Player-by-Player Evaluation – Last Game (PML)
This was a game defined by offensive balance, timely quarterback play, and a defense that consistently won early downs. Texas spread production across the roster, leaned on rhythm passing, and finished drives in multiple ways. Below is a full player-by-player breakdown.
Quarterbacks
QB Akili Smith Jr.
20/28, 269 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT | 71% completion | 168.5 rating
Smith delivered one of his most efficient outings of the season. He controlled tempo, worked through progressions cleanly, and consistently punished coverage with accurate throws between the numbers. His touchdown efficiency stood out, and his ability to add a short rushing TD showed growing confidence inside the red zone.
The lone interception came on an aggressive read, but it never rattled him—Smith responded with poise and command. This was a leader’s performance, one that kept Texas on schedule all game.
Grade: A-
QB Malik Reed
21/34, 193 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT | 4 sacks taken
Reed provided solid volume production but had a tougher time dealing with pressure. The four sacks and interception stalled a few drives, though he still moved the chains effectively. His rushing contribution (50 yards, 1 TD) helped offset some inconsistencies through the air.
A mixed outing—productive, but with room for improvement in pocket awareness.
Grade: C+
Running Backs
HB Manu Rome
14 carries, 58 yards, 1 TD | 7 catches, 58 yards
Rome was the engine of the offense. His versatility was on full display—efficient on the ground, reliable in the passing game, and strong after contact. He consistently turned short plays into positive gains and helped keep defenses honest.
A true all-around performance.
Grade: A
HB Malik Reed
12 carries, 50 yards, 1 TD | 2 fumbles
Reed was effective running the ball, but ball security was a major issue. Two fumbles are a red flag, especially in competitive games. His scoring ability remains valuable, but protecting the football must be a point of emphasis going forward.
Grade: C
HB Bo Jackson
3 carries, 22 yards (7.3 avg)
Limited touches, but he maximized them. Showed burst and efficiency when called upon.
Grade: B
Wide Receivers / Pass Catchers
WR Kaliq Lockett
8 catches, 119 yards, 1 TD | 0 drops
Lockett was the clear WR1 in this game. He consistently won his routes, stretched the field, and finished plays with confidence. His touchdown was a momentum-shifting moment, and his hands were flawless.
A star performance.
Grade: A+
WR J. Washington
6 catches, 73 yards | 1 drop
Washington was reliable for most of the night and moved the chains effectively. The drop is the lone blemish, but overall he did his job as a possession receiver.
Grade: B
WR T. Ausbon
6 catches, 68 yards
Ausbon provided steady production and strong yards after catch. A dependable option who continues to show chemistry with the quarterbacks.
Grade: B+
WR D. McCutcheon
8 catches, 62 yards, 1 TD
McCutcheon made the most of his opportunities, especially in tight spaces. His touchdown capped a solid, physical outing.
Grade: B+
HB Manu Rome (Receiving)
7 catches, 58 yards
Rome’s receiving production deserves special mention. He was a matchup problem for linebackers and safeties all game.
WR J. French
6 catches, 47 yards
Not flashy, but dependable. French kept drives alive with timely receptions.
Grade: B
WR E. Winston
1 catch, 35 yards
One target, one big play. Excellent situational execution.
Grade: B
Defense
SS Jonah Williams
7 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 deflection
Williams set the tone defensively. He was active around the ball, physical at the point of attack, and consistently involved in stopping plays early. A strong leadership performance from the secondary.
Grade: A
LB D. Brooks
6 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 INT
Brooks was everywhere. His interception was a momentum swing, and his ability to play downhill made life difficult for the opposing offense.
Grade: A
DL C. Ross II
6 tackles, 2 TFL
Ross controlled his gaps well and contributed consistently against the run.
Grade: B+
LB T. Smith
6 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 deflection
Smith filled lanes decisively and played with great discipline. Another strong outing in the linebacker unit.
Grade: B+
CB X. Filsaime
5 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 INT
Filsaime’s interception highlighted a strong coverage day. He played aggressively without overcommitting.
Grade: A-
CB K. Phillips
5 tackles, 1 deflection
Solid in coverage and reliable tackling on the perimeter.
Grade: B
DL Z. Umeozulu
2 tackles, 0.5 sack
Limited stats, but his sack showed his pass-rush potential.
Grade: B
EDGE R. Hodges
2 tackles, 1.5 sacks
Hodges was a difference-maker off the edge. His pressure helped disrupt rhythm passing and forced quicker throws.
Grade: A-
Team Takeaways
- Offensive balance was elite: Passing, rushing, and YAC all contributed.
- Akili Smith Jr. continues to grow as a leader under center.
- Ball security must improve in the backfield.
- Defense created plays—multiple interceptions and sacks kept control firmly in Texas’ hands.
This was a complete team performance, with stars shining and depth players contributing when called upon. Texas looked prepared, disciplined, and dangerous.
