{"id":469863,"date":"2026-10-18T17:48:15","date_gmt":"2026-10-18T17:48:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/469863\/"},"modified":"2026-10-18T17:48:15","modified_gmt":"2026-10-18T17:48:15","slug":"texas-football-grades-how-the-longhorns-looked-in-loss-to-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/469863\/","title":{"rendered":"Texas football grades: How the Longhorns looked in loss to Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img alt=\"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:4 \/ 3\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>Familiar concerns popped up again Saturday for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/hookem\/football\/\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Texas football<\/a>, which suffered a second straight SEC loss with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-longhorns-score-today-florida-22473250.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">27-24 setback to Florida<\/a> at Royal-Memorial Stadium: a pedestrian offense, an error-prone quarterback and a defense that didn&#8217;t make big plays.<\/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>All played a factor for the Longhorns (4-2, 1-2 SEC), whose chances\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-florida-football-game-score-22472597.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">of a spot in the College Football Playoff <\/a>seem to be slipping away.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s how the Longhorns graded out in their loss to Florida.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"eager\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Texas fan reacts to a Florida touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Texas fan reacts to a Florida touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns celebrate a punt return touchdown by receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns celebrate a punt return touchdown by receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Texas Longhorns fan reacts to a fumble recovery by Florida during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Texas Longhorns fan reacts to a fumble recovery by Florida during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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) warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown in the first quarter of the game against the Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Raleek Brown (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown in the first quarter of the game against the Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Fans watch the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Fans watch the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) beats Florida Gators defensive back Kanye Clark (20) after a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Emmett Mosley V. (3) beats Florida Gators defensive back Kanye Clark (20) after a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates a touchdown by Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates a touchdown by Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the Florida defense in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball through the Florida defense in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Hudson Powell (86) reacts to the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to Florida during \u201cThe Eyes of Texas,\u201d Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Hudson Powell (86) reacts to the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to Florida during \u201cThe Eyes of Texas,\u201d Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) leaves the field after the 27-24 loss to Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) leaves the field after the 27-24 loss to Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Jermaine Bishop Jr. (4) runs around defense from Florida Gators linebacker Aaron Chiles (8) in the first quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Jermaine Bishop Jr. (4) runs around defense from Florida Gators linebacker Aaron Chiles (8) in the first quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) signs an autograph for a fan as he leaver the field after Texas lost 27-24 to the Florida Gators 27-24 at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Wingo (1) signs an autograph for a fan as he leaver the field after Texas lost 27-24 to the Florida Gators 27-24 at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) celebrates his touchdown in the fourth quarter with wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) during the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Cam Coleman (8) celebrates his touchdown in the fourth quarter with wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) during the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) goes down as Florida defense arrives to defend in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Raleek Brown (0) goes down as Florida defense arrives to defend in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Students cheer for the Longhorns in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Students cheer for the Longhorns in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) leaves the game with an injury in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 end Colin Simmons (1) leaves the game with an injury in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Longhorns take the field ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Longhorns take the field ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The stadium is reflected in Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian\u2019s glasses as he sings \u201cThe Eyes of Texas\u201d after the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The stadium is reflected in Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian\u2019s glasses as he sings \u201cThe Eyes of Texas\u201d after the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the first quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the first quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) carries the ball as Florida Gators linebacker Myles Graham (5) makes a tackle in the first quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Hollywood Smothers (2) carries the ball as Florida Gators linebacker Myles Graham (5) makes a tackle in the first quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns cheerleaders huddle on the field ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns cheerleaders huddle on the field ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Florida Gators take the field ahead of the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Florida Gators take the field ahead of the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) catches a pass to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Cam Coleman (8) catches a pass to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) chases down Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Rasheem Biles (3) chases down Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian speaks with Florida Gators head coach Jon Sumrall as the teams warm up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 speaks with Florida Gators head coach Jon Sumrall as the teams warm up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns mascot Bevo XV arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns mascot Bevo XV arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) holds the ball as he warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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) holds the ball as he warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A fan watches the Texas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A fan watches the Texas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A member of the Texas Marching Band performs ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A member of the Texas Marching Band performs ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas linebacker Jonathan Cunningham (37) misses a tackle on Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas linebacker Jonathan Cunningham (37) misses a tackle on Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) says hello to fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 tackle Hero Kanu (93) says hello to fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The sun rises over Royal-Memorial Stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The sun rises over Royal-Memorial Stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) sacks Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) in the third quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 end Colin Simmons (1) sacks Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) in the third quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) greets fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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) greets fans as he walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field as the team warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks the field as the team warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian takes the field ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian takes the field ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns band performs ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" 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 band performs ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Bevo XV arrives at the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Bevo XV arrives at the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Young Texas fans wait for the team to walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Young Texas fans wait for the team to walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" 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) arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns fans cheer during the player parade ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns fans cheer during the player parade ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns band marches in the Bevo Parade ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns band marches in the Bevo Parade ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" 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 arrives at the stadium ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns band performs ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns band performs ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas fans watch the team walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas fans watch the team walk into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Justin Cryer (28) greets fans as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Justin Cryer (28) greets fans as the team walks into the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Matthew McConaughey watches the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Matthew McConaughey watches the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Texas fan puts his \u201chorns up\u201d in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Texas fan puts his \u201chorns up\u201d in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball off to Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) hands the ball off to Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Kohen Brown (13) leads the team onto the field ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Kohen Brown (13) leads the team onto the field ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) kneels in the end zone ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) kneels in the end zone ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns fans cheer during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns fans cheer during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) throws a pass during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is tackled during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is tackled during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida corner Anthony Rubio (25) breaks up a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida corner Anthony Rubio (25) breaks up a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) tackle Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) and defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) tackle Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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) warms up ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Kohen Brown (13) celebrates a long kick return by Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Kohen Brown (13) celebrates a long kick return by Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is grabbed by the facemark by Florida\u2019s Jayden Woods (0) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is grabbed by the facemark by Florida\u2019s Jayden Woods (0) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Miami Dolphins safety and former Longhorn Michael Taaffe watches the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Miami Dolphins safety and former Longhorn Michael Taaffe watches the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Ryan Niblett (21) runs in a punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Ryan Niblett (21) runs in a punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian watches a play review during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" 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 watches a play review during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Texas Pom member watches the flyover ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Texas Pom member watches the flyover ahead of the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the first quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Raleek Brown (0) celebrates scoring a touchdown in the first quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) collides with defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) during a Florida kick return during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) collides with defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) during a Florida kick return during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas linebacker Justin Cryer (28) celebrates a defensive stop during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas linebacker Justin Cryer (28) celebrates a defensive stop during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns celebrate a punt return touchdown by receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns celebrate a punt return touchdown by receiver Ryan Niblett (21) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) tackles Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas linebacker Rasheem Biles (3) tackles Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida corner Ben Hanks III (12) grabs the jersey of Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida corner Ben Hanks III (12) grabs the jersey of Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) runs the ball during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) runs the ball during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas Longhorns celebrate a defensive stop by edge Colin Simmons (1) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas Longhorns celebrate a defensive stop by edge Colin Simmons (1) during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian leaves the field after the 27-24 loss against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" 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 leaves the field after the 27-24 loss against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns fans hold up the sign of the horns during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns fans hold up the sign of the horns during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Trainers check on Texas defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Trainers check on Texas defensive back Derek Williams Jr. (2) after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida safety Bryce Thornton (1) attempts to intercept a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida safety Bryce Thornton (1) attempts to intercept a pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida safety Bryce Thornton (1) drops an intercepted pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida safety Bryce Thornton (1) drops an intercepted pass intended for Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman (8) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) hypes up the crowd during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) hypes up the crowd during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) goes down after a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Emmett Mosley V. (3) goes down after a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is stopped on 4th down during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) is stopped on 4th down during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"\/Florida players celebrate a stop on 4th down by linebacker Ty Jackson (7) during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\/Florida players celebrate a stop on 4th down by linebacker Ty Jackson (7) during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) sends a pass over the Texas defense in the third quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) sends a pass over the Texas defense in the third quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Texas cheerleader looks at the crowd from behind a sign in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Texas cheerleader looks at the crowd from behind a sign in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass to a teammate in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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) sends a pass to a teammate in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) defends as Florida Gators wide receiver Dallas Wilson (6) looks to make a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 Kade Phillips (8) defends as Florida Gators wide receiver Dallas Wilson (6) looks to make a reception in the fourth quarter of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) sacks Florida quarterback Trammel Jones Jr. (9) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) sacks Florida quarterback Trammel Jones Jr. (9) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) lies on the ground after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) lies on the ground after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Trainers check on Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Trainers check on Texas edge Colin Simmons (1) after an injury during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) is tackled during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida linebacker Aaron Chiles (8) pushes down on Texas quarterback Arch Manning\u2019s (16) helmet after a tackle during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida linebacker Aaron Chiles (8) pushes down on Texas quarterback Arch Manning\u2019s (16) helmet after a tackle during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) misses a catch during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) catches a pass during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Florida Gators huddle on the field during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Florida Gators huddle on the field during the game against Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas wide receiver Emmett Mosley V. (3) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas linebacker Tyler Atkinson (16) is sacked during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas linebacker Tyler Atkinson (16) is sacked during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Lance Jackson (40) tackled Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Lance Jackson (40) tackled Florida running back Jadan Baugh (13) during the game at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas edge Lance Jackson (40) celebrates a defensive stop during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas edge Lance Jackson (40) celebrates a defensive stop during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida players surround quarterback Trammel Jones Jr. (9) after the 27-24 win over Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida players surround quarterback Trammel Jones Jr. (9) after the 27-24 win over Texas at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A flyover passes over the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A flyover passes over the stadium ahead of the game between the Texas Longhorns and Florida Gators at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) carries the ball as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) defends in the second quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Florida Gators quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. (9) carries the ball as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (8) defends in the second quarter of the game at Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) sings \u201cThe Eyes of Texas\u201d following the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.\" 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 end Lance Jackson (40) sings \u201cThe Eyes of Texas\u201d following the Longhorns\u2019 27-24 loss to the Florida Gators at home in Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin, Oct. 17, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>Quarterback: C-<\/p>\n<p>Once again, a fourth-quarter turnover by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/kj-lacey-arch-manning-texas-qb-22481840.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Arch Manning<\/a> helped seal the loss for Texas. The senior made perhaps the best throw of his career with a scrambling dart downfield to Emmett Mosley V for 62 yards on fourth-and-7 to set up a 9-yard TD pass to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/cam-coleman-texas-football-transfer-21289094.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cam Coleman<\/a>. That\u00a0trimmed Florida\u2019s lead to 27-24 with 4 minutes, 21 seconds left in the game. But on the Longhorns&#8217; next drive, Manning lost a fumble at midfield and Texas never got the ball back. For the game, Manning threw for just 173 yards on 14-of-20 passing and never pushed the ball down the field.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Running backs: B<\/p>\n<p>Freshman Derrek Cooper missed the game with an undisclosed injury, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-hollywood-smothers-ou-22462692.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hollywood Smothers<\/a> (12 carries, 52 yards) and Raleek Brown (eight carries, 47 yards, one TD) picked up the slack albeit against a weak run defense. The pair ran hard, but just didn\u2019t get many touches. One note: No back had a pass reception, a rarity in a Steve Sarkisian offense.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-florida-gators-longhorns-22481788.php\" data-link=\"native\" title=\"&#039;Most overrated ever&#039;: Social media piles on Texas football after loss to unranked Florida\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">&#8216;Most overrated ever&#8217;: Social media piles on Texas football after loss to unranked Florida<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Wide receivers: C<\/p>\n<p>Take away that 62-yard reception by Mosley \u2014 the longest play of the season for Texas \u2014 and Longhorns\u00a0wideouts had almost no impact on the game. Coleman had just three catches for 18 yards and continues to serve as perhaps the highest-paid decoy in the country. Ryan\u00a0Wingo led the team with five catches for 49 yards.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Offensive line: D-<\/p>\n<p>A veteran unit couldn\u2019t sustain any drives against a Florida defense that had allowed a total of 83 points in its previous two games, both losses. Of Texas&#8217; 11 drives, six lasted three plays or less. The unit also gave up five sacks. In particular, right tackle Melvin\u00a0Siani struggled in pass protection. Overall, Texas had a total of 272 yards on 50 plays.<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns a punt for a touchdown during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n<p>Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>Defensive line: C<\/p>\n<p>Texas generated just one sack, which came from Colin Simmons in the second half. Unfortunately for Texas, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/colin-simmons-update-injury-texas-football-22481778.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Simmons left the game<\/a> with what Sarkisian called \u201ca lower leg injury\u201d in the second half and did not return after racking up four tackles for a loss. With or without him, the unit had its worst game of the season; Florida converted eight of 19 third-down plays while controlling the clock for 38:11, and the line got shoved around.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Linebackers: C+<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-vs-florida-sec-defense-offense-22472588.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Justin Cryer<\/a> led the team with 11 tackles and Rasheem Biles chipped in seven. But Brad Spence and Colton Vasek again had quiet days, and the positional depth remains a big concern as the season wears on. The starting tandem did help hold Florida star running back Jadan Baugh to 91 yards on 25 carries.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Defensive backs: D<\/p>\n<p>In his first start of the season in place of the injured <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/aarion-philo-florida-quarterback-injury-texas-22476944.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Aaron Philo<\/a>, Florida quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. completed 22 of 35 passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns. He also\u00a0juked Texas safety Jelani McDonald in the backfield on a 9-yard run on third-and-7 late in the game that all but sealed the win. Florida\u2019s banged up receivers had plenty of room to roam all afternoon.<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/columns\/article\/texas-football-vs-florida-sec-steve-sarkisian-cfp-22472808.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">GOLDEN: Texas Longhorns&#8217; College Football Playoff hopes dying after nasty loss to Florida<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Special teams: A<\/p>\n<p>Finally, a bright spot for Texas. Punt returner <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/article\/ryan-niblett-touchdown-video-22481722.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ryan Niblett<\/a> broke out of a season-long slump with a 63-yard punt return for a touchdown, his first of the season. It\u2019s the third punt return for a touchdown in his UT\u00a0career, which ties Jordan Shipley, Aaron Ross and Jim Moore for the school record. Mac Chiumento averaged 42.2 yards a punt, and kicker <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/gianni-spetic-extra-point-texas-ohio-state-22419800.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Gianni Spetic<\/a> made his only field-goal attempt of the game with a 38-yarder. He\u2019s now 9-for-9 on field goals from less than 50 yards.<\/p>\n<p>Coaching: D+<\/p>\n<p>Sarkisian seemed almost shell-shocked in his postgame press conference, and understandably so. The offensive play-caller scripted out a seven-play, 75-yard touchdown drive on the Longhorns\u2019 first drive and followed that with an eight-play, 60-yard drive capped by a field goal. After that? Texas had 167 yards on 36 plays the rest of the game. Sarkisian has to figure out why his offenses start fast but always get bogged down.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Hear Me Out Question<\/p>\n<p>Who is the best Texas college football coach of all time? <\/p>\n<p>Most RecentTop Responses<\/p>\n<p>Frank L<\/p>\n<p>Winter Springs, FL<\/p>\n<p>10\/16\/26<\/p>\n<p>Darrell Royal<\/p>\n<p>Jim C<\/p>\n<p>Manchaca, TX<\/p>\n<p>10\/15\/26<\/p>\n<p>DKR<\/p>\n<p>James S<\/p>\n<p>Georgetown, TX<\/p>\n<p>10\/15\/26<\/p>\n<p>Darrell Royal<\/p>\n<p>D.R. was the best BY FAR.  Mack had superior athletes and won DESPITE COACHING; Gregg Davis was terrible..  i AM 80 AND SAW MANY HC&#8217;s.  D.R. RARELY LOST 2ND HALF UNLIKE SARK who often does frequently because of his play calling despite great players.  D.R. HAD good (NOT GAME CHANGERS) PLAYERS INDIVIDUALLY.  I was in Longhorn band 63-68 and saw every game.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Texas running back Hollywood Smothers (2) runs the ball during the game against Florida at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":469864,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[3230,132,134,133,4971,261,2745,9659,266,3231,537,536],"class_list":["post-469863","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-austin","tag-arch-manning","tag-austin","tag-austin-headlines","tag-austin-news","tag-colin-simmons","tag-college-football","tag-florida-gators","tag-ryan-niblett","tag-sec-football","tag-steve-sarkisian","tag-texas-longhorns","tag-texas-longhorns-football"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/469863","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=469863"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/469863\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/469864"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=469863"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=469863"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=469863"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}