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Countdown to Kickoff: Breakout Longhorn Sunday on Connor Robertson
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- Countdown to Kickoff: Breakout Longhorn Sunday on Connor Robertson
We've made it under 11 weeks until Texas football is back and it's my favorite day of the week: Breakout Sunday. Today, it's the center Connor Robertson. The fifth-year offensive lineman played in nine games last season, starting seven at center. It was an up-and-down season but I expect him to take a major step forward in his final season.
The Texas offensive line is the major concern around the fanbase. Last season, the unit lacked cohesion and a consistent starting five, which led to consistent breakdowns. Robertson was part of the "best unit" down the stretch of the season, including improving his pass blocking massively in the final month. In the final four games, Robertson gave up zero sacks and zero hits on Arch Manning and had a strong command of the offense.
Heading into this season, I believe Robertson could reach the level Jake Majors set in 2024. He not only improved himself throughout the season but his rapport with Arch Manning improved as well. During this offseason, the duo get to work together and continue to improve their ability to pick up blitzes and identify coverages. Texas fans saw what an elite QB-C duo looks like in 2024 with Ewers-Majors and I believe they'll see it again this season.
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The area that needs the most improvement for Robertson is run blocking. He's not the biggest or strongest player, so his knowledge of the offense and ability to use leverage will be important for him. Given none of the assumed starters on the IOL excel in run blocking, Robertson will have to lead the way and create openings for the Texas RBs.
The Steve Sarkisian offense is best with three things: a dominant X-WR, an experienced QB and a smart center. I believe they have all three this season but the smart center might be the most important of the bunch. Jake Majors was a massive reason Texas went to the CFP in back-to-back seasons. Robertson needs to be a massive reason Texas finds their way back this time around.
Unlike the other breakout candidates we've talked about, there won't be stats to back up Robertson's improvement. What you will see if he improves is an offense that runs smoothly and efficiently on a consistent basis. That's something that was missing last season and I believe Robertson understands he needs to lead the charge in fixing that. I expect him to do just that and be an All-SEC level player in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Countdown to Kickoff: Robertson ready to take control of the offense
