The Texas Longhorns escaped a third consecutive loss to Ole Miss, but the victory came with significant caveats in their weekly performance grades. The offense earned a B-, reflecting a frustratingly uneven display that has become characteristic of this squad. Arch Manning delivered multiple elite plays, showcasing his ability to extend drives, but these moments were undercut by poor decision-making and costly turnovers. The offensive line provided solid run blocking early on, yet its pass protection faltered critically, leading to a fumble that jeopardized the game’s outcome.
Manning’s elite plays mask a chaotic performance as Texas survives to keep CFP hopes alive
Key takeaways from the offensive line of scrimmage highlight a stark contrast between the run and pass games. While the rushing attack was effective in establishing rhythm, it became anemic in the third quarter, failing to sustain momentum when needed most. The wide receiver corps left substantial yardage on the field, most notably when Cam Coleman dropped an open touchdown pass—a critical error in a tight contest. Despite these flaws, a clear identity is emerging: a run-heavy scheme that leverages Manning’s legs and seeks explosive plays to keep the team competitive for a College Football Playoff berth.
On the other side of the ball, the defense delivered an impressive performance, earning high marks for its overall execution and pressure. However, the unit’s grade was tempered by a barrage of penalties that disrupted its flow and gave Ole Miss additional opportunities. Meanwhile, special teams received a D, reflecting a lack of consistency and impact that could prove costly in future high-stakes matchups. As the Longhorns look ahead, the coaching staff must address these uneven performances to ensure the team’s resilience translates into sustained success.
Source: Yahoo Sports
