{"id":470199,"date":"2026-10-19T03:10:40","date_gmt":"2026-10-19T03:10:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/470199\/"},"modified":"2026-10-19T03:10:40","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T03:10:40","slug":"why-texas-longhorns-have-hope-after-another-unranked-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/470199\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Texas Longhorns have hope after another unranked loss"},"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: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=\"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=\"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>Seems like not that long ago when\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Texas football<\/a> was No. 1 in the country, coming off a huge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-vs-ohio-state-arch-manning-longhorns-22420608.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">win over Ohio State<\/a> and blessed with a Heisman Trophy candidate at quarterback, a championship-level defense and College Football Playoff expectations.<\/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>It seems like not that long ago because it wasn&#8217;t. Yet those high-in-the-cloud days of mid-September have become an October malaise lowlighted by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-florida-football-game-score-22472597.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Saturday&#8217;s 27-24 loss<\/a> to unranked Florida at Royal-Memorial Stadium. Things started great for the No. 7 Longhorns, but turned sour in the second half that included a scoreless third quarter, Colin Simmons <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/colin-simmons-update-injury-texas-football-22481778.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">getting carted into the locker room<\/a>\u00a0and a Gators rally from a 10-point deficit midway through the first quarter to a 10-point lead midway through the fourth.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><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-gray200 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<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">MORE:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-vs-florida-sec-defense-offense-22472588.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Is the Texas defense playing at a championship level? Yes, but &#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Texas (4-2, 1-2) is going to tumble further back (and maybe even out of) the top 25 and will have to answer a lot of questions over this next week about the coaching, the quarterbacking, the run game, the offensive line, the defense and the play-calling \u2014 like this week, just more intense. The CFP is now in jeopardy, the SEC championship game is now in jeopardy, Simmons&#8217; status is now in jeopardy and, coming off back-to-back losses and reeling in October, the rest\u00a0of this season is in jeopardy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what we saw from Saturday&#8217;s loss:<\/p>\n<p>Rest of Texas&#8217; schedule offers opportunities \u2014 and dangers<\/p>\n<p>Talks of a College Football Playoff may seem, well, silly after a second straight loss to an unranked team. But the Longhorns\u2019 upcoming schedule does offer opportunities for a rebound. Texas still faces four teams currently ranked in The Associated Press\u2019 top 25, including No. 9\u00a0Ole Miss, No. 13 Missouri, No. 16 Mississippi State and No. 22 LSU. Of course, that schedule could also mean plenty more losses for a reeling Texas program that spent a month atop the poll and may now fall out of the rankings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><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-gray200 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<\/p>\n<p>It was ground down for Texas<\/p>\n<p>Texas didn&#8217;t lose its lead to Florida thanks to a collection of explosive plays. Instead, the Gators ground the Longhorns down with 31 more plays and an almost 17-minute edge in time-of-possession. Texas allowed an eight-minute touchdown drive to start the second half, then went three-and-out before punting on the subsequent possession.<\/p>\n<p>That sequence defined Saturday, where Texas was\u00a0outmuscled and out-possessed throughout the contest.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Ryan Niblett finally breaks out, at least<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps the only bright spot\u00a0from the Saturday\u2019s stunning loss? Punt returner Ryan Niblett broke out of a season-long slump.<\/p>\n<p>The All-American return man from a year ago broke loose for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/longhorns\/article\/ryan-niblett-touchdown-video-22481722.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">a 63-yard punt return for a touchdown<\/a>, his first of the season. That&#8217;s the third career punt return for a touchdown in his\u00a0Texas career, which ties Jordan Shipley, Aaron Ross and Jim Moore for the school record. With the offense in a month-long slump, special teams may have to score more points if the Longhorns want to stay in contention for a CFP spot.<\/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>Where are the turnovers?<\/p>\n<p>Texas has completed 12 quarters of SEC play this season. It&#8217;s failed to generate a turnover in a single one.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>The Longhorns didn&#8217;t tally an interception or fumble recovery in Saturday&#8217;s loss, and Simmons recorded Texas&#8217; only sack of the afternoon. The lack of production resulted in a comfortable afternoon for backup Florida quarterback Trammel Jones Jr., who threw for 155 yards and two touchdowns.<\/p>\n<p>Up next for Texas: Ole Miss<\/p>\n<p>6:30 p.m. next Saturday at DKR.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>The No. 9-ranked Rebels are playing No. 13 Missouri today. The Longhorns are facing this top-10 opponent, then gets Mississippi State, then has two ranked road trips to Missouri and LSU before closing with old rivals Arkansas and Texas A&amp;M.<\/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":470200,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[3230,132,134,133,4971,261,2745,81142,266,537,536],"class_list":["post-470199","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-royal-memorial-stadium","tag-sec-football","tag-texas-longhorns","tag-texas-longhorns-football"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/470199","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=470199"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/470199\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/470200"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=470199"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=470199"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=470199"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}