Texas Longhorns Offensive Line Named as Semifinalists to Joe Moore Award

On Tuesday, the Foundation for Teamwork announced that the Texas Longhorn offensive linemen unit was named a semifinalist for the award honoring the most outstanding unit in the nation.

The Joe Moore Award recognizes the top offensive lineman unit in all of college football, and the Texas Longhorns' squad made the semifinalist list on Tuesday, the Foundation for Teamwork.

The Longhorns have relied consistently upon offensive linemen Kelvin Banks Jr., Hayden Conner, Jake Majors, DJ Campbell, and Christian Jones who have started in nine games this season altogether. Cameron Williams, Cole Hutson, and Connor Robertson occasionally make appearances on the field as well.

“Texas looks the part and they've improved noticeably from 2022 to 2023 to gain the attention of the selection committee," the committee said in a statement. "The unit stands out with pass protection, and they are consistent in playing with inside hands and consistent strain through the whistle. Steve Sarkisian's offense requires an offensive line that is balanced in their run/pass technique and duties and the Longhorns are just that. Flood’s unit at Bama won it in 2002, and you can really see his handiwork with this group.”

Texas Longhorn offense / © Jerome Miron, USA TODAY

Due to help from the offensive line unit, Texas' offense is ranked No. 14 in total offense this season, recording about 459.3 yards per game (totaling 183.5 yards rushing and 275.8 yards passing).

Texas star running back, but now injured, Jonathan Brooks was a candidate for the Doak Walker Award. Part of the reason for his nomination was due to the holes that the offensive line provided to make way for some running room.

Toughness, effort, teamwork, consistency, technique and finishing are the aspects taken into consideration when naming the winner. Do the Longhorns have what it takes to be recognized?

On Dec. 5, the finalists of the award will be narrowed down and announced. 

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