One year removed from throwing 17 interceptions in one of the more *understatement alert!* disappointing seasons in Texas’ football history, quarterback Garrett Gilbert is going to get another chance.
During a teleconference this morning, Longhorns coach Mack Brown said that the junior will be the starting quarterback for UT’s season-opener against Rice (which will be broadcast live to over 25 homes on the Longhorn Network!).
Gilbert, a junior, got the nod over sophomore Case McCoy and freshmen David Ash and Connor Wood, who were all competing for the position during spring and fall practices.
That does not mean, however, that Gilbert will necessarily stay the quarterback. Despite (multiple) cries for a QB change last season, Gilbert was given the benefit by UT’s coaches as a first-year starter succeeding one of the greatest signal callers in the program’s history in Colt McCoy.
Don’t expect Brown or new offensive coordinator Bryan Harsin to be that lenient this season.
“He’s the starting quarterback. If he moves the ball and scores, he’ll keep it,” Brown said.
In the event Gilbert fails at one or both of the above criteria, Case McCoy, tabbed as Gilbert’s backup, will take control of UT’s offense.
And, speaking of younger brothers of former Texas greats, freshman wide receiver Jaxon Shipley -- you may have heard of his brother, Jordan -- has been listed as one of the starters at the wide receiver spot.