in 2010. However, since former backup quarterback John Chiles was moved to wide receiver, Gilbert competed with Sherrod Harris for the backup job during the off-season. On August 23, 2009, Gilbert became the second-string quarterback as a true freshman, in front of the junior Harris. In the 2009 season opener against Louisiana-Monroe, Gilbert lined up behind center during the fourth quarter and drove the Longhorns down the field, completing four-of-five passes for 46 yards, before scoring a twelve-yard rushing touchdown on a quarterback draw play to end the drive. On January 7, 2010, in the BCS National Championship Game, Gilbert replaced the injured Colt McCoy. Gilbert completed 15-of-40 passes for 186 yards, two touchdowns, and four interceptions. One analyst took the position that his stat line did not reflect how well he actually played (even though he was responsible for five turnovers – the four interceptions and a lost fumble), and that several of his passes that should have been caught were dropped. Gilbert led the Longhorns to two scoring drives in the second half to spark a comeback, bringing the score to 24–21 Alabama. However, the comeback ultimately fell short late in the game with a turnover inside the Texas five–yard line. The Longhorns lost the game 37–21. 2010 season Gilbert was the starting quarterback during 2010 season. He led the team to a 5–7 record, Texas' first losing season since 1997. Against Kansas State, he threw for 5 interceptions as the Longhorns lost by a score of 39–14. In that game, Kansas State also only attempted four passes. Soon after that year's bowl season, Mack Brown announced that every job was up for grabs, leaving Gilbert to compete with sophomores Case McCoy and Conner Wood, as well as freshman David Ash. 2011 season On August 29, it was announced that Gilbert would retain the starting position in the season opener against Rice. However, on September 12, it was announced that he was being demoted to the second-string quarterback behind Case McCoy and Ash, who would share the starting position. On September 20, it was announced that Gilbert underwent successful surgery on his shoulder and was ruled out the remainder of the season. Gilbert was granted his unconditional release from Texas on October 5, allowing him the opportunity to seek a transfer. Later that day, he was seen at Southern Methodist University (SMU), watching the football team practice. He