Texas 5-2 After 16-13 OT Win; Manning Struggles

A 45-yard Mason Shipley field goal gave Texas a 16-13 overtime win at Kentucky, lifting the Longhorns to 5-2 (2-1 SEC) despite just 179 total yards. Arch Manning struggled, completing 12-of-27 passes for 132 yards with no touchdowns. Texas' defense dominated, limiting Kentucky to 4.6 yards per play while producing 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, an interception and an overtime goal-line stand. Ryan Niblett's long punt returns helped flip field position and set up scoring opportunities before Shipley's winner. Fans and pundits criticized Manning's decision-making and inconsistency, though some analysts and NFL scouts still cite his size, arm talent, mobility and football IQ and view him as a possible top pick. Coach Steve Sarkisian acknowledged the offense's inefficiency and said the unit must improve if Texas is to sustain playoff and conference-title aspirations.