Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

As the distributor of playing time, Texas football coach Steve Sarkisian has had a problem on his hands this season.

During an offseason attempt to revamp its rushing attack, Texas added transfers Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown and signed four-star freshman Derrek Cooper. In years past, a Sarkisian offense has leaned on one running back with a suitable backup — think 2022 Doak Walker Award winner Bijan Robinson along with Roschon Johnson — but the Longhorns were taking a different approach to begin this season: Smothers and Brown split carries while Cooper occasionally factored into the mix.

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Brown and Smothers both had 53 carries over UT’s first five games, workloads exceeded by at least nine other SEC running backs. While speaking about his backfield two weeks ago, Sarkisian told reporters “it’s a little bit of a different world for me that way, where historically we’ve had kind of one guy with a backup, and now we’re trying to incorporate three guys, and they’re all very talented players in their own right.”

Sometimes, though, problems solve themselves.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

With Smothers sidelined and Cooper limited Saturday night, Brown carried the burden in a 34-27 win over No. 7 Ole Miss. He rushed 23 times for 157 yards and was only the second Longhorn to get 20 rushing attempts in a game this season (Smothers had 21 against Ohio State). He also recorded UT’s first 100-yard game.

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“A great performance,” Longhorns center Connor Robertson said. “The guy’s a great player. I’m really happy with how he played, really happy with how he’s seeing these zone plays.”

Did Raleek Brown cement his RB1 status?

Brown set Texas up for a first-quarter score on a nice cutback run that picked up 23 yards and temporarily featured quarterback Arch Manning as an impromptu blocker. In the final frame, Brown broke off a 47-yard run as the Longhorns were driving to break a 24-24 tie.

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A Mississippi Rebels defender bats down a pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

A Mississippi Rebels defender bats down a pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) leaves the field in a cart after going down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) leaves the field in a cart after going down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) spins through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) spins through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) huddles with his team in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) huddles with his team in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates with linebacker Justin Cryer (28) after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates with linebacker Justin Cryer (28) after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning runs into the end zone untouched for a fourth quarter touchdown against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning runs into the end zone untouched for a fourth quarter touchdown against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas fans react to the Longhorns’ defensive plays in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter of the their win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas fans react to the Longhorns’ defensive plays in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter of the their win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe ball slips from Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Traylon Ray’s (7) fingers as Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) defend in the last seconds of the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

The ball slips from Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Traylon Ray’s (7) fingers as Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) defend in the last seconds of the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball through the defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning runs into the end zone untouched for a fourth quarter touchdown against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning runs into the end zone untouched for a fourth quarter touchdown against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” for “The Eyes of Texas” after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” for “The Eyes of Texas” after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) swats the ball away from Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) swats the ball away from Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Kade Phillips (8) defend against a final pass to Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Kade Phillips (8) defend against a final pass to Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) goes down as Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) arrives to make the tackle in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) goes down as Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) arrives to make the tackle in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) tackles Mississippi Rebels running back Kewan Lacy (5) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) and defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) tackles Mississippi Rebels running back Kewan Lacy (5) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe moon rises over Royal-Memorial Stadium ahead of kickoff in the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27, Oct. 24, 2026.

The moon rises over Royal-Memorial Stadium ahead of kickoff in the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas Longhorns take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

The Texas Longhorns take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels linebacker Tah'j Butler (49) sacks Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels linebacker Tah’j Butler (49) sacks Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanFans in the Texas student section dance in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans in the Texas student section dance in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels wide receiver Johntay Cook II (0) celebrates a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Johntay Cook II (0) celebrates a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III (11) dives toward the end zone, just inches short of a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III (11) dives toward the end zone, just inches short of a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) smiles after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) smiles after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Marching Band feature twirler Gracie Williams performs in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Marching Band feature twirler Gracie Williams performs in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates with linebacker Justin Cryer (28) during “The Eyes of Texas” after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian celebrates with linebacker Justin Cryer (28) during “The Eyes of Texas” after the Longhorns beat the Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball as Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins (4) and safety Nick Cull (29) chase in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball as Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins (4) and safety Nick Cull (29) chase in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) looks for an open teammate in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) looks for an open teammate in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) tackles Mississippi Rebels tight end Caleb Odom (4) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) tackles Mississippi Rebels tight end Caleb Odom (4) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans cheer as the Texas football team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans cheer as the Texas football team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled by Mississippi Rebels cornerback Jaylon Braxton (2) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled by Mississippi Rebels cornerback Jaylon Braxton (2) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) celebrates a stop in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) celebrates a stop in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an end zone interception with his teammates in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an end zone interception with his teammates in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Karle “KJ” Lacey Jr. (9) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle “KJ” Lacey Jr. (9) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) walks out with the team for warm-us in street clothes ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) walks out with the team for warm-us in street clothes ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the sidelines in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the sidelines in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, second from left, arrives for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, second from left, arrives for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Karle “KJ” Lacey Jr. (9) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Jackson Christian (76) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle “KJ” Lacey Jr. (9) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Jackson Christian (76) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch Bevo XV walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans watch Bevo XV walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian speaks with a member of the Mississippi Rebels staff ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian speaks with a member of the Mississippi Rebels staff ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA cheerleader casts a shadow on the road ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

A cheerleader casts a shadow on the road ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) watches from the sidelines in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) watches from the sidelines in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMembers of the UT Texas Cowboys organization arrive for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Members of the UT Texas Cowboys organization arrive for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian puts his “Horns Up” as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanYoung fans wait to watch the Texas football players walk in ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Young fans wait to watch the Texas football players walk in ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) waves to fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) waves to fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Justin Cryer (28) heads to the locker room after entering the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Justin Cryer (28) heads to the locker room after entering the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch as the Texas football team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans watch as the Texas football team walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head football coach Steve Sarkisian arrives for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head football coach Steve Sarkisian arrives for the game against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) leaves the field in a cart after going down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) leaves the field in a cart after going down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws a pass over the Texas defense in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws a pass over the Texas defense in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanStaff attend to Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) after he went down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Staff attend to Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) after he went down with an injury in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) catches a pass in to score in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) catches a pass in to score in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Mississippi Rebels at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs for a first down against Mississippi in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs for a first down against Mississippi in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs for a first down against Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs for a first down against Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates his interception with teammates Justin Cryer (28) against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates his interception with teammates Justin Cryer (28) against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception with teammates Zina Umeozulu (19) and Justin Cryer (28) against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) celebrates an interception with teammates Zina Umeozulu (19) and Justin Cryer (28) against Mississippi in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) dives into the end zone for a touchdown against Mississippi linebacker Luke Ferrelliand and Mississippi linebacker Luke Ferrelli in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) dives into the end zone for a touchdown against Mississippi linebacker Luke Ferrelliand and Mississippi linebacker Luke Ferrelli in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs past Mississippi Rebels safety Sharif Denson (7) for a touchdown in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs past Mississippi Rebels safety Sharif Denson (7) for a touchdown in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanFans in the Texas student section dance in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans in the Texas student section dance in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III (11) indicates a first down in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III (11) indicates a first down in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ win over Mississippi Rebels 34-27 at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 24, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns block a long field goal attempt by Mississippi Rebels kicker Lucas Carneiro in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns block a long field goal attempt by Mississippi Rebels kicker Lucas Carneiro in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Colton Vasek (92) chases Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colton Vasek (92) chases Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs past Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) and cornerback Jalyn Crawford (0) int he fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs past Mississippi Rebels safety Joenel Aguero (6) and cornerback Jalyn Crawford (0) int he fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian during a timeout against Mississippi Rebels in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian during a timeout against Mississippi Rebels in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III runs against Mississippi in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Michael Terry III runs against Mississippi in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) catches a touchdown pass against Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Horatio Fields (11) catches a touchdown pass against Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) passes in the fourth quarter against Texas at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) passes in the fourth quarter against Texas at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning walks off the field after getting hit in the head in the third quarter against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning walks off the field after getting hit in the head in the third quarter against Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) breaks up a pass intended for Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Traylon Ray (7) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) breaks up a pass intended for Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Traylon Ray (7) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns kicker Gianni Spetic (44) is congratulated by teammates after kicking a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns kicker Gianni Spetic (44) is congratulated by teammates after kicking a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels wide receiver Deuce Alexander (1) misses a catch late in the fourth quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Deuce Alexander (1) misses a catch late in the fourth quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) catches an interception on the final play of the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) catches an interception on the final play of the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels safety Andy Jaffe recovers an onside kick in the fourth quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels safety Andy Jaffe recovers an onside kick in the fourth quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks off the field during the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks off the field during the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a receiver in the first quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a receiver in the first quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo tries to run past Mississippi Rebels cornerback Antonio Kite (8) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo tries to run past Mississippi Rebels cornerback Antonio Kite (8) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas fans get fired up at the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas fans get fired up at the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns kicker Gianni Spetic kicks a field goal in the first quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns kicker Gianni Spetic kicks a field goal in the first quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) passes over Mississippi Rebels safety Nick Cull (29) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) passes over Mississippi Rebels safety Nick Cull (29) in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback Arch Manning warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterbacks Arch Manning, left, and KJ Lacey Jr. warm up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterbacks Arch Manning, left, and KJ Lacey Jr. warm up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas quarterbacks Arch Manning, right, and KJ Lacey Jr. warm up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas quarterbacks Arch Manning, right, and KJ Lacey Jr. warm up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) tackles Mississippi Rebels running back Joshua Dye (28) in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) tackles Mississippi Rebels running back Joshua Dye (28) in the second quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates the win over the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch the Texas Longhorns play the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans watch the Texas Longhorns play the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian congratulates players after a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian congratulates players after a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to an offical in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to an offical in the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) chases Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) chases Mississippi Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns Athletic Director Chris Del Conte looks at a replay during the game against the Mississippi Rebelsin the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns Athletic Director Chris Del Conte looks at a replay during the game against the Mississippi Rebelsin the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Michael Masunas (15) runs against the Mississippi Rebels in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns tight end Michael Masunas (15) runs against the Mississippi Rebels in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanMississippi Rebels cornerback Jalyn Crawford (0) catches an interception intended for Texas Longhorns tight end Emaree Winston (85) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Mississippi Rebels cornerback Jalyn Crawford (0) catches an interception intended for Texas Longhorns tight end Emaree Winston (85) in the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch the Texas Longhorns play the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Fans watch the Texas Longhorns play the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning celebrates with his mother Ellen Heidingsfelder Manning after beating the Mississippi Rebels at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

A heavy workload isn’t uncommon for Brown, a 5-foot-9, 193-pound veteran who split the first four years of his college career between USC and Arizona State. He logged at least 20 carries in three different games while earning all-conference honors at Arizona State last year. 

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning and running back Raleek Brown celebrate after beating Mississippi at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown tries to run past Mississippi Rebels linebacker Suntarine Perkins in the first quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Saturday Oct. 24, 2026.

Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

“I feel like I get better the longer the game goes and the more I get involved,” Brown said. “For most running backs, it’s like that.”

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MORE: How did new Longhorns RB Raleek Brown get that ‘Band-Aid’ nickname?

NO. 11 TEXAS VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE

When/where: 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Royal-Memorial Stadium.

TV/radio: ESPN; 1300 AM, 98.1 FM, 105.3 FM (Spanish).

With Brown leading the way against Ole Miss, Texas produced 207 rushing yards. The Longhorns also threw for 212 yards. This was the first time this season that Texas had 200 rushing yards and 200 passing yards in the same game.

So will Texas continue to feed Brown in the weeks to come? That remains to be seen. Smothers’ status for future games remains uncertain and Sarkisian said Cooper was “banged-up and sick” following a game in which he recorded just one offensive touch. Sophomore Michael Terry III also inserted himself into the conversation after scoring on one of his eight carries against the Rebels.

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Now the No. 11 team in the Associated Press poll, Texas (5-2, 2-2) will host Mississippi State (4-3, 2-3) this weekend. Mississippi State has a top-50 defense on the Football Bowl Subdivision level at 124.6 yards per game.

“We’re continuing to be a work in progress,” Sarkisian said of the run game. “I was proud of (Brown) tonight, knowing he was going to have his number, we were going to have to lean on him.”