First came the designed safety blitz, positioning Texas A&M’s Dalton Brooks to elude the South Carolina right guard with his speed and bring down quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Then came brute force from 295-pound defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim, overpowering his man and bulldozing into the pocket for a second successive sack. 

This is how the Aggies closed out their memorable, 27-point comeback victory over the Gamecocks two weeks ago. This is the challenge facing the Texas Longhorns come Friday night. 

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Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) runs the ball in for a touchdown after a reception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) runs the ball in for a touchdown after a reception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) fall after Livingstone fails to catch a pass in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) fall after Livingstone fails to catch a pass in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanUnited States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

United States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas Longhorns play the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The Texas Longhorns play the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) ccelebrates after he ran into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) ccelebrates after he ran into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanA pile of Texas Longhorns and Arkansas Razorbacks in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

A pile of Texas Longhorns and Arkansas Razorbacks in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) carries the ball out of the Arkansas defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) carries the ball out of the Arkansas defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) carries the ball in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) carries the ball in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks to get around defense from Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks to get around defense from Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) dives to the ground after a reception in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) dives to the ground after a reception in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe balls sails over the head of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The balls sails over the head of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTeammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Teammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Connor Robertson (62) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Connor Robertson (62) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanBevo enters the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Bevo enters the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanLonghorn Feature Twirler Gracie Williams performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Longhorn Feature Twirler Gracie Williams performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMembers of the Texas Marching Band ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Members of the Texas Marching Band ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns cheerleaders during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns cheerleaders during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA young Texas fans cheers for the team ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

A young Texas fans cheers for the team ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Longhorn Marching Band performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The Longhorn Marching Band performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) goes down under Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) goes down under Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns band member performs outside of the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns band member performs outside of the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanIsaias Roman looks on as he waits for Texas Longhorns football team to make their way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Isaias Roman looks on as he waits for Texas Longhorns football team to make their way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) and teammates watch a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) and teammates watch a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch in the third quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025. 

Fans watch in the third quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025. 

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) scores a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) scores a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is greeted by The Texas Cowboys as he makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium to compete against Arkansas Razorbacks in an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is greeted by The Texas Cowboys as he makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium to compete against Arkansas Razorbacks in an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns fans wait for Bevo XV to make his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns fans wait for Bevo XV to make his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanUnited States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

United States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) chases Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington (4) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) chases Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington (4) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe ball slips through the fingers of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The ball slips through the fingers of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian coaches in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian coaches in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive lineman Maraad Watson (98) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Maraad Watson (98) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receivers Deandre Moore Jr. (0) and Emmett Mosley V (3) celebrates Moore’s touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receivers Deandre Moore Jr. (0) and Emmett Mosley V (3) celebrates Moore’s touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns fans cheer on the Texas Longhorns against Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns fans cheer on the Texas Longhorns against Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) drops during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks cornerback Jordan Young (4) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) drops during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks cornerback Jordan Young (4) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Trey Moore (8),Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) and Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Trey Moore (8),Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) and Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) tries to black the extra point during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk (80) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) tries to black the extra point during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk (80) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches the ball as he runs into the end zone during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches the ball as he runs into the end zone during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates a 3rd down stop during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates a 3rd down stop during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks for room to run during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defense in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks for room to run during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defense in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) goes down surrounded by Arkansas defense in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) goes down surrounded by Arkansas defense in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) runs the ball after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) runs the ball after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) celebrates a reception for a first down in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) celebrates a reception for a first down in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive tackle Travis Shaw (44) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Travis Shaw (44) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) watches a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) watches a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) throws a pass to a teammate in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) throws a pass to a teammate in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks at the scoreboard in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks at the scoreboard in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) runs an interception in for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) runs an interception in for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTeammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Teammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

Texas A&M boasts the nation’s second-ranked pass rush, with 39 sacks in 11 games so far this season. The maligned Longhorns’ offensive line has given up 21 sacks, a number that ranks Texas in the bottom half nationally despite recent improvements. 

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) tries to get to DUPLICATE***Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) tries to get to DUPLICATE***Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-Statesman

“These guys are quick, they’re fast, they’re very aggressive,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said Monday. “They’ve got a really good scheme. I think ultimately we got to use all of the tools to our offense.” 

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The Aggie pass rush is led by defensive end Cashius Howell, who ranks atop the SEC leaderboard with 11½ sacks on the year. Dayon Hayes, another edge rusher, has 4½ sacks on the season, followed by linebacker Daymion Sanford with 3½. 

MORE: How Longhorns used Arch Manning differently against Arkansas
 
Howell’s dynamism in particular enables Texas A&M to generate a rush without devoting extra manpower to the effort. When the Aggies sacked Auburn’s Jackson Arnold five times in Week 5, they needed only a 30% passing down blitz rate. A week later, they registered four sacks against Mississippi State while blitzing on just 20% of pass plays. 

Howell alone has accounted for 38 of the 193 quarterback pressures managed by Texas A&M in 2025. The entire crop of Aggie defensive tackles, by comparison, has 46 QB pressures on the year. 

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Texas vs Texas A&M features battle of elite pass rushes 

That sets up a strength-on-strength matchup in Friday’s Lone Star Showdown. Texas’ tackles, Trevor Goosby and Brandon Baker, are the strength of its offensive line. More than 57% of the pressures allowed by the Longhorns have come from the interior — an unusual feat, considering most defenses position their pass-rushing talent on the edges.

“They have a bunch of versatile guys,” Goosby said. “Cassius Howell is at the top of the nation, just in sacks himself. He’s an amazing player. We’re going to have to do a lot of scouting on him, make sure that we know everything that he can do.” 

The Longhorns’ success — or lack thereof — protecting quarterback Arch Manning, predictably, correlates closely with his production levels. When Manning has faced pressure rates lower than 35% this season, he’s averaging 297 passing yards per game. When opposing pass rushes have overwhelmed the Longhorns up front, Manning is averaging just 182 passing yards.

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MORE: Update on injury status of Longhorns star Anthony Hill Jr.

He has a part to play in managing the rush, too. On the rare occasions last week that Arkansas succeeded in bringing pressure, Manning handled it brilliantly. 

“I think staying ahead of the chains,” Manning said, when asked about the keys to coping with the Aggies’ rush. “Just being disciplined with my eyes and feet and getting the ball to my playmakers, not sitting there holding the ball.” 

Manning is experienced at handling pressure. The Texas offensive line has resembled a collection of stadium turnstiles at times this season, subjecting him to a 38.2% pressure rate for the year. 

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Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed looks to pass downfield against Samford during the first quarter Nov. 22, 2025, in College Station

Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed looks to pass downfield against Samford during the first quarter Nov. 22, 2025, in College Station

Sam Craft/Associated Press

His counterpart, Marcel Reed, has enjoyed much cleaner pockets, facing a 26.6% pressure rate in 2025. 

The Longhorns will be out to change that. 

Their own pass-rushing unit isn’t far behind what the Aggies have mustered. Texas ranks third in the country with 37 sacks on the season, despite a slow start that saw the Longhorns get to the quarterback just nine times in their first five games. 

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Reed’s splits when pressured are dramatic compared to how he’s faired with a clean pocket. With time to throw, he’s completing 67.1% of his passes and averaging 9.7 yards per attempt. When facing a successful pass rush, he holds just a 42.9% completion percentage and an average of 6.4 yards per attempt. 

“Pass rush is important, I think, in every game,” Texas defensive tackle Hero Kanu said. “Just when you have these opportunities to go out there and get to the quarterback, you have to take advantage of it. I think as a defense, we’ve been doing a good job.”