It was a Friday night that the University of Texas Longhorns will savor and the Texas A&M Aggies will long regret. The No. 16-ranked Longhorns upended the No. 3 Aggies with a score of 27-17, dashing the latter's perfect season and dreams of a Southeastern Conference championship game appearance. As KENS5 reports, the game shifted in the third quarter when Texas capitalized to quickly score 17 points.
Texas quarterback Arch Manning was central to his team's victory, completing a 29-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Wingo and later running 35 yards to clinch the game. Manning's versatility on the field was on full display, as he managed to both connect with his receivers and, when needed, decisively take the ball downfield himself. "If you let us in, we can beat anyone," Manning told KENS5, confidently suggesting that Texas is a contender worthy of a spot in the College Football Playoff. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian also expressed belief in the team's playoff prospects, noting that if Texas were sitting on a 10-2 record, "this isn't a discussion."
However, the night wasn't just about Manning's prowess or confidence from the players. Quintrevion Wiser’s formidable running game, which amassed a season-high 155 yards, was crucial for the Longhorns’ control in the second half. According to CBS Austin, the game initially showcased staunch defense, with Texas A&M leading 10-3 at halftime, before Texas ultimately seized the reins.
Meanwhile, the Aggies faced unexpected struggles. Quarterback Marcel Reed, noted for his role in an impressive rally against South Carolina, found himself intercepted twice in the last quarter, once at a crucial moment at the Texas 3-yard line. Despite the setbacks, Texas A&M linebacker Taurean York displayed sportsmanship, stating, "Hurts a lot." Taurean York added, "But you got to regroup and get ready for the playoffs," as per KENS5.
As it stands, both teams now await the final College Football Playoff rankings due on December 7, CBS Austin stated.
