AUSTIN — In seasons past, it was Poona Ford who received the most attention on the Longhorns' defensive line. Ford is currently a rookie defensive lineman for the Seattle Seahawks.
But, Chris Nelson was a force as well, including last season's game at Texas Christian University that was decided in the fourth quarter. Nelson and the Longhorns hope to end their four-game losing skid against the Horned Frogs on Saturday in the Big 12 opener.
This is perfect timing considering the Longhorns are coming off that electric win against the University of Southern California.
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"Being a captain I have to tell my guys that's only one game, we got to lead by example," said Nelson.
Don't let Nelson's cool demeanor fool you. The fifth-year senior's big body is full of emotion as evidenced by his post tackle for loss and sack dances against USC. Nelson introduced the belly rub dance during last Saturday's win over the Trojans.
"It was just hype for the game, man," said Nelson.
I get it. Being in the moment can cause us all to celebrate said moment, especially when you limit a team to negative five yards rushing as Texas did to USC.
"I had told one of my defensive lineman, Jamari. I said this next play if I go make the tackle watch my celebration," said Nelson.
Moving forward, expect to see more of the Nelson belly rub. But, will the Floridian unveil a new celebration?
"I might. You have to see", said Nelson.
That's something to look forward to in the game against TCU. But, Nelson did say he wants to see a complete performance on both sides of ball as he did against USC.
Texas hosts TCU in the Big 12 opener at DKR Memorial Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m.