No. 7 Texas defeated No. 18 Missouri 34-20 on Saturday, with the game’s pivotal moment coming in the third quarter when officials upheld a controversial ruling that shifted momentum to the Longhorns.
SEC replay center confirms fumble call on disputed play
Arch Manning was hit from behind while attempting a pass in the third quarter, and a Missouri defender tipped the ball. Officials ruled the play a fumble, with Texas receiver Emmett Mosley recovering it 14 yards downfield for a first down. The SEC replay center reviewed the call and upheld the on-field ruling. Two plays later, Manning connected with Jermaine Bishop for a 25-yard touchdown, tying the game at 20-20. Texas went on to score 21 unanswered points to secure the victory.
Texas improves to 7-2; Missouri drops to 6-3
The Longhorns moved to 7-2 overall and 4-2 in SEC play, while the Tigers fell to 6-3 and 3-3 in conference play. Missouri’s struggles included going 3-for-16 on third downs and scoring just one touchdown in the second half. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian acknowledged the team’s resilience amid criticism, stating, “The DNA of this organization is mental and physical toughness. I think that poured out of our pores today in this ballgame.”
Officiating controversy overshadows Missouri’s competitive effort
Multiple calls went Texas’ way throughout the game, including a replay review that upheld the fumble ruling. Announcers and fans criticized the officiating, with CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford tweeting, “Texas has literally gotten EVERY call in this game AT Missouri. It’s been unfair to the Tigers today.” The broadcast crew questioned the call in real time, with ESPN’s Joe Tessitore remarking, “Are they saying this is not a forward pass and instead, a fumble?!”
Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz declined to criticize the officials directly in his postgame press conference, stating, “If I say what I want to say, I'm going to get fined until I don't have any retirement.” He added, “That’d be disrespectful to coach Sarkisian and his team.” The Tigers remain in contention for a College Football Playoff berth but now face an uphill path after the loss.
Key absences impact both teams
Texas played without receiver Cam Coleman, running back Hollywood Smothers, and left tackle Trevor Goosby. Despite these losses, Manning’s performance in the second half helped secure the win. Missouri’s offense, led by quarterback Austin Simmons, struggled to sustain drives, finishing the game with just one touchdown in the second half.
The officiating controversy has reignited debates over consistency in college football’s replay review process, with fans and analysts calling for greater transparency in officiating decisions.