Texas Survives Ole Miss Rally to Win 34-27, Securing Arch Manning's Starting Job
No. 17 Texas defeated No. 7 Ole Miss 34-27 in Austin, ending a two-game losing streak despite blowing a 24-3 halftime lead. Quarterback Arch Manning secured his starting role after a gritty performance, while the Longhorns avoided a third consecutive loss. The victory stabilizes Texas' College Football Playoff odds, though special teams errors and turnovers nearly cost them the game.
Key points
- Texas led 24-3 at halftime but allowed Ole Miss to score 21 unanswered points in the second half, tying the game at 24.
- Arch Manning threw for 212 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, but his rushing touchdowns and resilience helped secure the win.
- The Longhorns avoided a three-game skid, their first since 2021, after losing to Florida and Oklahoma in previous weeks.
- Ole Miss missed a field goal and failed to convert an onside kick in the final minutes, allowing Texas to win via a Hail Mary interception.
- Texas' next game is against Mississippi State at home on October 31.
Background
Texas had lost its previous two games by blowing large leads, including a 27-24 loss to Florida and a 27-24 loss to Oklahoma. Arch Manning's starting job was in jeopardy due to a shaky junior season, with backup KJ Lacey receiving more reps earlier in the week. This win stabilizes Texas' playoff odds, which had dropped after the recent losses.
Why it matters
The win prevents Texas from falling further out of the College Football Playoff picture and secures Arch Manning's position as the starting quarterback. It also highlights the team's resilience despite significant special teams and offensive errors, a pattern seen in previous losses this season.
What to watch
Texas will face Mississippi State at home on October 31. Arch Manning is expected to retain his starting role, and the team will look to build momentum for the remainder of the season.
- Texas, Arch Manning pull off gritty win after blowing 21-point lead to Ole Miss New York Post
- Arch Manning, Texas survive Ole Miss after another second-half meltdown creates Austin anxiety Fox News
- Replay, highlights as Texas beats No. 7 Ole Miss in thriller Austin American-Statesman
- No. 19 Texas holds off second half surge from No. 7 Ole Miss for 34-27 win KXAN Austin
- Arch Manning and Steve Sarkisian Silence the Noise for Now but Enormous Questions Remain for Texas Bleacher Report
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