Texas freshens its season with a Red River win
The Texas Longhorns revived their hopes in a pivotal showdown with Oklahoma, overcoming a tough start and a late challenge from the Sooners to claim a 23-6 victory in the Red River Rivalry. Arch Manning anchored the offense with poised decision‑making and accurate throws, while special teams delivered a decisive moment that swung the game’s momentum in Texas’ favor.
Manning shines in a high-stakes environment
Arch Manning completed 21 of 27 passes for 166 yards and threw the go-ahead 12-yard touchdown to DeAndre Moore Jr. on the opening drive of the second half. The score helped Texas erase a 6-0 deficit and set the tone for a comeback performance after dropping a game at Florida that knocked the preseason No. 1 team out of the AP Top 25. Manning’s efficiency and ability to extend drives under pressure were on full display, highlighting his development as he gains more command of the Longhorns’ offense in the Southeastern Conference schedule.
Turnover-free defense backed by a clutch offense
Texas’ defense kept Oklahoma’s high-powered attack in check, yielding 258 total yards on the day. Quarterback John Mateer, returning from hand surgery, faced a tall task in his first game back, completing 20 of 38 passes with three interceptions. The Sooners managed little sustained success after their early push, and Texas capitalized when it mattered most. The Longhorns benefited from balanced playcalling and steady protection up front, allowing Manning to comfortably target his receivers and manage the pace of the game in key moments.
Special teams decide the game
The turning point came from a sensational punt return by Ryan Niblett. He fielded a punt, worked up the sideline in front of the Texas bench, cut inside near midfield, bounced off a teammate, and sprinted to the end zone for a 75-yard punt return late in the fourth quarter. The return stretched Texas’ lead to 20-6 and provided a critical cushion as Oklahoma tried to mount a comeback. Niblett’s effort showcased the spark that special teams can provide in a big game, especially in a rivalry that always brings heightened emotions and immense pressure.
Texas’ kicking game and field goals
Mason Shipley contributed with three field goals for Texas, making attempts from 22, 48 and 39 yards. He also had two long misses, a 55-yard attempt that hit the upright and a 56-yard try that fell short. While the kicking unit had its share of drama, Shipley’s accuracy where it counted helped keep the Texas offense ahead and provided essential margin in a defensive battle.
What this win means moving forward
Texas improves to 4-2 overall and 1-1 in the SEC, a setback from their earlier ranking notwithstanding. The victory over a top-10 Oklahoma squad re-energizes a program that is looking to re-establish itself as a conference contender and return to the national conversation. Retaining the Golden Hat trophy adds symbolic value to the win, but the real payoff is the path forward: stronger offensive execution from Manning, better protection, and continued improvement from a defense that can handle organized attacks when the stakes are highest.
Looking at the bigger picture
With the College Football Playoff still within reach for a program that is rebuilding its championship window, Texas’ ability to win a game like this—on the road, against a ranked foe, and with a new quarterback at the helm—speaks to the program’s resilience. The combination of Manning’s growth, Niblett’s game-changing return game, and a defensively sound performance creates a blueprint for future success as the Longhorns navigate a demanding schedule ahead.
