{"id":13497,"date":"2025-10-21T06:52:10","date_gmt":"2025-10-21T06:52:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/13497\/"},"modified":"2025-10-21T06:52:10","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T06:52:10","slug":"could-returner-ryan-niblett-see-more-snaps-on-offense","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/13497\/","title":{"rendered":"Could returner Ryan Niblett see more snaps on offense?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/hookem\/football\/\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Texas football<\/a> season might be over if not for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-transfers-ryan-niblett-punt-return-21098272.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ryan\u00a0Niblett<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-channels-pixel.ex.co\/events\/0012000001fxZm9AAE?integrationType=DEFAULT&amp;template=design%2Farticle%2Fplatypus_two_column.tpl\" alt=\"\" class=\"x1px y1px vh abs\" aria-hidden=\"true\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Not in the literal sense, of course. But Niblett is the reason the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-coach-steve-sarkisian-playcalling-21109989.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Longhorns <\/a>(5-2, 2-1 SEC) can still reach for the goals they set before the season. A third loss with five games left to play would have all but eliminated Texas from College Football Playoff contention.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"eager\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns punter Jack Bouwmeester (19) celebrates winning the Red River Rivalry with the Golden Hat after Texas beat Oklahoma 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns punter Jack Bouwmeester (19) celebrates winning the Red River Rivalry with the Golden Hat after Texas beat Oklahoma 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns place kicker Will Stone (15) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns place kicker Will Stone (15) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) celebrates the Texas Longhorns\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) celebrates the Texas Longhorns\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates after winning the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates after winning the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian and Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrate after winning the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian and Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrate after winning the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Trevor Goosby (74) celebrates with the Golden Hat after the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win with the Golden Hat after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) as they celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) as they celebrates Texas\u2019 Red River Rivalry win after the Longhorns beat the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball off to Texas Longhorns running back James Simon (31) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball off to Texas Longhorns running back James Simon (31) in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. (0) catches a pass in the end zone to score the first touchdown of the game in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. (0) catches a pass in the end zone to score the first touchdown of the game in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Governor Greg Abbot hands Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) The Governor\u2019s Cup Trophy after Texas beat Oklahoma 23-6 in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Governor Greg Abbot hands Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) The Governor\u2019s Cup Trophy after Texas beat Oklahoma 23-6 in the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) carries the ball for a first down in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) carries the ball for a first down in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas defense bring down Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (5) in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas defense bring down Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (5) in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball off a punt for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball off a punt for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) goes to tackle Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) goes to tackle Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) taunts Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) taunts Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fans cheer for their team in the first half of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fans cheer for their team in the first half of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) carries the ball out of trouble as Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) and defensive back Gentry Williams (9) chase in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) carries the ball out of trouble as Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) and defensive back Gentry Williams (9) chase in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Oklahoma defense sack Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Oklahoma defense sack Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fans cheer for their team in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fans cheer for their team in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas scores the extra point in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas scores the extra point in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the third quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) brings Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Keontez Lewis (9) down out of the air as he catches the ball in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) brings Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Keontez Lewis (9) down out of the air as he catches the ball in the first quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian gets off the bus ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian gets off the bus ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) arrives at the stadium for the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) arrives at the stadium for the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fan Bill Melot, from Austin, enjoys a turkey leg ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fan Bill Melot, from Austin, enjoys a turkey leg ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fans Heather and Garrison Ray, from Jarrell, enjoy a ride at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fans Heather and Garrison Ray, from Jarrell, enjoy a ride at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A young Texas fan hoists a large prize while exploring the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A young Texas fan hoists a large prize while exploring the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Fan Avery, 6, slides down the giant slide at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Fan Avery, 6, slides down the giant slide at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball under pressure from Oklahoma defense in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball under pressure from Oklahoma defense in the second quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) carries the ball after making an interception for Texas in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) carries the ball after making an interception for Texas in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) celebrates after making an interception for Texas in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) celebrates after making an interception for Texas in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Renee Richmond rides the log flume ride with Eve and Sarah Mills at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Renee Richmond rides the log flume ride with Eve and Sarah Mills at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fans David, Briana and Brian Morales, from Corpus Christi, play the ring toss at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fans David, Briana and Brian Morales, from Corpus Christi, play the ring toss at the Texas State Fair ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) celebrates as the game draws to a close in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) celebrates as the game draws to a close in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas mascot Bevo walks across the Cotton Bowl to his pen ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas mascot Bevo walks across the Cotton Bowl to his pen ahead of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) wears a lei to celebrate winning the Red River Rivalry, beating Oklahoma 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) wears a lei to celebrate winning the Red River Rivalry, beating Oklahoma 23-6 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) argues with Oklahoma players during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) argues with Oklahoma players during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (5) drops a pass in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (5) drops a pass in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) intercepts a pass during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) intercepts a pass during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) talks to his team during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) talks to his team during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Ryan Niblett (21) returns a kick during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Ryan Niblett (21) returns a kick during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) celebrates a sack during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) celebrates a sack during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) sacks Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) sacks Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns take the field ahead of the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns take the field ahead of the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners running back Tory Blaylock (6) is tackled by Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Hero Kanu (93) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners running back Tory Blaylock (6) is tackled by Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Hero Kanu (93) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Hero Kanu (93) celebrates a tackle for a loss during the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Hero Kanu (93) celebrates a tackle for a loss during the Red River Rivalry against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners running back Xavier Robinson (24) is tackled by Texas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners running back Xavier Robinson (24) is tackled by Texas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) during the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is pressured during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is pressured during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is pressured by Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is pressured by Texas Longhorns linebacker Colin Simmons (1) during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) is sacked during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) runs the ball during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners place kicker Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field goal during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners place kicker Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field goal during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Oklahoma Sooners tight end Jaren Kanak (12) is tackled during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Oklahoma Sooners tight end Jaren Kanak (12) is tackled during the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Lance Jackson (40) and Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) tackle Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) on 4th down at the end of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Lance Jackson (40) and Texas Longhorns linebacker Brad Spence (14) tackle Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) on 4th down at the end of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday Oct. 11, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-kentucky-ryan-niblett-longhorns-21098321.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">With punt returns of 45 and 43 yards against Kentucky <\/a>that helped put 10 points on the scoreboard,\u00a0Niblett dragged a lifeless Longhorn offense over the finish line in a 16-13 overtime win. Add in a 75-yard punt return touchdown against Oklahoma, and\u00a0Niblett can be considered responsible for 17 of the last 39 points scored by Texas.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball off a punt for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball off a punt for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Red River Rivalry, as the Sooners play the Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Oct. 11, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>\u201cNobody in this room, ourselves included, we didn\u2019t think he\u2019d be the kick returner or the punt returner coming into the season,\u201d Texas coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/story\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/2025\/07\/24\/texas-football-contracts-what-doesn-t-make-sense-to-steve-sarkisian\/85353206007\/\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Steve Sarkisian<\/a> said Monday. \u201cBut his role has evolved as the season has gone on. He\u2019s an integral part of what we do on special teams.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Niblett has five returns of 40 or more yards in Texas\u2019 last five games. He ranks second in the country in punt return average (25.3 yards), trailing only Iowa\u2019s Kaden Wetjen. With the ball in his hands, he exudes a dynamism that the Longhorns otherwise lack.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>So, has Sarkisian considered involving him more on offense, where his team is struggling?<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFinding ways to get the ball in his hands on offense I think is a huge part,\u201d Sarkisian said. \u201cI think if I can get him three to five touches a game in some way, shape or form, that\u2019s good. We\u2019ve gotten him like one or two. I think we can increase that.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">MORE:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/arch-manning-benched-steve-sarkisian-quinn-ewers-21109724.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Steve Sarkisian benched Quinn Ewers midgame. Why he hasn&#8217;t done the same with Arch Manning<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-longhorns-football-cj-baxter-return-21109658.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\"> How the return of CJ Baxter could help Longhorns vs Mississippi State<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Niblett, who was practicing with the secondary this spring, is back to his hybrid role that blends running back and wide receiver. He has touched the ball nine times on offense so far this season, averaging 4.3 yards on his four rushes and 7.8 yards on five receptions.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Against Kentucky, the Longhorns entrusted him with just four offensive snaps \u2014 two out of the backfield and two at wide receiver. The previous week against Oklahoma, he played two snaps.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI could do almost any situation (from) a receiver, running back standpoint, wildcat standpoint,\u201d Niblett said when asked what role in the offense would suit him. \u201cPretty much anything. Just use my speed, try to get to the outside. I feel like that just helps me a lot.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Steve Sarkisian wants Texas Longhorns to play complementary football\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Sarkisian made a \u201cshift\u201d in his offensive strategy three weeks ago.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Longhorns, playing to an elite level on special teams and defense, have an offense lagging behind. So Sarkisian and his staff set out to play an offensive brand of football that allowed Texas to win with defense.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cLet\u2019s make sure we\u2019re playing a complementary brand of football to continue to enhance the way we\u2019re playing in those two phases,\u201d Sarkisian said, \u201cand play in a style to where, hey, we\u2019re protecting the ball, we\u2019re going to play a field position game.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>A key aspect to doing that successfully, Sarkisian explained, is converting on manageable third downs. Texas went 1-for-7 on third downs of 6 yards or fewer against Kentucky.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Other components of their new offensive structure have been more successful. For instance, Texas hasn\u2019t turned the ball over in the last two weeks. Its turnover margin for the season now sits at plus-seven, which is second in the SEC behind Alabama and tied for 10th in the country.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The new approach is also shaping in-game decisions, Sarkisian said. He\u2019s opted to punt in a handful of circumstances where he might normally choose to go for it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf you\u2019re not taking as many risks, if you\u2019re not taking as many chances down the field, then you\u2019ve got to be really efficient in those third-down distances,\u201d Sarkisian said. \u201cThen you\u2019ve got to be really efficient in the red zone, because you know that the game can shrink, and there\u2019s not quite as many opportunities.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">Follow the American-Statesman on\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/statesman\/\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Facebook<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/statesman?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">X<\/a>\u00a0for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Access\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cm.statesman.com\/subscriberguide\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">all of our best content<\/a>\u00a0with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/subscribe.statesman.com\/offers?gps-source=CPINTRS&amp;itm_medium=onsite&amp;itm_campaign=2024HSSPRTS&amp;itm_source=digital&amp;itm_term=outmark&amp;gnt-eid=control\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">this tremendous offer<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Texas football season might be over if not for Ryan\u00a0Niblett.\u00a0 Not in the literal sense, of course.&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":13498,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[27,29,537,536,28],"class_list":["post-13497","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-texas","tag-texas","tag-texas-headlines","tag-texas-longhorns","tag-texas-longhorns-football","tag-texas-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13497","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13497"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13497\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13498"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13497"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13497"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13497"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}