Gerry Hamilton's baker’s dozen most important Texas Longhorns this season

There could be quite the argument made which players are most important this season. For Texas to maximize as a team, there are certain positions and players that must come through.

One will immediately notice defensive backs weren’t included on the list. That has nothing to do with talent or importance, but confidence they will perform.

With that said, four positions will tell the story of the 2021 Texas team. And the players at those positions are vital to the Longhorns ascending on the field under Steve Sarkisian. 

13. Cameron Dicker, K, Senior

The experience of a kicker can’t be talked about enough. Especially one as talented as Dicker. The local product will very likely be the difference in two or three games this season.

12. Moro Ojomo, DL, Junior

Ojomo has been a player that has enjoyed a strong off-season under the new staff. If Ojomo takes a big step this season, Texas will have the best interior defensive line in the conference.

11. Troy Omeire, WR, Redshirt Freshman

Omeire coming off the ACL injury and becoming a ball winner is imperative this season. Texas doesn’t have another receiver with his size, wingspan and skill set. And that means he can be a difference maker for a first year starting quarterback when under duress. 

10. T’Vondre Sweat, DL, Junior

The 6-foot-4, 335-pound defensive tackle has had the look of a future NFL Draft pick his first two seasons. The staff needs him be that with more consistency this season, and while carrying less weight. 

9. Keilan Robinson, RB, Sophomore TR

Robinson brings the speed and playmaking the Texas offense needs in numbers. And he brings it from a championship program. The ability to impact the offense as a running back and out of the backfield provides Sarkisian a big weapon. 

8. Keondre Coburn, DL, Junior

Snacks Coburn has taken to the new staff with a feeling of the opportunity to maximize his potential. Texas lack of EDGE production is worthy of discussion, but it will be the interior that determines how good this defense ultimately become. 

7. Derek Kerstetter, RT, Senior 

Kerstetter must have a healthy and productive season at right tackle for the Longhorns to ascend on the field. No way around it. Kyle Flood needs Kerstetter to turn in a third-team All-Big 12 level season, and take pressure off playing an inexperienced tackle.

6.DeMarvion Overshown, LB, Senior

While the interior of the defensive line will tell the story this season, Overshown has to be a playmaker. Not only does Overshown need to perform like an early NFL Draft pick caliber player, but also an All-Big 12 performer. 

5. Xavier Worthy, WR, True Freshman 

The On3 five-star in the class of 2021 has a level of speed and playmaking the Texas offense sorely needs. Worthy has turned heads since arriving in Austin, and that has continued through four practices in August. Starting game one is not out of the question. 

4. Alfred Collins, DL, Sophomore

Texas needs their top future NFL Draft prospects to play like NFL prospects, and this is especially true on the defensive line. Collins is easily the most gifted of the group, and has to show it on the field. 

3. Christian Jones, LT, Junior

Jones got his athletic feet wet last season at right tackle, and now must take a big step. He moves into the most important position for a team with a right-handed quarterback, and pressure comes with that. If Jones holds up and takes the next step, the Longhorns will be a surprise team this season. 

2. Bijan Robinson, RB, Sophomore

If Texas is to ascend on the field this season, Robinson will have to become one of the college footballs best offensive players. And he’s on track to become just that. Robinson should be fresh with nearly every carry as well. Roschon Johnson and Keilan Robinson provide talented depth in spades. 

1. Hudson Card, QB, Redshirt Freshman

Texas will have a first year starting quarterback in year one under Steve Sarkisian. I am picking Card because of the total package. The arm talent, quick release, terrific feet and off-schedule playmaking. Card’s ability to use the entire field, and do so on the move will be the difference in the competition. The winner of the quarterback competition will instantly become the most important player for Texas this season.