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The Oklahoma Sooners fell to the Texas Longhorns in the Red River Rivalry game on Saturday (October 11) with a final score of 23-6. The game took place at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Texas's Ryan Niblett made a significant impact with a 75-yard punt return touchdown in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory for the Longhorns.
Texas quarterback Arch Manning completed 21 of 27 passes for 166 yards, including a crucial 12-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Moore Jr. early in the second half, giving Texas a lead they maintained throughout the game. The Longhorns' defense was formidable, holding the Sooners to just six points and intercepting Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer three times. Malik Muhammad's interception in the end zone at the end of the first half was a pivotal moment, preventing Oklahoma from scoring and shifting momentum in Texas's favor.
Oklahoma's offense struggled, managing only 258 total yards. Mateer, who returned to the lineup just 17 days after surgery on his throwing hand, completed 20 of 38 passes but threw three interceptions. "I just didn't play good enough," Mateer admitted after the game.
Texas's defense limited Oklahoma to under 100 rushing yards and forced three turnovers. The Longhorns' victory marked their second consecutive win over the Sooners, a feat they hadn't achieved since 2008 and 2009. Texas now leads the all-time series 65-51-5.
Looking ahead, Oklahoma will face South Carolina next Saturday, while Texas will travel to Kentucky. Both teams aim to improve their standings in the Southeastern Conference.