No. 19 Texas defeated No. 7 Ole Miss 34-27 Saturday night, snapping a two-game losing streak in a game decided on the final play.
Quarterback Arch Manning completed 18 of 30 passes for 212 yards and one touchdown, adding two rushing touchdowns. He also threw two interceptions and fumbled once on a blindside hit.
Coach Steve Sarkisian had challenged Manning after the Florida loss, saying he needed a "better version" of his quarterback. Manning responded with an "edgy" demeanor all week leading into the Ole Miss game. "I like the edgy, kind of borderline arrogant, full-of-swagger Arch," Sarkisian said. "That's when he's at his best."
Texas led 24-3 at halftime, with Manning completing 13 of 19 passes for 171 yards in the first half. After his second interception, Texas shifted to its ground game. Manning threw for 41 yards in the second half as the Longhorns emphasized rushing.
Running back Raleek Brown carried 23 times for 157 yards, his most carries since Hollywood Smothers was sidelined by injury. Texas rushed for 207 yards overall, averaging 4.9 yards per carry—well above its season average of 3.6 yards entering the contest.
Manning's key play came on a naked bootleg where he high-stepped into the end zone, giving Texas a 31-24 lead with 8:04 remaining. On his second interception, he said he did not see the cornerback on an overthrown deep ball.
Ole Miss trailed 34-27 with 1:22 left when Rebel quarterback Trinidad Chambliss launched a Hail Mary from the 29-yard line after recovering an onside kick. Texas defensive back Jelani McDonald intercepted the pass as time expired, sealing the victory.
