Kansas football: 5 Jayhawks who must step up to overcome Texas

2 of 6

Sep 8, 2023; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer (9) drops back to pass against Kansas Jayhawks defensive lineman Austin Booker (9) during the first half at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

1. DE, Austin Booker

Austin Booker has become a monster for defensive coordinator Brian Borland. Despite missing the first half of the Nevada game due to a targeting call sustained vs. Illinois, he is tied for the team lead in sacks with 3.5.

The sophomore Minnesota transfer is quickly establishing himself as a future NFL talent. At 6-foot-6, 250 lbs, he is a powerful edge rusher with quick hands and excellent athleticism. Although he disappears during some drives, Kansas will need him to have a huge performance today. Here’s why.

Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers is completing less than 30% of his passes under pressure this season, per Pro Football Focus. While the obvious decision would be to all-out blitz him every play, UT also has one of the best receiving cores in the country. Therefore, Kansas is going to need to generate pressure from 4-man rushes, making Booker’s impact on the game that much more important.

This game is a chance for Booker to prove that he is truly a top pass rusher in the Big 12. I’m expecting big things from him today.

Home/Kansas Jayhawks Football