Regardless of what side you lean towards in the “Charlie Strong firing” debate, the hire of coach Tom Herman has been a positive boost in Texas recruiting. The former Houston frontman promised a devotion to gathering local talent, nabbing twelve Lone Star student athletes for the upcoming season.
The current class ranks No. 25 nationally and second in the Big-12, boasting six 4-star signees. Three student recently signed as early enrollees; two are local proteges ranking in the upper echelons at their position. Both athletes will compete for starting spots in the upcoming season.
Sam Ehlinger (QB, Westlake)
If you don’t know the Westlake talents’ name by now, you’re not a true fan of Texas HS Football. The dual-threat quarterback’s image graced the cover of Texas Football magazine, eager to lead the Chaps to their first state championship victory since Drew Brees accomplished the feat twenty years ago. The aspirations weren’t fulfilled, Ehlinger was hampered by a thumb, knee and wrist injury, finishing the year early in the postseason after seeing the field only five times.
Despite the limited playing time, Ehlinger still ranked third on his team in total yards, responsible for 1,044 at an astonishing rate of 208.8 yards per game. Ehlinger shined in his junior year, throwing 3,833 yards for 50 touchdowns and rushing 1,360 yards for 20 running scores, leading the Chaps to a UIL State Championship berth.
The shaky nature of UT quarterback Shane Buechele’s health and his inability to move the ball downfield in the last two games of the season could permit the early enrollee a shot at the job. With new OC Tim Beck inheriting the reigns from former coordinator Sterling Gilbert, the role of shot-caller is up for grabs.
Toneil Carter (RB, Langham Creek)
The running back position is a rich destination for student athletes at Texas, regardless of who is calling offensive plays. With D’Onta Foreman relocating from Austin to the prospects of high draft stock in Philadelphia, Chris Warren will likely attempt follow-up the second highest single-season rushing performance in school history.
In other words, Foreman’s cleats will be difficult to fill.
With breakaway speed and positive yardage after initial contact, Carter could make an immediate impact on the roster, pending his performance in training camp. If he does little to warrant a starting nod, the Langham Creek product will redshirt.
Ranked as the nation’s No. 6 running back, per 247 Sports, Carter’s three varsity seasons produced 3,688 yards and 53 scores, rushing just 485 times for the Lobos; his 7.6 yards per carry ranks second amongst top backs. Recruiters applauded his foot speed and reaction time, admiring his capabilities of stopping and starting at full acceleration. The offensive scheme coach Herman runs is nearly identical to the one incorporated by Langham Creek.
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