The Texas Longhorns, top-ranked in the country, stumbled during the Red River Rivalry, leading to a surprising victory for the unranked Oklahoma Sooners. Oklahoma seized a chance when Texas missed a crucial field goal in the final minutes and capitalized on two fourth-quarter interceptions by Arch Manning to secure a dramatic 27-24 win in Dallas.
The game appeared to favor Texas initially. Arch Manning showed skill early on, making a 41-yard touchdown pass while on the move. Oklahoma, however, quickly responded, and despite a 17-7 Texas lead at halftime, the game took a sharp turn in the fourth quarter.
Oklahoma’s offense found its footing, scoring a field goal in the third quarter. As the fourth quarter began, Lloyd Avant ran in a touchdown, drawing the game level after the Sooners were trailing by ten points. Both teams proceeded to exchange punts, but a pivotal moment came when Texas turned the ball over. Manning overthrew his target, and Peyton Bowen seized the opportunity with a 42-yard interception return, putting Oklahoma ahead 24-17 with just over ten minutes left.
Despite the setback, Manning connected with Cam Coleman for a significant 342-yard play, followed by a quick touchdown pass to Jermaine Bishop Jr., tying the game at 24 with 6:32 remaining. Texas managed to force a punt and appeared to be in control, advancing into Oklahoma’s territory. However, their 52-yard field goal attempt failed, giving Oklahoma control with less than two minutes left.
Although Texas forced an Oklahoma punt and had another opportunity, Manning’s second interception of the quarter extinguished their hopes. Oklahoma’s offense quickly advanced, and Tate Sandell secured their victory with a 47-yard field goal as the clock ran out.
This marked Texas’s first defeat of the season, costing them their top spot in the SEC standings as Alabama and Georgia prepared for a crucial matchup. Oklahoma improved to 3-2, contending for a playoff spot.
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