the weekend for an epic test against the University of Texas (0-1, 0-0 Big 12).
The stadium volume will rise just a scratch for the Spartans after playing in front of 10-15,000 fans in weeks one and two to 100,000 fans when inside Texas Memorial Stadium.
It’s the first ever meeting between the two programs, however the two aren’t complete strangers.
Last season, SJSU offensive coordinator Andrew Sowder, the youngest OC in college football at 28, was an offensive assistant coach for the Longhorns.
Head coach Brent Brennan knows Sowder still has some ties not only to the team, but to the state of Texas.
“He’s the only one on the coaching staff with cowboy boots in his locker,” Brennan said jokingly on Tuesday.
All-time, the Spartans have won three of 10 games against teams in the Big 12. On the other side, the Longhorns have only lost one game ever to a Mountain West opponent, going 13-1 against the conference since it was founded in 1999.
Brennan made it clear that the biggest hurdle for the team Saturday will be the crowd. The only way to handle the crowd however, is by playing football.
“Our players will be excited to play. It’s an incredible challenge. Any chance you get to line up against the best, it’s a chance to prove yourself,” Brennan said.
When you handle the game, the environment will handle itself.
Ironically, it’s won’t be the Spartans asking the “who’s QB” question come Saturday, but the Longhorns.
Montel Aaron will make the biggest start of his life and what better opportunity to yell hike against a glow of burnt Longhorn orange.
Texas’ Sophomore quarterback Shane Buechele has not participated in team practices this week after suffering a bruise on his throwing shoulder in the home opener against Maryland.
He finished the game, at one point throwing 12 consecutive completions even after the injury. Longhorn head coach Tom Herman and his training staff are airing on the side of caution though and wouldn’t hesitate to start true Freshman Sam Ehlinger.
Seems to be a game-time decision for the Longhorns at QB.
Kickoff is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. PT Saturday afternoon.