Texas will showcase two freshmen in key roles when the Longhorns face Michigan in Wednesday’s Citrus Bowl. The departures of multiple players to the transfer portal and NFL draft preparations have created opportunities for younger players to step up.
The Longhorns have lost significant talent over the past three NFL drafts, with 28 players selected. Several more are projected to be picked next spring.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian will rely on freshmen at critical positions as Texas looks to finish the season strong against the Wolverines.
Michael Terry III
The running back position has been hit hardest by departures this season. Texas has lost four backs through transfers, leaving only three available for the bowl game.
Redshirt freshman Christian Clark and true freshman James Simon have game experience. Michael Terry III will make his debut at running back.
The consensus four-star recruit from Alamo Heights H.S. in San Antonio originally played wide receiver. He switched to running back in October after Jerrick Gibson left the program.
Terry played multiple positions in high school, including receiver, running back and tight end. His versatility could prove valuable as Texas deals with depth issues.
Wednesday’s game gives Terry a chance to show he can contribute at his new position heading into 2026. New running backs coach Jabbar Juluke will be watching closely.
Lance Jackson
Senior Ethan Burke’s opt-out creates an opening at defensive end opposite All-American Colin Simmons. True freshman Lance Jackson is expected to fill that role.
The five-star recruit from Pleasant Grove H.S. in Texarkana earned All-SEC Freshman Team honors after appearing in all 12 regular-season games.
Jackson recorded 15 total tackles and two sacks during the regular season.
His best performance came against Oklahoma in Week 7. Jackson tallied four pressures, two quarterback hits and a half sack in just 11 snaps.
Pro Football Focus gave Jackson a grade of 87.0 that week, the highest among all true freshman edge rushers nationally.
Sarkisian has directly named Jackson as an ideal fit for new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp’s system. The freshman’s role could expand significantly next season.
Looking Ahead
Both players will get extended opportunities to prove themselves against quality opposition. Michigan brings a 9-3 record and strong defensive reputation to the matchup.
The departures that created these opportunities reflect the current state of college football. Players with NFL aspirations often skip bowl games to avoid injury.
No. 13 Texas (9-3) faces No. 18 Michigan (9-3) on Wednesday, December 31, in the 80th Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM ET on ABC.
