Texas Longhorns “took advantage of special teams” against Florida Gators

AUSTIN – In a perfect game, freshman Michael Kern wouldn't have to record many stats. In Texas' game against Florida, Kern, who missed several games due to injury, including the loss at Georgia, was forced to take the field three times.

Compared to Florida punter Jeremy Crashaw, who was used five times, Kern was in reasonably good shape, especially since the Longhorns dominated the game. The pressure on his back wasn't that great.

Kern averaged 38.3 yards per punt for a total of 115 yards.

“We benefited from special teams,” head coach Steve Sarkisian said. “A big punt from Michael Kern got us out of our own jam when we were pushed back.

On the other hand, it's usually a good sign for the Longhorns when kicker Bert Auburn can take a lot of PATs in the game. Auburn had a chance to put the scoreboard ahead five minutes into the game when Texas went for a field goal but ultimately missed.

However, that was to be his only long shot of the game.

Of Texas' seven touchdowns, Auburn successfully scored on the extra point.

“I think we can win games in different ways,” Sarkisian said. “When we're not on our best offense (best play), our defense can hold the field, or maybe when we need to score more points because a team is scoring on you or you have to make a special call.” But the beauty of it is that we are really good in all three phases and if all three phases are right, we can compete against each other.

Special teams may not receive the same recognition as quarterbacks or wide receivers, but they have proven to be a crucial part of a well-functioning team.

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