Padded practices begin in Austin, here’s who to watch

The Texas Longhorns are putting on the pads as the reality of the upcoming season sets in for the football team.

Steve Sarkisian is impressed with the team’s physicality to this point. Now, players in the trenches have an opportunity to separate themselves from the pack.

On Monday, Sarkisian noted a handful of players have exhibited the explosiveness the staff covets. He noted Vernon Broughton and Byron Murphy had been especially explosive among defensive tackles.

On the other side, without question the offensive line should be more physical this year. If for no other reason than the competition will demand physicality from the starting five.

The Texas coaching staff aims to bring Texas’ hitting ability up to standard this season. Here are a few players who could show out now that hitting becomes more feasible.

Diamonte Tucker-Dorsey

Mike Caudill/The Virginian-Pilot via AP

If the transfer linebacker can pass the physicality test, good luck keeping him off the field. The former James Madison standout has faced questions about whether his game will translate to Texas. Tucker-Dorsey has a chance to significantly increase his value in the eyes of coaches.

Ryan Watts

I am sure Texas would like to see physical play from cornerbacks. The Longhorns could use a bully on the outside, slowing opposing wide receivers.

Morice Blackwell

AP Photo/LM Otero

While 7-on-7 sessions favor smaller defensive backs, padded practices are Morice Blackwell’s time to shine. The linebacker-turned-safety can display his hitting ability at this stage of camp.

Alfred Collins

The above play is what some expect of Alfred Collins. According to Steve Sarkisian, that is not the in-practice reality on a play-by-play basis. If Collins can play with consistency, he could be a terror for Big 12 teams.

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