Offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert met with the media on Tuesday following Texas’ 27-6 win over Iowa State last week. The Longhorns’ signal caller spoke on his relationship with quarterback Shane Buechele and noted the difficulties of facing Kansas State’s defense. 

Gilbert has formed a strong bond with his freshman quarterback through the season’s first six weeks. The two have led an offense that averages over 38 points per game — the highest of head coach Charlie Strong’s tenure. 

The first-year coordinator said Buechele’s progression partly stems partly from his calm demeanor.

“[Buechele] stays calm and stays steady with what we’re trying to do offensively,” Gilbert said. “That’s really huge for him considering his age and lack of experience.” 

But Buechele will face a tough task on Saturday as the Longhorns head to Manhattan, Kansas, to face the Wildcats. Kansas State sports one of the Big 12’s top defenses, ranking No. 2 in the conference in total defense. Texas’ attack must play mistake-free to lift the burnt orange to their first win in Manhattan since 2002.

“They’re stingy. They’re good up front,” Gilbert said. “Those kids are coached up and they’re a good football team.”

Running back D’Onta Foreman also addressed the media coming off his 30-carry, 136-yard performance against the Cyclones on Saturday. The junior has emerged as one of the nation’s premier backs. He leads the Big 12 in rushing by over 200 yards and has notched eight touchdowns. 

Still, Foreman said he has room for improvement, specifically fumbling, after losing the ball two weeks in a row.

“I’ve [got to] protect the football better than I’ve done,” Foreman said. “That’s the biggest thing. I carry the ball kind of loose sometimes.”