The Texas Longhorns delivered a powerful performance on Saturday, defeating their old rivals, the Arkansas Razorbacks, in a highly anticipated matchup. The game showcased the fierce rivalry that exists between these two historic NCAA programs, despite the eight-hour distance that separates them. As the players left everything on the field, head coach Steve Sarkisian took a moment to address the injuries that impacted some key players during the game.
Injury updates
Two significant contributors to the Longhorns’ offense exited the game with injuries, prompting Sarkisian to provide updates that were closely followed by quarterbacks Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers.
Texas running back Jaydon Blue had a solid outing against Arkansas, finishing with 14 carries for 83 yards and three catches for 19 yards. However, he was seen wearing a sling after the game. Fortunately, Sarkisian eased concerns about Blue’s condition, stating, “I think Blue’s good. He went with us today and worked this morning. So we’ll see how it goes.”
Wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. also faced injury troubles. He entered the game with a lingering issue and sustained a foot injury during the contest. Despite only registering a catch for negative eight yards against Arkansas, Moore has made an impact this season with 20 receptions for 263 yards and five touchdowns. His return is crucial as Texas looks to secure a strong finish to the season and make a push for the College Football Playoffs.
“DeAndre got nicked up during the game with a foot injury,” Sarkisian explained. “Again, those two guys (along with LB Morice Blackwell) are integral parts of our program, not only on offense and defense, but on special teams. They’re critical. So hopefully we get both those guys back.”
Ewers’ strong game against Arkansas
Despite the injury concerns, the Longhorns’ offense was led efficiently by quarterback Quinn Ewers. He played a clean game, steering the team to a turnover-free outing for the second consecutive week. While he may not have dazzled as he did in previous games, Ewers executed the game plan effectively, helping Texas secure a vital victory in this heated rivalry.
Interestingly, the Longhorns were in control enough that Sarkisian did not make a quarterback change, allowing Arch Manning to observe from the sidelines. This decision underscores the confidence Sarkisian has in Ewers to lead the team in critical moments.
Sarkisian’s emotional message to team after win vs Arkansas
The victory over Arkansas was more than just another win for the Longhorns; it was a moment filled with emotion and significance. Sarkisian, reflecting on his previous experience against the Razorbacks—a tough 40-21 loss in 2021—expressed the importance of this win to his players.
“Like I told the team in there, don’t let these moments go by without taking it in, because these are the memories that are gonna last a lifetime, and they’re going to remember being in that locker room today. Especially the guys that were here a few years ago, and what that felt like so we were as coaches, we’re the same way.”
The Longhorns are not just satisfied with this victory; they have their sights set on even bigger goals. With the College Football Playoffs looming, Texas must continue to perform at a high level. Their next challenge is against the Kentucky Wildcats, a team that, despite being unranked with a 1-6 SEC record, cannot be underestimated. The Longhorns must maintain their focus and avoid any slip-ups as they aim to bolster their playoff credentials.
The Longhorns knew what they’d be walking into
The atmosphere in Fayetteville was electric, as the Longhorns faced the Razorbacks in a game that promised fireworks. The longstanding animosity between these two programs is palpable, and fans were eager to witness another chapter in this storied rivalry.
As the Longhorns took the field, it was clear that the players understood the significance of this matchup. The history, the passion, and the pride of both teams fueled the intensity on the gridiron. Texas fans were hopeful that their team would rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable performance.
In the end, the Longhorns not only walked away with a victory but also a renewed sense of purpose as they look to navigate the rest of the season. With their eyes firmly set on the playoffs, the team knows that every game counts, and they must continue to build on this momentum. The road ahead may be challenging, but the Longhorns are ready to face it head-on, united and determined.
