Arch Manning spent two weeks hearing criticism after losses to Oklahoma and Florida. His answer came on the field: a 34-3 first-half explosion that carried Texas to a 34-27 win over Mississippi and got the Longhorns’ playoff hopes back off the mat. Now No. 11 Texas (5-2, 2-2 SEC) returns home Saturday night to face a Mississippi State team that has lost its footing since a 4-0 start.
The Bulldogs’ slide traces directly to quarterback Kamario Taylor, who is out for the season with a toe injury requiring surgery. Coach Jeff Lebby won’t name a starter between Billy Puckett and AJ Swann until game time, though Steve Sarkisian still expects Mississippi State’s up-tempo style to stress the Longhorns. Texas has its own injury concerns: left tackle Trevor Goosby is reportedly out for the season following knee surgery, and edge rusher Colin Simmons is doubtful with a high ankle sprain despite 10 1/2 sacks on the year.
The stat worth watching Saturday night is Texas’s third-quarter scoring: just six points all season. A fast start has carried the Longhorns; the question is whether they can finally put a game away after halftime. Kickoff is set for Saturday night in Austin, and Ellis County fans will be watching closely. What’s your prediction for the final score? Drop it in the comments.
