AUSTIN, Texas — Arch Manning led the No. 16 Texas Longhorns to a stunning 27-17 victory over No. 3 Texas A&M on Friday night, ending the Aggies’ perfect season and dashing their hopes of competing in the Southeastern Conference championship. Manning’s performance, featuring a touchdown pass and a crucial late-game rushing score, solidified his reputation as a pivotal player in Texas’ push for the College Football Playoff.

In a tightly contested matchup, Manning connected with Ryan Wingo for a 29-yard touchdown in the third quarter, giving Texas a 13-10 advantage. With just over seven minutes remaining, Manning sealed the game with a 35-yard run up the middle, extending the Longhorns’ lead to 27-17 and ultimately securing the win.

This victory marks Texas’ third defeat of a top-10 opponent this season, keeping their playoff aspirations alive. Head coach Steve Sarkisian expressed confidence in his team’s eligibility for the playoffs, stating, “We are absolutely a playoff team and worthy of an opportunity to play for a national championship.” If selected, Texas would make history as the first three-loss team to enter the playoffs.

Despite dominating the first half with a 10-3 lead, the Aggies faltered in the second half, failing to generate momentum. Quarterback Marcel Reed, who had been a rising star, struggled with two critical interceptions in the final quarter, including one thrown from the Texas 3-yard line. This loss stings for Texas A&M, which has never reached the SEC title game since joining the conference in 2012.

“Hurts a lot,” said linebacker Taurean York, highlighting the emotional impact of the defeat. However, York emphasized the need to regroup and focus on the upcoming playoff opportunity. Reed acknowledged the team’s lack of offensive rhythm late in the game, as the Aggies were forced to punt multiple times in the decisive third quarter.

Texas, recovering from an early-season slump that saw them drop out of the rankings after starting at No. 1, showcased a revived running game that had previously struggled. Quintrevion Wiser led the ground attack with a season-high 155 yards, contributing significantly to the Longhorns’ offensive resurgence in the second half.

In a moment of tension, Reed endured a brief injury scare in the first quarter when he rolled his ankle, but he quickly returned to the field. Despite the setback, Texas A&M was unable to capitalize on their scoring drives. A blocked field goal attempt by Ethan Burke prevented the Aggies from expanding their lead early in the game.

Looking ahead, Texas A&M awaits the final College Football Playoff rankings, set to be revealed on December 7. Meanwhile, Texas will be eyeing their bowl game destination, holding hope for a playoff berth after this significant victory.