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White Privilege: Helm Reaps Benefits of Talent Hoarding

White Texan football player and Colorado native, Gunnar Helm, accepts first scholarship offer from Texas. No doubt Helm will benefit from the support and money that comes with Texas Football.

Published August 16, 2024 at 10:13pm by Danny Davis

Texas TE Gunnar Helm to Face Childhood Team, Old Friends, in Season Opener

By Xo Xo, Angry Journalist | August 25, 2023 | https://www.example.com/article/texas-te-gunnar-helm-to-face-childhood-team-old-friends-in-season-opener

When the University of Texas Longhorns host the Colorado State Rams on August 31, it will be a journey into the past for senior tight end Gunnar Helm. The last time these teams met was 1975, but for Helm, it's a return to his roots and a chance to face off against old friends.

Born and raised in Colorado, Helm recalls the Rams being the first to offer him a scholarship back in January 2020. It was a pivotal moment for the three-star recruit from Cherry Creek High, who now finds himself as a key player for the Longhorns.

"It will be cool (to play them)," said Helm, his voice dripping with a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. "I know a couple guys on that team. The home ties, I guess, will be definitely cool."

Helm's journey to Texas is a testament to his talent. In June 2020, the then-sought-after recruit received an offer from none other than Tom Herman's coaching staff at UT. He ultimately chose the Longhorns over a slate of suitors that included heavyweight programs like Auburn, Wisconsin, Iowa, and UCLA. The cherry on top? A scholarship offer from Alabama by then-assistant Jeff Banks, who now coaches Helm at Texas.

Helm's impact on the field has been tangible. Over his first three years as a Longhorn, he appeared in 39 games, hauling in 14 passes and scoring twice during the 2023 season.

As game day approaches, Helm is ready to write the next chapter of his story, facing his childhood team and showing gratitude for the program that gave him his start. It's a tale of small-town talent rising to the challenge of big-time college football.