Manning’s Three TD Throws Lift Texas Past Mississippi State 31-3

A Decisive Victory in Austin

The Texas Longhorns secured a commanding 31-3 win over the visiting Mississippi State Bulldogs on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. The victory was driven by Arch Manning’s precise passing performance and a defense that stifled the Bulldogs’ offense for three quarters. Texas improved its record to 6-2, while Mississippi State fell to 4-4.

First Half Dominance

Texas opened the scoring in the first quarter when Cam Coleman caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from Manning. Gianni Spetic’s kick extended the lead to 7-0. The Longhorns doubled their advantage early in the second quarter with a 45-yard field goal by Spetic, making the score 10-0.

The defense provided a critical turning point later in the half. Maraad Watson recovered a fumble and returned it 61 yards for a touchdown, capped by another successful kick from Spetic. This defensive stop pushed the margin to 17-0 before Mississippi State could get on the board.

Bulldogs’ Only Score and Third Quarter Action

Mississippi State managed its only points of the game in the third quarter. Kyle Ferrie connected on a 30-yard field goal, bringing the score to 17-3. However, Texas responded immediately with another Manning touchdown pass. Raleek Brown caught a 4-yard pass from Manning, and Spetic’s extra point made it 24-3.

Closing Out the Game

The Longhorns sealed the victory in the fourth quarter. Emmett Mosley V caught a 42-yard touchdown pass from Manning, extending the lead to 31-3. Spetic’s kick completed the scoring for this play.

Manning finished the game completing 16 of 20 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns. His connection with Mosley V was particularly impactful, as the receiver caught four passes for 98 yards and a score. Raleek Brown contributed on the ground with eight carries for 30 yards.

For Mississippi State, AJ Swann attempted 15 passes, completing 12 for 97 yards. Fluff Bothwell carried the ball 17 times for 49 yards, while Marquis Johnson led the receiving corps with six catches for 61 yards.

The game drew an attendance of 103,586 to Austin. Texas’s offensive efficiency and defensive stops were the defining factors in a lopsided contest that showcased the Longhorns' depth and execution against a resilient Bulldogs squad.

Sources

ESPN