First Responder bowl devoid of Texas talent

Texas talent is spread far and wide across the collegiate football landscape.

There’s just not much of it in today’s First Responder Bowl in Dallas.

Only two players with ties to Texas high schools will be on the rosters as Western Kentucky faces Western Michigan, and both play for the Hilltoppers.

Sophomore offensive linemen Mason Brooks (Cedar Park) and Garrett Nickelson (Clear Springs) return to the Lone Star State. Brooks appeared in 11 games this season, while Nickelson — a transfer from Blinn Junior College — has two appearances.

Fans of Texas products will be in for a treat later in the day, though. At least 18 players from the state will be suited up when California and Illinois kickoff the Redbox Bowl.