Oklahoma Upsets Texas in Red River Rivalry

The Texas Longhorns, ranked at the top, had multiple opportunities to secure a third consecutive win in the Red River Rivalry. However, they faltered on a crucial stage of the college season. Instead, unranked Oklahoma Sooners capitalized on a missed field goal during the final moments and two fourth-quarter interceptions by Arch Manning, triumphing with a 27-24 upset victory in Dallas.

Texas started strong, with Arch Manning making a remarkable 41-yard touchdown throw after running to his left. While Oklahoma quickly matched this in the following quarter, Texas managed to hold a 17-7 lead by halftime.

In the second half, the Longhorns’ offense lost momentum, while the Sooners started gaining ground in the fourth quarter. An Oklahoma field goal in the third quarter kept the pressure on, but the teams mostly exchanged punts. The Sooners then scored a game-tying touchdown run by Lloyd Avant in the fourth quarter, wiping out their earlier deficit.

“Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Peyton Bowen celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Texas Longhorns during the second half at Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, on Oct. 10, 2026.” – Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images

Following this, Manning overthrew a pass, intercepted by Peyton Bowen, who returned it for a 42-yard touchdown, pushing Oklahoma to a 24-17 lead with 10:07 left. Although Manning connected with Cam Coleman on a significant 342-yard pass, bringing all the momentum back to Texas, and later found Jermaine Bishop Jr. to equalize the score with 6:32 to go, the Longhorns failed to maintain their lead.

Texas pressured Oklahoma into a quick punt, regaining control of the game. They moved quickly downfield but missed a crucial 52-yard field goal attempt wide-right. Oklahoma then gained possession with 1:54 remaining. After another punt by Oklahoma, Texas had another chance, but Manning threw yet another fourth-quarter interception.

During the final seconds, Oklahoma executed back-to-back pass plays that set them up for a game-winning field goal by Tate Sandell from 47 yards as time expired.

“Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman Trent Wilson tackles Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning during the first half at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas.” – Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images

This defeat marked Texas’s first loss of the season. They relinquished their top spot in the SEC, with undefeated teams Alabama and Georgia vying for dominance later that Saturday. Oklahoma’s victory improved their record to 3-2, boosting their chances for playoff contention.