There's a lot in common with Texas linebackers Anthony Hill Jr and Tyanthony Smith
Texas linebackers Anthony Hill Jr and Tyanthony Smith have more in common than just being young, exciting defenders on the defensive side of the ball. Both were committed to Texas A&M during their senior seasons and both have become close.
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Hill was a five-star out of Denton (Texas) Ryan and Smith was a four-star from Jasper (Texas). Hill joined the Horns in 2023, Smith in 2024, and the duo have been close ever since.
Hill took over middle linebacker duties this fall, and part of that includes showing Smith the ropes.
“With Tyanthony, I feel like I can do a good job kind of leading him along the way,” Hill told Inside Texas. “I feel like all the linebackers do a good job pushing (Smith) forward and helping him everyday.”
The similarities are striking. Both pledged to Texas A&M in the summer, and Hill actually hosted Smith during his official visit.
“He was my recruit actually, so I kind of helped a little flipping him,” said Hill. “I hosted him late, late and getting to know him and talking to some of his family, I know where he comes from and he’s a good guy. When I recruit, I try to not keep football away, but really don’t just want to talk about ball. I kind of just chill with them and kind of remind them what we’re all about, and what we do, but I try not to say ‘hey, we’re the best school, flip to us,’ I try to keep it all friendly and warn them about some things and just do that.”
When Smith got into the game versus UTSA on Saturday, he made himself known quickly. His fourth down stop where he absolutely blasted the gap caught Hill’s attention.
“I was on the field and I was excited for him,” said Hill. “He deserves to play. He’s a good football player and he’s going to continue to make plays on special teams and when he gets on the field.”
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This week, the Hill, Smith, and the Longhorns return to the friendly confines of Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium for a 7 p.m. CT kick against ULM on Saturday, Sept. 21 on ESPN+/SEC Network+. Lowell Galindo (play-by-play), Fozzy Whittaker (analyst) and Alex Chappell (sideline) will have the call.
