The Texas Longhorns got out to a fast start against the Arizona State Sun Devils on -Wednesday in the quarterfinal round of the College Football Playoff. After an error-filled first defensive possession, the Longhorns turned on the jets to build an early double-digit lead.
After a two-play touchdown drive put Texas up 7-3, the Longhorns forced a punt. Texas kick returner Silas Bolden made the most of it, slicing through the Arizona State punt coverage unit for a 75-yard touchdown return
To start the play, Bolden evaded a first defender before turning the return up the field. The transfer receiver then bolted past the next wave of defenders as a lunging Sun Devil defender whiffed at Bolden’s feet.
Behind a unit of blockers, Bolden crossed the 50-yard line. From there, it was off to the race, and no one was able to catch the Oregon State transfer. Bolden has been known for big plays and risks on special teams, and clearly this one paid off.
The Texas punt return unit has been ineffective for much of the year, but wasn’t on that play. Early in the contest, the Longhorns’ speed advantage was on full display.