Will Stone’s decision to redshirt and preserve his eligibility for the 2026 season, likely outside of Texas, prompted head coach Steve Sarkisian to announce that Mason Shipley will take on kickoff duties for Jeff Banks’ special teams.
This season, Texas has kicked 36 times from the right hash, resulting in 2,232 yards and 12 touchbacks, while Stone contributed 20 kickoffs for 1,239 yards, also recording eight touchbacks, with one kick going out of bounds. Shipley stepped in for Stone during games against UTEP and Sam Houston, accumulating 16 kickoffs for 993 yards, four touchbacks, and another kick out of bounds. Despite changes in kickers, the Horns’ strategy on kickoffs remains consistent, with no significant adjustments anticipated.
The Longhorns have been effective in limiting opportunities for opposing return teams, allowing just five returns this season with an average of 10.4 yards per return. Often, Texas successfully kicks the ball deep into the end zone. In some scenarios where the kick is directed between the numbers and the sideline, opposing return teams frequently choose to take possession at the 25-yard line rather than risk a return.
As the coaching staff monitors Shipley’s practice load, they remain confident given his experience; he previously served as Texas State’s place-kicker and kickoff specialist in 2022 and 2023. Unlike Cameron Dicker in 2021, Shipley is not managing multiple roles on the team.
Examining the Longhorns’ special teams performance this season reveals both strengths and weaknesses. In net punting, Texas ranks 102nd with an average of 38.17 yards, while their punt return team holds the third spot nationally with 21.6 yards per return. However, kickoff returns sit low at 106th with 17.25 yards per return, although their kickoff return defense is impressive, ranking fourth with opponents averaging only 10.4 yards.
Advanced statistical metrics offer varied perspectives on Texas’ special teams. The Longhorns rank eighth in special teams FEI, but Bill Connelly’s SP+ rates them tenth overall, suggesting their defense is top-notch while highlighting special teams issues, where they are ranked 104th.
Texas has displayed notable volatility in special teams play this season, showcasing both exceptional returns and incidents of missteps, such as allowing a blocked punt against Florida. Yet, the Longhorns have a strong legacy under Sarkisian, never allowing a kickoff return for a touchdown since his tenure began, the last occurrence being against Kansas State in 2019.
This week will present a challenge for the Longhorns’ special teams, as they continue to cohesively develop despite the absence of a vital player who has been instrumental in the third phase of their game for the past four years. As Texas looks to improve, they can draw hope from their historical resilience and potential as they navigate the remainder of the season.