OUR TAKEAWAYS

Staff takeaways from Monday’s UT press conference:

Ryan Autullo: After the Texas Bowl debacle, Charlie Strong professed his faith in play-caller Shawn Watson, insisting the two were in lock step with their plans for the offense. On Monday, Strong was again asked about Watson and responded that his performance is being evaluated. My guess is the evaluation is all but complete, and Watson is toast if things don’t improve quickly.

Kirk Bohls: I continue to be thoroughly impressed with Charlie Strong’s perspective. He showed he fully understands the gravity of the situation after going 6-8 in his first 14 games. He preaches accountability. Conversations with about half a dozen Texas players show they completely support the staff, which is always a good thing. The Rice game already qualifies as a must-win game for Charlie, but at least he gets it.

Brian Davis: Veterans are supposed to be the team leaders, but should the freshmen just step up and take over this team? “Right now, that’s not our role, ”linebacker Malik Jefferson said.“We don’t see ourselves as taking over the team. We see ourselves as coming in and helping the team. ”Somebody needs to step up. Jefferson, John Burt and Kris Boyd all made standout plays against Notre Dame. Let’s see some other freshmen get more chances against Rice.

Cedric Golden: The sense I got Monday was one of anger and frustration. Tyrone Swoopes and Tank Jackson made the biggest impression on me when both said it’s time to stop talking about doing something and actually go do something. Love that sentiment. Only what happens on the field matters. Besides, the fans don’t want words. They want wins.