Steve Sarkisian says three Texas RBs will play in bowl game

Even with Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson missing the Alamo Bowl, Steve Sarkisian is confident in the Texas running back room.

The Longhorns won’t be selfish with the football, as Sarkisian told the media that all three available running backs — Keilan Robinson, Jonathon Brooks and Jaydon Blue — will have their opportunities against Washington.

“Yeah, all three of those guys will play,” revealed Sarkisian. “Obviously Keilan is not a young guy. Keilan is a veteran player for us. He’s been with me his true freshman year when he was at Alabama, so I think he’s very comfortable systematically with what we do, obviously just hasn’t had the opportunity, but explosive player for us. He’s provided a lot of versatility to our offense. Jonathon and the opportunities he’s had from a year ago to this year, every time he’s gotten the ball he’s played well for us, and we’re obviously all really excited about Jaydon Blue. He’s a guy that’s probably matured as much or more than any of our true freshmen from spring ball until now, so we’re fortunate.

“It’s a talented group. Now they’re going to get their opportunity to go play and play at a high level against a good team.”

On the season, all three running backs have been used sparingly, but that’s expected when you’re behind Bijan Robinson and Johnson on the depth chart.

Keilan Robinson has rushed for 59 yards on 17 attempts, while Brooks has gained 179 yards and four touchdowns on 24 touches. Meanwhile, Blue has amassed 33 yards on 15 carries through the season thus far.

Alas, it could be the biggest workload all three have seen in 2022. The Texas offense has been scary at times, and they’ll have to be so again to contend with a tough, motivated Washington squad.

It’ll be a fascinating one on Thursday, as Steve Sarkisian looks to cap his second season at the helm of the Longhorns with a victory.