The Texas Longhorns, ranked as the top team in college football, had opportunities to claim victory in the Red River Rivalry for the third consecutive year. Despite these chances, Texas faltered during crucial moments of the game, allowing the unranked Oklahoma Sooners to seize a 27-24 victory in Dallas.
Mistakes by the Longhorns, including a missed field goal and two interceptions by Arch Manning in the fourth quarter, proved detrimental. The Sooners capitalized on these errors to achieve the upset win at the Cotton Bowl.
The Red River Rivalry appeared to lean in favor of Texas initially, with Arch Manning delivering a standout performance by rushing left and completing a 41-yard touchdown pass. Although Oklahoma responded strongly in the following quarter, Texas maintained a 17-7 lead during halftime.
However, the Longhorns’ offense struggled to gain momentum, allowing Oklahoma to advance in the fourth quarter. Oklahoma managed to score a field goal in the third quarter amidst a series of punts, but subsequently leveled the score with a touchdown run by Lloyd Avant, erasing their 10-point deficit.
In a pivotal moment, Texas’ Manning overthrew a receiver, resulting in an interception by Peyton Bowen, who scored a 42-yard pick-six. This play put Oklahoma ahead 24-17 with just over ten minutes left.
Though Manning showcased determination by connecting with Cam Coleman and Jermaine Bishop Jr., tying the game at 6:32, Texas faced challenges again. Shortly after advancing the ball, the Longhorns missed a 52-yard field goal attempt, granting Oklahoma possession with under two minutes remaining.
Despite forcing Oklahoma to punt, Texas failed to capitalize. Manning’s later interception stalled their comeback pursuit, and Oklahoma advanced into field-goal range following successive pass plays.
As the game reached its final moments, Tate Sandell successfully executed a 47-yard field goal, securing Oklahoma’s victory at the end of regulation.
Texas experienced its first loss of the season, causing them to lose their leading position in the SEC due to Alabama and Georgia competing later. The Sooners, with a 3-2 record, are now working towards potentially earning a spot in the playoff.