The Texas Longhorns are poised to start their new season without one of their promising returning players.
Ty’Anthony Smith, a linebacker with notable past contributions, has been dismissed due to conduct considered detrimental to the team, as confirmed by Head Coach Steve Sarkisian.
Smith, who played in 12 games last season, was vying for a starting role on the defensive side. Notably, he began in the Citrus Bowl against Michigan, where he amassed nine tackles and two interceptions. In total, last season, he registered 60 tackles—5.5 of which resulted in losses—as well as two sacks and two forced fumbles.
His competition for the starting lineup included two transfer students: Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh and Justin Cryer from Florida State.
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Despite missing last Saturday’s scrimmage due to a bout with the flu, Smith returned to practice earlier this week. However, his tenure with the team was abruptly ended as the university announced his dismissal on Friday evening.
“I didn’t like it,” Sarkisian said. “It’s an unfortunate situation for him individually. For us as a team, I hate that. He’s a quality player, but I have to think about the team first.”
It further complicates the job of new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.
“Guys are going to have to grow into certain roles,” Sarkisian said. “I think when we do want to go into our base package that we’ve got the right people on the field. How many snaps a game that is, really is depending on the opponent.”
Texas was ranked fifth in the Associated Press preseason poll. The Longhorns open the season against Texas State on Sept. 5.