Texas Longhorns Show Strong Confidence in Freshman RB Jerrick Gibson
AUSTIN – The Texas Longhorns’ running back lineup has seen significant shifts this season, with injuries to CJ Baxter and Christian Clark at the end of training camp. This opened opportunities for Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner, while the team also added SMU transfer Velton Gardner and moved receiver Ryan Niblett to the running back position.
Initially, Blue was viewed as the clear RB1, but freshman Jerrick Gibson led the team in rushing after four games with 42 carries for 210 yards and three touchdowns. However, as SEC play intensified, Wisner took on the starting role, and Gibson’s playing time reduced. In conference matchups, Gibson has logged only six carries for 17 yards and one reception for eight yards, leaving fans wondering about his reduced involvement.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the situation, expressing confidence in Gibson’s potential. “We have a ton of trust in Jerrick,” Sarkisian said on Monday. “As a third running back, sometimes game flow doesn’t allow for as many carries, but he’s a player we believe will continue to grow in our program.”
Despite his reduced role, Gibson has shown his abilities. When Blue was injured against Michigan, Gibson scored a pivotal touchdown during a ground-heavy, 12-play, 76-yard drive. He ended the game with 10 carries for 36 yards in Texas’ 31-12 win. Against UTSA the following week, Gibson posted a career-high 75 yards on 13 carries, leading the team in rushing for the second time in three games, though he also lost a fumble.
Gibson’s next opportunity to contribute will come after the bye week, as Texas hosts the Florida Gators on Saturday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. CT.
