Steve Sarkasian’s first season at Texas brings excitement and expectation. Sark has enjoyed a well-traveled career, with his latest stint at Alabama providing optimism for the Longhorns going forward. Heading into his new regime, he’ll have a few key pieces already in play and ready to win. We take a look at the five key returning players for the Texas Longhorns this season.
Five Key Returning Players For The Texas Longhorns
Honorable Mention: Cameron Dicker – K, SR
Cameron Dicker will be remembered by Longhorn fans forever for his heroics against Oklahoma. Only six games into his freshman season, Dicker came through with ice in his veins, and knocked the Sooners out of the top-five. He’s had an up-and-down career, but the presence of a veteran, battle-tested kicker shouldn’t be overlooked.
DeMarvion Overshown – LB, SR
A switch from defensive back to linebacker led to the breakout of DeMarvion Overshown in the 2020 season. After tallying 60 tackles, two interceptions and forced fumbles apiece, and leading Texas pass breakups (seven), Overshown capped off the year by earning Alamo Bowl Defensive MVP honors. He had his best game in the Red River Showdown against Oklahoma, recording 11 tackles and an interception. He’s on the Butkus Award preseason watch list, and he’ll undoubtedly be the leader and most important piece to the Longhorn defense.
Bijan Robinson – RB, SO
Bijan Robinson broke through as a true freshman last year, and handled the workload down the stretch, starting the final six games. He rushed for an impressive 703 yards on just 86 carries, and scored six touchdowns, four rushing and two receiving. He rushed for 113 yards against Oklahoma State, and he ran for a career-high 172 yards against Kansas State in the regular season finale. Robinson saved his best for last, gaining over 200 yards in the bowl victory over former Big XII foe Colorado. Robinson would be named Valero Alamo Bowl Offensive MVP for his efforts. His big-play ability could be on full display this season. He’s on the watch list for both the Maxwell and Doak Winner Awards, and his breakout led to former starter Keontay Ingram transferring to USC.
Derek Kerstetter – OT, SR
Derek Kerstetter is the team’s most experienced and versatile lineman. The captain in the trenches has always played a vital role to the Longhorn offense. Now it’s Kerstetter’s turn in his senior season. He’s expected to return to his starting role at right tackle in 2021 after starting eight games at center last season. A gruesome ankle injury against Kansas State ended his year prematurely, but the fifth-year senior will be the glue to Texas’ offensive line. Kerstetter has played in 46 games with 37 starts over his collegiate career.
Josh Thompson, DB, SR
The departure of stud safety Caden Sterns means Josh Thompson will be the leader in the secondary. The fifth-year defensive back rebounded from an injury-filled 2019 to start all ten games last year. He’ll be thrusted into a bigger role this season, but he should be ready for it. Thompson has played in 36 games with 13 starts over the course of his career.
Joshua Moore, WR
After redshirting during his sophomore season, Joshua Moore broke out during his junior season. The 6’1 wideout started all ten games and led the Longhorns with 30 receptions for 472 yards, and nine touchdowns. He scored three times in the comeback victory over Texas Tech, and he earned All-Big 12 honorable mention at the end of the season. Look for big things from Texas’ new number one receiver.
