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.

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-Statesman

The No. 17 Texas Longhorns did what they had to do Saturday as they chase their narrowed College Football Playoff path: not only beat the Arkansas Razorbacks, but beat them impressively.

Texas’ 52-37 win was a late-season statement for the Longhorns, who got a huge performance from quarterback Arch Manning (six total touchdowns) and made several big plays on defense (two turnovers and a defensive TD). Middle linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. missed the game, but the Longhorns’ defense didn’t miss a beat and looked solid in response to last week’s big loss to Georgia. It’s the second-most points the Longhorns have produced in this rivalry series that dates back to the old Southwest Conference. 

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Here’s what we saw from Saturday’s game:

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) 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-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 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 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 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-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-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-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 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 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 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-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 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-Statesman

Arch Manning’s star power is growing

In case any Texas fan needed a reminder after the past month or so, quarterback Arch Manning is blossoming into a full-blown superstar. The Longhorns (8-3, 5-2 SEC) still have issues running the ball 98 yards on 27 carries, an average of 3.6 yards per carry. But who needs a ground game when you have the arm, legs and hands of Manning? The third-year quarterback threw for a career-high 389 yards, ran for another score and even caught a touchdown pass from Parker Livingstone on a trick play in the first half. Manning has undeniable star power, and he’s only begun to shine.

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Texas defense wasn’t perfect, but made plays

The Longhorns spent the first portion of Saturday’s game trading touchdowns with the Razorbacks in a troubling continuation of the defensive frailties that have plagued Texas over the course of the last month. In the second half, though, Texas rebounded. The Longhorns held Arkansas to 30 points and forced two turnovers that helped transform the game into a rout. First, Jelani McDonald intercepted Taylen Green, leading to seven Texas points. Then, Colin Simmons forced a fumble that Liona Lefau returned 52 yards to the end zone, giving the Longhorns a 52-24 advantage.

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.

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-Statesman

Texas needs MLB Anthony Hill Jr. back. Quickly.

All-American middle linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. missed the game with a reported broken bone in his hand, and the Longhorns better hope he’s able to play with a cast next week against Texas A&M. Arkansas gutted the Texas defense early in the game behind the combination of dual-threat quarterback Taylen Green and bruising runner Mike Washington Jr. Both those Hogs left the game early because of injuries, which helps explain why the Longhorns held them to three points in the second half until a late score in the fourth. But this defense lacks some punch without Hill, especially against the run.

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What is going on with Texas’ special teams?

A week after a surprise onside kick sunk Texas against Georgia, the Longhorns again failed to deliver in the game’s third phase. A bizarre punt return formation in the first half put both DeAndre Moore Jr. and Ryan Niblett back to receive an Arkansas kick. The ball was headed for the end zone, but Moore picked it up anyway, giving the Longhorns terrible field position at their own 8-yard line. Jack Bouwmeester struggled, too, netting an average of just 36.3 yards on his three punts.

Up next for Texas: Texas A&M

6:30 p.m. next Friday at Royal-Memorial Stadium. It’s an ABC game.

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It’ll be the first Texas-Texas A&M game at DKR since Thanksgiving night 2010, a 24-17 win for the 17th-ranked Aggies. Texas’ last home win in the series was 2008. The Aggies blew out Samford 48-0 earlier Saturday.