Texas Football

By Dennis Hall / Texas Football

The Texas Longhorns were the first team in the state to begin spring practice, and they're already making big progress on answering the many questions facing the team in 2010.

First and foremost, the Longhorns are reworking the offense to adjust for the graduation of star QB Colt McCoy. With sophomore Garrett Gilbert taking over under center, the Longhorns are using this spring to develop a balanced offense that won't put too much pressure on the youngster.

Texas is adding an I-formation set that has Gilbert taking snaps under center for the first time since he played Pop Warner football. The Longhorns continue to hope that a big-play back can emerge from a group that includes Tre Newton, Fozzy Whitaker, Chris Whaley and Vondrell McGee.

Gilbert's cannon arm -- and his new jersey number, No. 7 -- has already been on full display this spring. Arm strength and confidence shouldn't be a problem for Gilbert. But he won't have Jordan Shipley to throw to, which means a go-to receiver needs to step forward. Maybe we'll see one in the April 4 spring game.

Quarterbacks of the future Case McCoy and Connor Wood both enrolled early and are participating in spring practice.

Others open practice today

Rice becomes the state's second FBS team to begin spring practice when the Owls hit the field today. Rice will only practice for three weeks before holding its spring game on March 27.

Across the border, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State both open practice today. Both have their spring games scheduled for April 17.