Texas’ offensive struggles in losing to Oklahoma raise questions about Steve Sarkisian’s play-calling and the Longhorns’ chances of making a playoff run.

Texas’ offensive struggles in losing to Oklahoma raise questions about Steve Sarkisian’s play-calling and the Longhorns’ chances of making a playoff run.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

DALLAS — Technically, the scoreboard might disagree, but Texas lost to Oklahoma 24-27 late Saturday afternoon.

That may come across as a little backward, but that was the direction the burnt orange took for much of this game and perhaps the path it’s headed down from here on out, barring an amazing offensive turnaround the next seven games.

Texas sure looked like a team going nowhere.

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Yes, OU was officially the winner when Lou Groza Award winner Tate Sandell calmly booted a walk-off, 47-yard field goal in the final seconds to help the spiraling but inspired Sooners shock the No. 1-ranked Longhorns 27-24 before 92,100 at a sun-drenched Cotton Bowl. It marked OU’s first win over a top-ranked team since beating Missouri in 2007 and first over a No. 1 Longhorn team in six tries.

In doing so, Brent Venables’ 3-2 flawed team snapped a two-game losing streak to Texas and resurrected its season after it was given up for dead, while the 4-1 Longhorns (1-1 in SEC play) fell for the first time this year with one of the ugliest, offensive performances in the Steve Sarkisian era. Unfortunately, that’s becoming an alarming trend because a loss to an unranked Florida team last year kept Texas out of the playoffs and could again this time.

Listed as a touchdown favorite, Texas lost this game in every way imaginable.

The Sooners scored 14 of their points off a blocked punt and recovery in the end zone and a dazzling, 42-yard interception return by safety Peyton Bowen, Arch Manning’s first pick-six in his career and one of two critical interceptions in the fourth quarter.

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Besides that, not much. But not much else was necessary since Texas was getting no cheapies.

“Credit to Oklahoma,” Sarkisian said. “They hung around and made the plays they needed to win. For us, there’s a level of disappointment, a level of anger and frustration for things we have to get fixed, but also a level of optimism. We’ve got a long season to go. We’ve got a good football team, so we’re not dead. We’re going to be OK. We’ll get well and get back up off the mat.”

On Saturday it was as if the Longhorns were pinned to the mat. This was downright embarrassing.

Oklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) intercepts a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) intercepts a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma celebrates beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma celebrates beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma defensive back Trystan Haynes (14) wears the Golden Hat after beating the Texas Longhorns in the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma defensive back Trystan Haynes (14) wears the Golden Hat after beating the Texas Longhorns in the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Jermaine Bishop Jr. (4) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Jermaine Bishop Jr. (4) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma receiver Parker Livingstone (3) celebrates after beating Texas in the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma receiver Parker Livingstone (3) celebrates after beating Texas in the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma celebrates beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma celebrates beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma defensive back Dakoda Fields (9) celebrates a blocked punt returned for a touchdown during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma defensive back Dakoda Fields (9) celebrates a blocked punt returned for a touchdown during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma defensive back Dakoda Fields (9) celebrates a blocked punt returned for a touchdown during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma defensive back Dakoda Fields (9) celebrates a blocked punt returned for a touchdown during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) celebrates a first down during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) celebrates a first down during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) prepares to snap the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) prepares to snap the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) gets up slowly after a tackle during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) gets up slowly after a tackle during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked by Texas defensive lineman Maraad Watson (88) during the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked by Texas defensive lineman Maraad Watson (88) during the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for an open receiver for a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for an open receiver for a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked by Texas defensive lineman Maraad Watson (88) during the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked by Texas defensive lineman Maraad Watson (88) during the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) misses a catch during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) misses a catch during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) dives for a catch during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) dives for a catch during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) throws a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) throws a pass during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma offensive lineman Ryan Fodje (70) recovers a fumble during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma offensive lineman Ryan Fodje (70) recovers a fumble during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanA game staff member runs a replacement pylon to the end zone after a delay at the start of the Red River Rivalry game between Texas and Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

A game staff member runs a replacement pylon to the end zone after a delay at the start of the Red River Rivalry game between Texas and Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry game against Texas at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas edge Colin Simmons (1) hits Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) hits Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas edge Colin Simmons (1) forces a fumble by Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) forces a fumble by Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas edge Colin Simmons (1) hits Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) hits Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) defend against Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) defend against Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Derrek Cooper (5) goes down after running the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Derrek Cooper (5) goes down after running the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) carries the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) carries the ball in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball of to running back Hollywood Smothers (2) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball of to running back Hollywood Smothers (2) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass over the defense in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass over the defense in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) lines up a pass in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) lines up a pass in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) leads the defense onto the field to warm up ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) leads the defense onto the field to warm up ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) heads out onto the field as the Longhorns warm up ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) heads out onto the field as the Longhorns warm up ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA fan cheers for Texas while the Oklahoma bus pulls through as Texas and Oklahoma arrive at the Cotton Bowl ahead of the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

A fan cheers for Texas while the Oklahoma bus pulls through as Texas and Oklahoma arrive at the Cotton Bowl ahead of the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma fans cheer after their team scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma fans cheer after their team scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA Texas Longhorns fan reacts to an interception by Oklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

A Texas Longhorns fan reacts to an interception by Oklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) intercepts a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Oklahoma defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) intercepts a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas Longhorns band enters the stadium ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

The Texas Longhorns band enters the stadium ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners running back Lloyd Avant (9) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners running back Lloyd Avant (9) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners defensive back LeBron Bauer (33) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back LeBron Bauer (33) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma fans cheer after their team scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma fans cheer after their team scored a touchdown in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) prays ahead ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) prays ahead ahead of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas fans cheer for the team moments ahead of kickoff in the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas fans cheer for the team moments ahead of kickoff in the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) catches a pass for a first down in the fourth quarter as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) catches a pass for a first down in the fourth quarter as Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defends during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) runs the ball in to score after an interception in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) runs the ball in to score after an interception in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners tight end John Locke Jr. (44) leaps to celebrate after defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) scored off an interception in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners tight end John Locke Jr. (44) leaps to celebrate after defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) scored off an interception in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners defensive back Niko Jandreau (13) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Niko Jandreau (13) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners running back Lloyd Avant (9) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners running back Lloyd Avant (9) runs the ball in to score in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners wide receiver Elijah Thomas (14) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Elijah Thomas (14) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners defensive back LeBron Bauer (33) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back LeBron Bauer (33) gets the crowd excited at the beginning of the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOfficials break up a scuffle between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Officials break up a scuffle between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) gets away from Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) leaps in an attempt to block a pass from Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) leaps in an attempt to block a pass from Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian holds up the sign of the horns after the loss to Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian holds up the sign of the horns after the loss to Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks the field after the loss to Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks the field after the loss to Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) dives for a first down during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) dives for a first down during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanTexas kicker Gianni Spetic (44) walks off the field after a missed field goal that would have given Texas the lead during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Texas kicker Gianni Spetic (44) walks off the field after a missed field goal that would have given Texas the lead during the Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables takes the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables takes the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables takes the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables takes the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma hands around the the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma hands around the the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma hands around the the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Oklahoma hands around the the Golden Hat trophy to celebrate beating the Texas Longhorns 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to the locker room following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian leaves the field following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian leaves the field following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian leaves the field following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian leaves the field following a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas Longhorns leave the field following their loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

The Texas Longhorns leave the field following their loss to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24 in the Red River Rivalry game in Dallas, Oct. 10, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

Texas’ offense malfunctioned all day long. It betrayed its awesome defense, which held OU to 1 yard rushing in the first half for an 0.1-yard average and 83 in the game. And, despite three terrific touchdown passes from Manning to Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo and Jermaine Bishop Jr., it scored only a touchdown in the second half.

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The Longhorns were undone with three series that went three and out (seven for the game) and the two Manning picks in the last eight drives. They’ve had a distressing 13 three-and-out possessions in their past two games.

All these weapons, all this playmaking firepower, and the team still fizzles. As for Manning, he’s looking like just a guy, a seasoned quarterback who plays well at times but has trouble processing a pass rush consistently and finding receivers under pressure and doesn’t look strong under duress.

As he so often does, he completed only 61% of his throws, connecting on 19 of 31 for 260 touchdowns. But he’s not keeping enough drives alive or making enough big plays in crunch time like so many other elite quarterbacks in college football. For every big moments of spectacular performances like the fourth quarter against Ohio State there are far too many letdowns like Saturday.

His pick-six was a killer.

“Yeah, I was trying to extend a play,” Manning said. “Can’t do that.”

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But it’d be wrong to put all of this at his feet.

Once more, Texas was its own worst enemy, drawing constant penalties and finishing with eight for 61 yards.

They jumped offsides twice in a span of three plays. A questionable pass interference against Kade Phillips in the end zone let to Lloyd Avant’s 2-yard touchdown run to start the fourth quarter and tie the game at 17-all. A roughing-the-passer call against linebacker Rasheem Biles, who hit receiver Isaiah Sategna III — who was throwing a pass on a trick play — negated a Texas interception earlier in that scoring drive.

The special teams also bordered on disaster.

Texas had a punt blocked for a touchdown, had its first kickoff go out of bounds, had no running room for punt returner Ryan Niblett and Gianni Spetic missed his 53-yard field goal try in the final two minutes. That in itself was a huge admission by Sarkisian that even he knows his offense isn’t very good, given he chose the kick over a fourth-and-2 play. It was probably the right decision, simply because this offensive line can’t block well enough to assure a 2-yard run.

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“I thought long and hard about it,” Sarkisian said of the Memphis kicker, who has six 50-yarders in his career but pushed his attempt wide right. “He’s a heckuva kicker. I have a ton of faith in Gianni. I went round and round about it trying to figure it out, but I felt like that was the right way.”

This was more Cotton Bowl clunker than classic.

Quite simply, Texas got exposed.

“We definitely beat ourselves,” Longhorn edge rusher Colin Simmons said. “Only Texas can beat Texas.”

No doubt, Texas sure played its part, but that also unfairly minimizes the impact of a ferocious OU defense and others like Danny Okaye and his blocked punt.

That unit, led by linebacker Owen Heinecke and Bowen crumpled the Longhorns at nearly every turn. Sandell was clutch. Even harassed OU quarterback John Mateer, who was unremarkable in leading an offense to a paltry 238 yards, didn’t have a turnover and found his magnificent receiver Sategna for two critical completions of 13 and 20 yards against Texas’ terrific cornerback Graceson Littleton to set up the winning kick.

But Sarkisian insists it’s all fixable.

Would he consider relinquishing play-calling?

“Not a chance,” he said. “We got to play better.”

Would he re-evaluate Jeff Banks, his special teams coordinator?

The questions are only getting harder. The answers? Well, those may have to change soon, much like his beleaguered offense.