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.

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

No one ever questioned his toughness. Arch Manning doesn’t mind getting hit and his alpha dog nature has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches.

The man took a beating Saturday night against No. 7 Ole Miss and never flinched.

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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.

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-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-Statesman

And most important, he was leading the Texas Longhorns to a much-needed win.

“He’s a fighter,” Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian said. “I like the edgy, kind of borderline, arrogant, full of swagger Arch and I feel like that’s when he’s at his best. Our team feeds off the energy, too.”

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).

MORE HORNS: Best photos from Texas-Ole Miss

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The biggest issue surrounding the face of the Texas program is that Manning has become an all-or-nothing quarterback, a recipe that’s not conducive to ultimate success. He earned kudos for his gutty display in Saturday’s 34-27 nail biter, but some of his decisions were troubling. While we must credit him for the three touchdowns he produced — one passing and two rushing scores — we must also discuss the lost fumble and the two interceptions that pushed his season total to seven.

Six giveaways in his last three games are nowhere near the type of clean football Manning played down the stretch last season. A real cleanup is needed in that area.

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

A great start for Arch Manning, but not so great later

Let’s give Manning some flowers first. He played wonderfully in the first half. He delivered a perfect aerial to Cam Coleman in the first quarter, a pass that should have been a 59-yard touchdown connection, but the $3 million receiver dropped it. He later found Ryan Wingo for another perfect pass, a 50-yarder that put the Horns up 17-3. Manning celebrated with a swaggy strut similar to what WWE fans get from the hulking Oba Femi.

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MORE HORNS: Cam Coleman injury update 

Manning’s first-half numbers were glowing: 13 of 19 for 171 yards, one touchdown (should have been two) and an interception. But things took a turn in the second half when he went 5 of 11 for 10 yards and an interception. Thankfully Texas’ rushing game came to life to bring the win home.

It was good to see Manning dock a win after a rough week that began with him seeking solace from his family after Sarkisian told him backup KJ Lacey would be getting additional first-team reps on the heels of two subpar Manning performances against unranked opponents Oklahoma and Florida.

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.

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-Statesman

Manning couldn’t wait to see his folks Saturday night after getting back on track in the win column.

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“I went over to their place and damn near bawled and cried to them,” he said about his visit last Sunday. “So just being able to see them after the game, it felt good.”

If the Horns are to accomplish the near unthinkable and sweep these final five games to make it to the College Football Playoff after missing out last season, they’re going to need more consistency from QB1. Those seven picks through seven games match the number he threw in 13 starts last year. Remember, this is the same player who entered the season with a streak of having thrown 119 consecutive passes without an interception. In 2025, he averaged only one interception for every 58 passes. This season, it’s one for every 28 attempts.

While his second interception Saturday — a deep pass to tight end Emaree Winston early in the fourth quarter — was obviously a poor decision given that Winston was triple covered, Manning’s response when asked about the throw and an earlier misfire that found the arms of a Rebels defender was, in a word, concerning.o

“I didn’t see those guys,” he said.

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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.

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-Statesman

The Horns won’t survive with the uncertainty in performance. Manning is either a five-star gourmet meal or a microwaved bowl of Ramen. Consistency lies somewhere in the middle, but he’s nowhere near that threshold at this point.

It’s in there somewhere. Manning has been what Sarkisian called “edgy” of late and he has embraced the idea of being the underdog after an offseason hearing about being the favorite for the Heisman Trophy and possibly getting the Horns over the hump and back into a national championship for the first time since 2009.

“I need to continue to get better,” Manning said. “I’ve kind of been hyped up all my life. Everyone tried in the preseason with all this stuff. I kind of like being disregarded and counted out.”

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His teammates have picked up on it.

“He had great energy for us today playing with that edge,” Texas defensive tackle Hero Kanu said. “It’s the line between chaos and control. He did that.”

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 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

Manning is riding a wave of emotions 

Manning has experienced a mix of frustrations at not playing up to last years’ great level when he joined UT legends Vince Young and Colt McCoy as the only Longhorns quarterbacks to eclipse 3,000 yards passing, 25 touchdown passes and 500 rushing yards with 10 rushing touchdowns in the same season with anger at bad fourth-quarter plays that played key roles in two unexpected losses.

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At present, he has thrown for 1,507 yards with 12 touchdowns and the aforementioned picks. He’s completed 63.3% of his passes, a number that needs to be five points higher if the Horns are to reach the postseason.

Mississippi State has fallen on some tough times with three straight losses, the most recent coming against Oklahoma where star quarterback Kamario Taylor left in the first half after sustaining a lower body injury, but the Horns can’t assume anything. They must return to playing to a higher standard on offense and it starts with the most visible guy.

Edge or no edge, he has to be more consistent.

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Roast beef beats Ramen all day long.