Texas Secures 16-13 OT Win Over Kentucky Amid Offensive Struggles

Texas escaped with a 16-13 overtime win at Kentucky when Mason Shipley drilled a 45-yard OT field goal after two earlier long kicks, aided by two huge punt returns from Ryan Niblett that set up Texas scores. The Longhorns managed just 171–179 total yards and eight first downs as Arch Manning struggled — completing 12-of-27 for 132 yards, under 50% accuracy, and almost no rushing production — a regression after last week’s strong outing. Kentucky outgained Texas roughly two-to-one (about 395 yards) and dominated time of possession but failed to convert critical chances, including a fourth-and-goal in overtime that Florida’s defense stopped at the goal line. Texas’ defense (including three sacks from Colin Simmons) and Shipley’s clutch kicking masked an otherwise non-existent offense, prompting mounting fan and analyst frustration with Manning. The win improved Texas to 5-2 (2-1 SEC) but did little to quiet doubts about the Longhorns’ College Football Playoff credentials.