In a thrilling matchup, the top-ranked University of Texas Longhorns secured their first Southeastern Conference victory, defeating Mississippi State 35-13 on Saturday. Led by quarterback Arch Manning, the Longhorns overcame a sluggish start and several costly mistakes to emerge victorious.
Manning shone with an impressive performance, completing 26 of 31 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 33 rushing yards and another score. Despite a few missteps, including a dropped touchdown pass by Johntay Cook II, Manning demonstrated his growth and composure, saying he felt more relaxed compared to his previous start.
The game was marred by errors, with running back Jaydon Blue losing two fumbles and the offense committing eight penalties. Coach Steve Sarkisian criticized his own decision-making, including a questionable field goal attempt and a failed fourth-down conversion. Nevertheless, the Longhorns entered halftime with a 14-6 lead, thanks in part to Mississippi State’s ground-heavy approach.
The Bulldogs ran a staggering 73 plays, but the Longhorns outgained them 522 yards to 294. The game was slowed by 17 penalties, many of which required lengthy reviews. Sarkisian acknowledged the challenges, but praised his team’s resilience and ability to navigate the season’s early stretch without their injured starting quarterback.
With a bye week ahead, followed by the highly anticipated Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma, the Longhorns will look to build on their 5-0 start. Sarkisian expressed confidence in Manning’s abilities, saying the team has learned to count on him, but also emphasized the importance of their injured quarterback’s return. Manning, meanwhile, remains ready to step in whenever needed, acknowledging the team’s ultimate goal: to keep the momentum going.
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