Cody Johnson started at running back for Texas the first game of the 2010 season. Tre’ Newton had the honors this past weekend.
This weekend, the No. 6 Longhorns will have yet another new starter at the position.
Texas released their latest depth chart Monday, and Fozzy Whittaker finds himself as the starter heading into this Saturday’s Big 12 opener with Texas Tech. Whittaker leads the Longhorns in both yards (113) and yards per carry (7.1).
Head coach Mack Brown said the reason for elevating Whittaker to the starting job was a simple one -- production.
“Number one, he was the most productive in the [Wyoming] game and that’s what we’re trying to do,” Brown said on Monday. “We’re trying to keep the hot back in the game. We’re lucky we have three good backs. When he was in the ballgame, he made the most happen. He had 45 yards after contact in this game. He looks really fresh and he’s quick. If we can continue to keep him healthy, he’s been a good player when he’s been healthy.”
All three backs are expected to get their share of carries, but Brown did allow that they will “paly the guy with the hot hand.”
Texas enters the game with the Red Raiders 44th in the country at 182 yards rushing a game. Their 4.85 yards per carry is 46th.
