Texas’ Jelani McDonald’s spectacular play could be the biggest defensive highlight of the Longhorns’ season
The Texas pass defense is the No. 1 unit in college football this season, so it stands to reason there have been some impressive individual plays this season. But for the Longhorns, Jelani McDonald’s diving finger-tip interception against Kentucky may be the defensive play of the year — at least so far. “That was 10 […]
The Texas pass defense is the No. 1 unit in college football this season, so it stands to reason there have been some impressive individual plays this season.
But for the Longhorns, Jelani McDonald’s diving finger-tip interception against Kentucky may be the defensive play of the year — at least so far.
“That was 10 out of 10. That was a nice one,” said Jahdae Barron, who may be this year’s Thorpe Award winner.
“Superman,” safety Michael Taaffe said.
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With Texas leading 14-7 in the second quarter, Kentucky quarterback Brock Vandagriff looked to his right and fired a ball intended for Dane Key. McDonald first engaged with the receiver but then let him go. But McDonald kept running, turned back to watch the quarterback’s eyes and made a leaping, incredible interception.
“Are you kidding me on that catch?,” ABC’s Jesse Palmer said.
Texas had two interceptions against Kentucky. Senior Andrew Mukuba’s pick to finish the night was just as special. The Horns celebrated as a unit by running over to Bevo’s pen and started jumping up and down, knowing the game was essentially over.
But that play wasn’t as impressive as McDonald’s.
“I mean, everybody knows how athletic he is,” Taaffe said. “We’ve been talking about that this whole season and even tied back to last season. He’s so athletic. I’m glad he finally got to show that and for y’all to see because we've known that forever.”
Linebacker Anthony Hill said, “I knew he was going to be a guy once I saw he committed here. And I’ve been happy to see him grow and get better as a player.”
It was McDonald’s first career interception. The first is always the hardest. Perhaps many more are soon to follow.
“I’m so proud of him. He works so hard. I’m proud of him,” defensive end Barryn Sorrell said. “He came in as a young guy and he’s just been working his tail off since he’s been here and now he’s able to come on this defense and contribute week in and week out. So I’m just so proud of him. I love that kid.”
