True Freshman Runs Longhorns Past Rainbows In College Debut

Ricky Williams, the first true freshman to start at running back at Texas since Heisman Trophy winner Earl Campbell 21 years ago, scored two touchdowns, one on a 65-yard run, late Saturday night as the 18th-ranked Longhorns defeated Hawaii, 38-17, in the season opener for both teams.

Williams, who also caught one pass for 48 yards, wound up with 95 yards on 10 carries to better Campbell’s mark of 85 yards for a true freshman debut game.

The Longhorns also got strong support from another newcomer, junior college transfer Shon Mitchell, who picked up 76 yards on eight carries and James Brown, who completed nine passes for 210 yards and one TD. On the receiving end of Brown’s aerials was Mike Adams, who had five receptions for 98 yards and a score.

Texas didn’t waste any time in taking control of the game.

On the game’s first play from scrimmage, Williams raced 20 yards and on the second, Brown hit Adams for 41 yards.

The drive resulted in a 22-yard field goal by Phil Dawson and the Longhorns added two touchdowns before the end of the period to make it 17-0.In taking control early, Texas took a 31-3 halftime lead.