Recap

Dominance in Dallas: Texas Defeats Oklahoma 23-6

• Editorial Staff

DALLAS — The Golden Hat is heading back to Austin.

In a defensive masterclass at the Cotton Bowl, the Texas Longhorns defeated the Oklahoma Sooners 23-6, securing their first back-to-back victories in the Red River Rivalry since 2008-2009.

Defensive Dominance

The story of the game was the Texas defense, which held Oklahoma to just two field goals and kept the Sooners out of the end zone for the entire 60 minutes. It was the fewest points Texas has allowed to Oklahoma since the 2022 shutout.

“We talked all week about setting the tone physically,” said Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian. “Our defense played lights out today. To keep an offense like that out of the end zone in this atmosphere is special.”

Key Moments

  • First Quarter: Texas struck first with a 45-yard touchdown pass, silencing the crimson half of the stadium early.
  • Second Quarter: Oklahoma managed two field goals, but Texas responded with a crucial touchdown drive just before halftime to take a 14-6 lead. Arch Manning was efficient in his rivalry debut, finishing 21-of-27 for 166 yards and a touchdown.
  • Turning Point: In the fourth quarter, Ryan Niblett electrified the crowd with a 75-yard punt return touchdown, sealing the victory for the Longhorns.
  • Defense: The Longhorns’ defense tightened the screws, forcing two turnovers and adding three field goals to pull away.

Looking Ahead

With this win, Texas improves to 5-1 on the season and remains in contention for the SEC Championship. Oklahoma falls to 4-2 but looks to bounce back next week against South Carolina.

The victory marks a significant milestone for Texas in their second year in the SEC, proving they can dominate traditional rivals on the biggest stage.