AUSTIN, Texas — Texas quarterback Arch Manning made a strong comeback after a concussion, throwing for 328 yards and three touchdowns to lead the No. 20 Longhorns to a 34-31 victory over No. 9 Vanderbilt. His game started with a bang—he hit Ryan Wingo for a 75-yard touchdown on the first play.
Texas led 34-10 in the fourth quarter, but Vanderbilt made a last-ditch effort to come back. Quarterback Diego Pavia scored a rushing touchdown and later connected with Eli Stowers for a 67-yard score, bringing the Commodores within reach. Their hopes faded when an onside kick rolled out of bounds, sealing their fate.
Coach Steve Sarkisian called it “almost a playoff type game,” emphasizing the need for focus in their conference. Manning, who had been in concussion protocol after the previous week’s overtime win against Mississippi State, was relieved to be back on the field. “I felt good the whole time,” he said, echoing the mood of his team.
Throughout the game, Manning completed 25 of 33 passes and had strong support from running back Quintrevion Wisner, who rushed for 75 yards and a touchdown. Wingo also shined with two receptions for 89 yards. Manning was mostly well protected, which allowed him to perform under pressure, a rare occurrence this season.
Vanderbilt struggled against a Texas defense that sacked Pavia six times. Still, he managed a career-high 365 yards passing. Coach Clark Lea noted that Pavia finished strong, but a missed 48-yard field goal attempt loomed large.
For Texas, this win solidifies their position as a contender in the SEC after a rocky start to the season. Their recent four-game winning streak, including this victory, keeps them in contention for the College Football Playoff.
Vanderbilt’s loss complicates their aspirations for the SEC title. They were close to making history, aiming for their highest ranking since reaching No. 7 in 1937.
Both teams are looking ahead: Vanderbilt will host Auburn on November 8, while Texas faces No. 5 Georgia on November 15.
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