We're counting down the days until football is back in the state of Texas, and we've hit nine days. To celebrate, we're counting down Texan college football players who could break out during the 2019 season. 

RB Juma Otoviano, Rice

Mike Bloomgren’s offense calls for an aggressive, dynamic rushing attack. Luckily, he finally has the running back to build around. Otoviano scored his first touchdown against LSU, and then exploded for 224 yards and two touchdowns in his first start against Old Dominion. There’s no telling what he can do with more carries.

DT Keondre Coburn, Texas

Coburn was one of the top defensive line prospects in America when he landed in Austin a year ago. Now, Coburn is ready to become a centerpiece of the Texas defensive line. His 6-foot-2, 340-pound frame has the talent to not just replace Chris Nelson, but exceed him. 

RB Jashaun Corbin, Texas A&M

With Trayveon Williams gone to the NFL, the Aggies are looking for a dynamic running back to keep the offense moving. Corbin might be the guy. He averaged 5.7 yards per carry on limited touches last year, including 41 yards on four carries against NC State. With more carries in 2019, watch out. 

QB Frank Harris, UTSA

There will be more on Harris than perhaps any other player on this list. UTSA’s offense was historically bad last year, and quarterback play was a huge part. Harris was always meant to be “the guy” at quarterback, but an ACL injury kept him out in 2018. Now, Harris is the UTSA offense’s best hope at taking a step forward.

WR Jeremiah Haydel, Texas State

Texas State’s receiver room was almost non-existent a year ago. The leading receiver – and only player on the team with more than 350 yards – was tight end Keenen Brown. Whenever Haydel got the ball, he exploded. He led the team with 20.4 yards per reception. In a more pass-happy offense, Haydel has a chance to put up much stronger numbers.

S Thomas Leggett, Texas Tech

All of the top Red Raiders safeties graduated, but that just opens the door for Leggett. The junior played all 12 games in his first year after transferring from a JUCO, and posted eight tackles. He’ll have to take a big step forward to be a legitimate Big 12 starter, but the coaching staff complimented his effort and ability after a strong spring camp. Safety is a critical position in the Big 12, and Leggett has what it takes. 

DE James Lockhart, Baylor

Lockhart was a highly-touted piece when he transferred from Texas A&M to Baylor. According to the coaching staff, this is the year he finally put it all together. Lockhart will be relied on right away to set the edge in a new three-down scheme. That’s a lot of responsibility; we’ll figure out quickly if he can handle it. 

DE Ochaun Mathis, TCU

All spring, all summer and all fall, Mathis has been the hottest new name on campus. Considering Gary Patterson’s track record with defensive ends, that’s significant. If Mathis and South Carolina grad transfer Shameik Blackshear can hold down the edge, TCU’s defense could be even better in 2019.

TE Kelvin Smith, North Texas

Perhaps no player will benefit more from new offensive coordinator Bodie Reeder than Smith. Reeder happily uses a versatile tight end to create different looks in his offense. The staff is wildly optimistic about what Smith can do in an expanded role.