Post by : Meena Ariff

In a dramatic finish, Texas halted Texas A&M’s undefeated season on Friday night, securing a 27-17 victory driven by two crucial touchdowns from Arch Manning. The game, closely contested throughout, shifted when Manning delivered a 29-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Wingo during the third quarter. His decisive 35-yard run in the fourth sealed the outcome, igniting jubilation among the home fans.

Texas improved to a record of 9-3, maintaining slim playoff aspirations. Initially ranked first at the season's start, the team struggled midseason but has now achieved three wins against top-ten opponents. Coach Steve Sarkisian believes their challenging schedule, which included a season opener against Ohio State, will benefit Texas in playoff considerations.

Conversely, Texas A&M entered the game with an unblemished record of 11-0 and needed a victory to clinch a spot in the SEC championship for the first time since joining the conference in 2012. However, in the second half, the Aggies faltered, unable to recover from consecutive interceptions thrown by quarterback Marcel Reed, who had been gaining traction in the Heisman race.

Leading 10-3 at halftime, A&M seemed poised until Texas hit back with 17 unanswered points. The Aggies managed to narrow the score to 20-17, but Manning's lengthy third-down scramble thwarted any hopes of a comeback. He finished the game robustly, completing nine of his last twelve passes for 151 yards, distributing the ball effectively among six receivers.

Texas also revived its run game, highlighted by Quintrevion Wiser's impressive 155 rushing yards. A&M's offense struggled to find its footing after Reed sustained an ankle injury early in the game.

As both teams await the College Football Playoff rankings on December 7, Texas is eyeing their bowl selection, asserting they belong among the top twelve. Meanwhile, despite the projected playoff berth, A&M will reflect on this loss as one of the most devastating in their rivalry.

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