Outscoring Louisiana is a concern for the opener, but the crux for the game - and the season - may come from kickoffs and fourth-and-forevers.

Texas' special teams reached a breaking point late in the Rose Bowl, when Richmond McGee kicked off with 4:56 remaining and the Longhorns holding a 35-34 lead. Michigan receiver Steve Breaston caught the ball at the 4-yard line and raced 61 yards past the Texas coverage team. Breaston made it to the Texas 43 yard line and would have scored without a timely tackle from McGee.

The kicking game came through as Dusty Mangum hit his 37-yard field goal, and since Jan. 1, special teams have headlined the Longhorns' preparations for the season.

The special teams won't relax against Louisiana in Saturday's season opener. The Ragin' Cajuns blocked 16 kicks in the past three years, including three field goals and a punt last season.

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By Eric Ransom