Heading into a key road game against No. 25 Vanderbilt, No. 5 Texas is dealing with injuries to several key players. After a 30-15 loss to Georgia, the Longhorns are looking to bounce back, but injury concerns are a major factor.
Safety **Derek Williams Jr.** is out for the season after suffering a knee injury in the Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma. Sophomore Jelani McDonald has stepped up in his absence, alongside Michael Taaffe and Andrew Mukuba in the safety rotation. Freshman Jordon Johnson-Rubell may also see more action in the secondary.
**Andrew Mukuba** suffered a knee injury during the Georgia game but has avoided a season-ending diagnosis. His status for the Vanderbilt game is questionable, according to head coach Steve Sarkisian, who is being cautious with his recovery. Mukuba had a strong performance against Georgia, including an interception and five tackles before his injury. If he’s unable to play, Texas may rely on younger players like Johnson-Rubell or consider moving Jahdae Barron to safety.
Running back **Quintrevion Wisner** is also dealing with an upper-body injury and wore a non-contact jersey in practice. The Texas ground game struggled against Georgia, though Wisner led the team with 52 rushing yards. If he’s unavailable, junior Jaydon Blue would be the only back with starting experience.
Wide receiver **Isaiah Bond** is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the Oklahoma game. He played sparingly against Georgia, catching two passes for 11 yards and a touchdown. Bond’s snaps were limited, and his health remains uncertain, but he leads Texas in receiving yards and touchdowns this season.
Texas will need these players healthy as they face Vanderbilt in a crucial SEC matchup.
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