Texas Longhorns talk about Georgia Bulldogs’ challenge, QB Carson Beck: ‘He’s great’

AUSTIN – Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck is enjoying the full attention of the Texas Longhorns defense ahead of Saturday’s top-five matchup in Austin.

In a meeting with the media on Monday, Texas players discussed the challenges Beck brings to a Longhorns defense that is allowing the fewest yards per game (229.7) in the country so far this season.

“He’s someone you have to be prepared and ready for,” Texas defenseman Jahdae Barron said of Beck. “He’s great. He does a lot of great things in the film. He’s an experienced quarterback at this level, so he’s a good opponent.”

Beck has had his fair share of ups and downs so far this season, but there is no doubting his abilities when he is at his best. In the win over Mississippi State, he posted one of the best statistical performances of his career, finishing his career with 459 passes to go and three touchdowns on 36 of 48 passing.

If he can keep this up in Austin, the Longhorns will be in trouble.

“He’s got a great arm. He’s a great passer, but he’s also a competitor,” Texas linebacker David Gbenda said. “He is willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win and he has a lot of great weapons. … I know he’s going to put his guys in the best position to just make plays.”

Despite the recent impressive numbers, Beck has had some problems with ball losses this season. His five interceptions are the second-most among SEC quarterbacks, two of which came against Mississippi State. He also lost a fumble this season.

Regardless, Texas safety Michael Taaffe knows the test that lies ahead.

“He’s a really, really good quarterback,” Taaffe said of Beck. “He can put the ball wherever he wants. He has had a great career. He’s an experienced quarterback, these guys trust him. It looks like these guys are around him when he steps on the field and he’s their quarterback. The offensive goes through him. So we have a really, really good challenge ahead of us.”

No. 1 Texas and No. 5 Georgia kick off in Austin on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT.