Episode Details

The discussion focuses on recruiting, spring practice intel, and bold predictions for the 2026 season.

Micah Rhodes Recruiting Segment (Main Topic)

• Background: Four-star (top-30 nationally, often ranked as the No. 1 or elite RB in the 2028 class) running back Micah Rhodes from Klein Oak HS (Spring, TX) decommitted from Oklahoma on April 1, 2026. He had been committed since late January 2026 (a notably early commitment in the NIL era).
• Texas Connection: Rhodes has taken three visits to Texas already. Hosts note strong interest from both sides. His grandfather played linebacker at Texas in the 1980s, providing a family tie. Texas is viewed as a realistic and likely leader right now.
• Player Profile (per Tommy/Thomas Breesee):
  • Size: ~5'9"-5'10", 185-190 lbs.
  • Elite vision and navigation behind the line of scrimmage; hits holes decisively with good shiftiness and breakaway speed.
  • Fits the Steve Sarkisian offense mold (compared to players like Jaden Blue and Relique Brown — not quite as fast as some, but a well-rounded, high-floor back who could have a long NFL career).
  • Described as a "really special player" and "well-rounded" with no major weaknesses on tape; more of a reliable, high-end contributor than a one-trick standout.
• Recruitment Outlook:
  • Expected to be a long, drawn-out process (common for elite early commits who decommit — they often want the second commitment to stick).
  • Texas should stay heavily involved the entire way and will likely make his final four.
  • Other suitors mentioned: Georgia, Alabama, possibly Miami or Oregon.
  • Oklahoma could potentially re-enter (new RB coach after DeMarco Murray left for the Chiefs), but Texas appears positioned well due to proximity, visits, and scheme fit.
  • Hosts emphasize it's very early (class of 2028), so holding any commitment would be challenging. Texas wants him badly for the future RB room alongside projected talents like Derek Cooper.
• Broader Context: Discussion ties into Texas' need for reliable, consistent playmakers (not just high-upside but game-to-game steadiness, like a Jordan Whittington-type at WR). Rhodes is seen as a higher-end version of that reliability at RB.

Spring Practice / Camp Intel & Freshmen Highlights

• Standout Freshmen:
  • Samari Matthews (CB): Biggest surprise. Running with the ones in 7-on-7, forcing multiple turnovers recently. Sark has praised him. Long, rangy; potential to back up veterans and form an elite future CB trio (with Bo Masco, etc.). Could see early playing time if he continues creating turnovers (an area Texas has lacked consistency in).
  • Rocky Cummings (LB): Mid-3-star transfer from Cal; big thumper at 6'4", 230+ lbs. Getting praise in camp (possibly special teams or LB depth). Size stands out in a room full of athletes; high ceiling if he translates to the field.
  • Derek Cooper (RB, true freshman): Getting buzz. Rhodes himself commented that Cooper "could start this year" after watching practice. Seen as a potential difference-maker who could create a "RB1 conversation" early. Hosts like his fit as a more physical complement to the portal RBs (Hollywood Smothers, Relique Brown).
• Other notes: Cam Coleman and Rasheem Biles getting expected hype as freaks. Overall, the freshman class is impressing, with Sark and insiders highlighting several.

Other Key Topics

• SEC Odds (vi