Texas three and outs offensively are ‘a blinking light’

Texas Longhorns offensive struggles are glaring, despite their star-studded roster. With head coach Steve Sarkisian, senior quarterback Arch Manning, and a galaxy of skilled players, the team has gone three and out on 13 of 27 possessions in SEC play, the worst rate in the conference. Head coach Sarkisian likened the frequency of these three and outs to a blinking light on grandma’s Christmas tree, expressing concern over the team's performance.

The team possesses the necessary ingredients for success, including a strong scheme, capable players, and a solid attitude. However, their conversion rate on third downs has been a significant issue, particularly after a strong start to the season. In the last two games, Texas converted only 23.1 percent of its third downs. Against a manageable third down average of 6.3 yards, the team failed to convert on several opportunities, leading to unnecessary three and outs.

In addition to the third-down struggles, Texas' inability to gain consistent first downs has been a major concern. On six of its 12 drives, Texas failed to convert first downs, resulting in unnecessary three and outs. One of the two first-down sacks in the Tennessee game stalled a drive, while the bigger issue was the team's inability to run the ball on first down.

With 16 rushing attempts, the Longhorns gained only 27 total yards, an abysmal average of 1.7 yards per carry. The two first-down sacks had a significant impact on drives. After a strong opening drive, Texas suffered its first three and out after a pass play failed due to slow activation by right tackle Melvin Siani. The second sack, caused by a poor overload blitz, led to another three and out.

On the next drive, the inability to execute effectively cost Texas the chance to recover after an interception. In the second half, a positive first-down play was followed by a costly failure to block, leading to a three and out. Despite better execution in the third quarter, the team's inability to gain consistent first downs resulted in another three and out.

Against Oklahoma, Texas went three and out on 7 of 15 drives, despite having better success running the ball on first down. The slow start against Tennessee contributed to the team's struggles, with only a single positive run on the opening drive.