By PML College Insider | Austin, TX
In Week 4, the Horns answered a few questions and set a tone. A 42-24 win isn’t a blowout, but it shows the ability to respond, execute and win when the game matters.
🧠 QB Maalik Murphy
Stat line: 19 of 30 passing*, approx 216 yards, 4 TD, 2 INTs* (based on box: 19/30, 216 yd, 4TD,2INT)
Murphy showed his big-play capability threw for four touchdowns, repeatedly finding the end zone through the air. The interceptions are still blemishes, but the volume of scores tells you he’s confident and dangerous. His 63% completion rate and 11.4 yards per carry figure suggest he’s making strong downfield throws.
Takeaway: The arm talent is clearly there. What remains is consistency and error-free execution in high-leverage situations.
🐂 HB CJ Baxter
Stat line: 20 carries, 167 yards (8.4 avg), 1 TD, long 53 yards, plus 3 runs for 20+ YAC (per the box)
Baxter asserted himself on the ground. He averaged over 8 yards per carry and broke a 50-yard run to ignite the offense. In a game where you needed him to carry the load, he responded.
Takeaway: The rushing attack looks alive when he’s dominant. That opens up play-action and takes pressure off the pass game.
⚡ WR Kaliq Lockett
Stat line: 4 receptions, 110 yards, 1 TD, long 66, 1 drop
Lockett made the explosive plays. A 66-yard catch and overall 27.5 yard average show he’s a vertical threat. The drop is a reminder that focus under pressure still matters.
Takeaway: When Lockett gets into space, look out — he can change games. Ensure he stays locked in on every snap.
🎯 TE Jack Endries
Stat line: 8 receptions, 81 yards, 2 TDs
Endries was a real chain-mover and scorer this week. His eight catches show trust from the QB and coaches. Two touchdowns? That’s impact.
Takeaway: You want your TE stepping up — Endries delivered. That versatility in the passing game makes the offense multi-dimensional.
💪 LB Ty’Anthony Smith
Stat line: 4 TFL, solid tackling (exact tackles not posted)
Smith continues to be the defense’s clearing house. In a game where the opponent punched back, his ability to make plays behind the line and clean up is critical.
Takeaway: He’s your anchor. When Smith is playing fast and physical, the defense rises.
🧱 CB Kobe Black
Stat line: 1 INT (81 yd return per box), multiple stops
Big play from Black: a pick with big return yardage. That kind of swing moment gives the offense even more room.
Takeaway: A cornerback who can flip field position is gold. Black gave you just that.
🧩 CB Eli Bowen
Stat line: 3 tackles for loss, multiple tackles (total stats not fully shown)
Bowen again proves that he’s more than just a coverage guy — he’s active, aggressive and around the ball.
Takeaway: Depth and play-makers in the secondary matter. Bowen is stepping into that role.
🎬 Offensive Line & Running Game
With Baxter’s line giving him room and Murphy getting clean looks, the trenches looked good. The 8.4 avg rushing mark and explosive plays of 50+ yards suggest the line opened creases and sustained blocks.
Takeaway: When the run is hitting and the pass protection holds, you become very hard to defend.
🚧 Areas to Polish
- Turnovers: Murphy’s 2 INTs mean extra chances for the opponent.
- Consistency: Making big plays, yes — but also closing drives and sustaining rhythm matters.
- Defense needs to keep tightening: Allowing 24 points against your opponent means next week you’ll want that number lower.
✅ Final Takeaway
This was a statement win: 42 points scored, 160+ rushing yards, explosive passing and big defensive plays. You’re showing you can not only win, but dominate when you want to. The next step is locking that in every week, cutting the mistakes, and making sure the margin becomes bigger and more consistent.
