Longhorns LB Anthony Hill Shows Signs of Stardom in Win vs. Alabama
On the biggest stage of his newly-started college career, Texas Longhorns freshman linebacker Anthony Hill was presented with the tall task of having to deal with Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe.
And as the No. 11 Longhorns continue to soak in Saturday's 34-24 win over the No. 3-ranked Tide in Tuscaloosa, more will begin to come to the realization that the young linebacker is a star in the making after his play against Alabama.
Even as a true freshman in a hostile environment, Hill was arguably the most impactful defensive player for Pete Kwiatkowski's unit on Saturday. He was often used as a QB spy in charge of chasing down the dual-threat Milore if he started to use his legs to get loose from the pocket.
Moving sideline to sideline a handful of times, Hill showed that his speed for the linebacker spot can give defenses fits. Milroe finished with 15 carries for 44 yards, but certainly looked like he was headed for more if not for some key stops from Hill to prevent minimal or moderate gains.
© Aaron E. Martinez, USA TODAY
More importantly, Hill led all players with two sacks while adding six total tackles. Both of his sacks came on third down.
The versatility was on display, as he showcased a unique combination of speed and pass-rushing prowess against a talented offensive line. In total, Alabama allowed five sacks, the final two of which came from Hill at critical points in the second half. This included the one that ended the night for the Tide offense with over seven minutes to play, as Hill's third-down sack of Milroe with eight minutes to play allowed the Longhorns to get the ball back and burn clock to seal the win.
A performance like this could springboard Hill even further as the season progresses. If nights like Saturday are just the start for the freshman, the rest of the Big 12 could be in for an unpleasant treat for the remainder of the year.
Looking to build off of some massive momentum, the Longhorns will host the Wyoming Cowboys in Austin on Saturday.
