Texas Upsets a Sixth-Ranked Oklahoma with a Gritty Red River Victory
In a classic Red River Rivalry clash, Texas rode a poised performance from Arch Manning and a game-changing punt return by Ryan Niblett to topple the sixth-ranked Oklahoma Sooners, 23-6. The win, a much-needed boost for the Longhorns after an early-season stumble, keeps Texas hopeful of a return to the national conversation and preserves the Golden Hat for another year.
Manning Delivers a Poised, Efficient Effort
Arch Manning completed 21 of 27 passes for 166 yards, connecting on the decisive scoring drive to start the second half. The 12-yard touchdown strike to DeAndre Moore Jr. on the opening drive of the third quarter gave Texas its first lead and signaled a breakout performance from the true freshman quarterback. Manning’s efficiency was notable, avoiding costly mistakes and keeping Oklahoma’s defense off balance with timely completions and good ball placement.
Texas leaned on Manning to manage the game and exploit the Sooners’ vulnerabilities in the middle of the field. The Longhorns’ passing attack benefited from balanced play-calling and catchable targets, allowing their offense to settle into a rhythm after a rocky start to conference play.
Special Teams Spark and Field-Goal Precision
While the offense stole headlines, Texas’ special teams units provided critical momentum. Mason Shipley connected on three field goals — from 22, 48, and 39 yards — to stretch the lead and keep Oklahoma at arm’s length. Shipley’s leg also produced two longer misses earlier in the game, including a 55-yard attempt that clanged off the upright and a 56-yarder that sailed wide, reminding fans that every point mattered in a defensive battle.
Ryan Niblett: The Turning Point and Defensive Backbreaker
Perhaps the most pivotal moment came from Ryan Niblett, who electrified the crowd with a 75-yard punt return for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Streaking up the sideline in front of the Texas bench, Niblett shook a tackler, cut inside near midfield, and outran the Sooners to extend Texas’ lead to what would become insurmountable. The return epitomized Texas’ willingness to capitalize on Oklahoma’s mistakes and served as a dagger in a tense finish.
Oklahoma’s Struggles Behind John Mateer’s Return
Oklahoma entered the contest with optimism, but their offense struggled to sustain drives. John Mateer, back after a right-hand surgery, went 20-of-38 with three interceptions. The Sooners managed only 258 total yards and faced a stubborn Texas defense that forced crisp coverage and timely stops. The turnover issues and stalled drives left Oklahoma playing catch-up for much of the night, a difficult mountain to climb against a hungry Texas squad.
What This Win Means for Texas Going Forward
Texas now sits at 4-2 overall and 1-1 in SEC play, a win that reaffirms the program’s quarterback development arc under Manning and its ability to compete with top-tier opponents. With the Golden Hat retained and a favorable path ahead, the Longhorns have renewed momentum as they navigate rest of the schedule. If Manning continues to develop his command and the supporting cast — including Shipley’s leg and the receivers’ reliability — Texas can sustain this level of performance and contend for a major bowl spot and a potential playoff conversation late in the season.
Final Thoughts: A Signature Moment in a Storied Rivalry
Red River Rivalry games often hinge on decisive plays and momentum swings, and this edition delivered. Manning’s steady leadership, Niblett’s special-teams heroics, and a cost-conscious offensive approach combined to keep Texas in the driver’s seat. For the Sooners, the result underscored the work still needed to maximize talent with the clock ticking on their ambitions for a higher postseason stage. Fans left the Cotton Bowl with plenty to discuss, and Texas’ quest for consistency just got a promising new chapter.
