Rod Babers and Jeff Howe broke down one of the most fascinating storylines of Texas’ season—the rise of 12 personnel (one back, two tight ends) in Steve Sarkisian’s offense—and why it could be a game-changer against Florida. Historic Usage: Against San Jose State, Texas unleashed its most impressive 12 personnel package in years—five tight ends played, four were targeted, and the Horns averaged 22 yards per attempt and 12 yards per play out of that grouping. Then, versus Sam Houston State, Texas lined up in 12 personnel over 60% of the time, the highest of Sark’s tenure. Why It Works Now: Injuries at RB and WR forced Sark to lean into his tight end depth. With guys like Jordan Washington and Jack Endries, Texas can block, stretch the field, and attack seams against two-high safety shells that are so common in today’s defenses. As Rod put it: Sark weaponizes surpluses—if he’s loaded at a position, he’ll maximize it. NFL Inspiration: The trend mirrors the NFL, where 12 personnel usage is at its highest since 2007. Sark’s shift could be partly necessity, partly evolution, and partly inspired by pro football strategy—forcing defenses into tough choices between base sets (vulnerable to pass) or nickel/dime (vulnerable to run). Run Game Reality Check: Texas’ run defense is elite (No. 1 in SEC in rush yards allowed, five straight opponents under 100 yards, including Ohio State twice). But the Longhorns’ own run game lacks explosiveness—just three 20+ yard runs all year, and none by RBs. Florida’s run game is somehow even worse (No. 106 nationally), despite returning O-line talent. The Gators’ guards and tackles have some of the worst blown block percentages in the SEC, crippling their consistency. The QB Factor: Florida QB DJ Lagway has been a disaster from clean pockets—five INTs, bottom-10 nationally in turnover-worthy plays. Teams sit back in coverage, dare him to read defenses, and he hasn’t delivered. Jeff Howe called him “a way more fascinating story than Arch Manning” this year because of his struggles. Key Matchup Saturday: Both Texas and Florida can stop the run. Neither has been explosive on the ground. The game could hinge on which team finds that one or two big rushing plays that change field position and scoring opportunities. Rod and Jeff wrapped by highlighting that Texas’ evolution into a “hybrid spread with power tight end sets” might be exactly what Sark envisioned years ago—and the Florida game is a perfect test of whether it’s just necessity…or the future of Texas football. 🤘

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