Lexington, Kentucky, October 20, 2025
News Summary
In a nail-biting overtime match, Texas football edged out Kentucky 16-13 at Kroger Field. Despite struggling offensively with only 179 total yards, crucial field goals from Mason Shipley secured the win, improving Texas’s season record to 5-2. The Longhorns’ defense held strong, allowing just one touchdown and two field goals from Kentucky. As they prepare for their next game against Mississippi State, Coach Steve Sarkisian emphasizes the need for offensive improvement.
Lexington, Kentucky – Texas football achieved a narrow victory against Kentucky, edging them out 16-13 in an overtime thriller at Kroger Field on Saturday. This win marked Texas’s second consecutive success in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, improving their overall season record to 5-2 and 2-1 within the SEC.
Despite the victory, Texas struggled offensively throughout the game, registering only 179 total yards, scoring just one touchdown, and relying heavily on their defense. The Longhorns’ placekicker, Mason Shipley, proved crucial in the win, hitting a 39-yard field goal in the final minutes of regulation to take the lead before kicker a decisive 45-yard field goal in overtime.
Texas’s offensive performance was characterized by significant difficulties. Quarterback Arch Manning completed only 12 of 27 pass attempts for 132 yards without any touchdowns, continuing a troubling trend of inconsistency. Manning also recorded a negative rushing total, finishing with -1 yard on 11 attempts and suffered three sacks throughout the contest.
The offensive line of Texas struggled to protect Manning, allowing constant pressure and failing to establish a productive running game, averaging only 1.7 yards per carry and totaling just 47 rushing yards. The Longhorns managed only eight first downs, compared to Kentucky’s 22, and converted just 5 of 16 third-down attempts.
In stark contrast, Texas was able to capitalize on its defensive strengths. The defense held Kentucky to just one touchdown and two field goals, successfully executing critical stops, including a goal-line stand during overtime. The unit’s resilience was essential in a game where the Longhorns’ offensive shortcomings put immense pressure on them.
Discipline proved a concern for Texas as well, as they committed seven penalties for 50 yards, including a significant penalty in overtime that nearly pushed them out of field goal range. The time of possession also heavily favored Kentucky, who held the ball for nearly 40 minutes while Texas managed just over 20 minutes.
Ryan Niblett contributed positively for Texas, with 43-yard and 45-yard punt returns that set up essential scoring opportunities. However, there remains ongoing scrutiny regarding Manning’s performance, as he continues to miss chances and struggles to establish a rhythm in the offense.
Looking ahead, Texas will face Mississippi State next week in what is expected to be a challenging contest. Coach Steve Sarkisian expressed confidence in Manning despite his struggles, emphasizing the need for the entire team to provide better support as they aim for improvement in their offensive execution.
FAQs
What was the final score of the Texas vs. Kentucky football game?
Texas defeated Kentucky 16-13 in overtime.
How did Texas perform offensively in the game?
Texas struggled offensively, totaling only 179 yards and scoring just one touchdown throughout the game.
Who was the key player for Texas in the game?
Placekicker Mason Shipley was crucial, kicking the 39-yard field goal to lead in regulation and the 45-yard field goal for the win in overtime.
What are the next challenges for Texas football?
Texas will face Mississippi State next week in a highly anticipated matchup.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Texas 16, Kentucky 13 (OT) |
| Record After Game | Texas: 5-2 (2-1 SEC) |
| Offensive Yards | 179 yards |
| Touchdowns by Texas | 1 (Tre Wisner, 1-yard rush) |
| Field Goals by Mason Shipley | 39 yards (final minutes), 45 yards (overtime) |
| Kentucky’s Offensive Yards | 22 first downs, 2 field goals, 1 touchdown |
| Next Opponent | Mississippi State |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Longhorns Wire
- Statesman
- Houston Chronicle
- Sports Illustrated
- Hookem Headlines
- Wikipedia: Texas Longhorns Football
- Google Search: Texas Football
- Google Scholar: Texas Longhorns Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Longhorns
- Google News: Texas Football
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