College football is back in the Lone Star State, and the University of Texas pulled off a stunning upset against the No. 1-ranked Ohio State University in what became one of the most improbable comebacks in college football history.
On Saturday, the University of Texas hosted the No.1 Ohio State Buckeyes in a highly anticipated matchup at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The Buckeyes appeared to have the game under control, taking a 23-3 lead into the fourth quarter.
In the first half of the game, Ohio State dominated, scoring 20 points while Texas managed only a field goal before halftime.
The third quarter continued to look bleak for Texas. The Longhorns failed to score, while Ohio State added three points to extend its lead to 23-3 heading into the fourth quarter.
However, the game began to turn around for the Longhorns in the fourth quarter. Passes began to click between quarterback Arch Manning and his receivers, while Texas’ running backs began finding ways to wear down the Buckeyes’ defense.
Texas scored two touchdowns to cut the deficit to 23-17. Ohio State then had a chance to extend its lead, but kicker Connor Hawkins missed a 45-yard field goal with just over four minutes remaining.
With four minutes left on the clock, Manning completed four of five passes on the final possession before the Longhorns reached the goal line. Running back Hollywood Smothers then scored on a 1-yard touchdown run with 25 seconds remaining, giving Texas a 24-23 lead.
On Sunday, the AP Top 25 poll was released, showing Texas had moved up to the No. 1 spot, while Ohio State dropped to No. 6.
The ranking gives Texas its earliest No. 1 regular-season ranking since 1965. The victory also marked the Longhorns’ biggest regular-season win in six seasons under Sarkisian.
Texas is set to play the University of Texas at San Antonio on Saturday, Sept. 19.
