College

Texas starter arrested, DWI marred Big 12 opener

by
KP Kelly
September 27

Photo via Matthew Emmons – USA Today Images

September 27th, 2016

For a team struggling with youth and inexperience, the loss of senior offensive lineman Kent Perkins doesn’t bode well for the UT Longhorns. After being jailed on a DWI charge Friday morning, Perkins will be suspended for Texas’ Big-12 opener against Oklahoma State. Sophomore Alex Anderson will likely take his place.

According to authorities, Perkins was confronted while asleep in a fast food drive-thru. Police allowed him to leave with a verbal warning, and Perkins promptly crashed his car before driving out of the parking lot.

Which is usually what happens when your breathalyzer reads .175, several digits above the .08 legal limit.

The former Lake Highlands standout was named offensive MVP for the team last season, and has lead an impressive offensive unit under newly hired OC Sterlin Gilbert this season.

Coach Charlie Strong — who recruited Perkins, along with three other players, to accompany him to Dallas for Big 12 media day over the summer — expressed his disappointment in an issued statement.

“We’re disappointed in his actions and take a strong stance against drinking and driving,” Strong said. “When you get behind the wheel after drinking, you not only risk your life, but the lives of others, and that’s something you just can’t do. We will make sure that Kent learns from this and handle any punishment once we have more information.”

A 2013 4-star recruit from Lake Highlands High School, Perkins was the third ranked best offensive tackle in the nation, and 38th best in the nation. This season marks his fourth year as a Longhorn; he’s started 26 games in his Texas career.