Texas 34, Oklahoma 3

TLDR: The Texas Longhorns secured a dominant victory over Oklahoma in their first Red River matchup as part of the Southeastern Conference, triumphing 34-3 with the help of a strong performance by quarterback Quinn Ewers. After returning from injury, Ewers managed 199 passing yards, a go-ahead touchdown, and a rushing score. Running back Quintrevion Wisner contributed significantly with 118 rushing yards and a touchdown, despite a fumble that turned into a score thanks to a recovery by Silas Bolden. The game marked the 120th edition of the historic rivalry, with Texas now leading the series. Oklahoma struggled offensively, with freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. throwing for 120 yards and Oklahoma managing just 225 total yards. Texas continues their impressive season, aiming for more accolades, while Oklahoma faces challenges amid injuries and tactical adjustments.

The Red River Showdown, one of college football’s most storied rivalries, witnessed another classic installment as the Texas Longhorns decisively overcame the Oklahoma Sooners in their first conference clash now snug under the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Texas’ quarterback sensation, Quinn Ewers, returned to form leading the charge with a commanding 34-3 victory over Oklahoma, who came into the game ranked 18th. After a short hiatus due to an abdomen strain, Ewers resumed the game with 199 passing yards and added significance to the win with both a go-ahead touchdown and a running score ensuring Longhorn dominance.

Ewers, whose performance echoed his remarkable start two years ago against the same opponent with a 49-0 win, expressed joy at this consistent victory track, admitting, “It’s been fun the past three years, and I’m super glad to be 2-1… The overall experience and atmosphere is, it’s unbeatable.” While he overcame a rough start with a sack on the first play and an early interception, Ewers finished strong, completing 20 passes out of 29 attempts, demonstrating resilience and tenacity.

The Longhorns’ offensive artillery included Quintrevion Wisner, who dashed across 118 yards, punctuating his effort with a touchdown. His drive towards the end zone was buttressed by Silas Bolden, who swooped in to recover a fumble caused by Wisner just in time, turning potential disaster into a touchdown, solidifying Texas’s 21-3 halftime lead.

As the rivalry game fell under new stipulations of SEC play for the first time, it marked 120 years since this tradition began, baked into the ambiance of the State Fair of Texas since 1929. Texas’s current win further tilts the series in their favor, holding a 64-51-5 advantage over Oklahoma. Oklahoma, despite a recently successful history in this matchup, couldn’t uphold their form, leaving coach Brent Venables reflecting on missed opportunities in their defensive stratagem.

As the game unfolded, Ewers exhibited deft decision-making, connecting with Gunnar Helm for a neat 7-yard touchdown early in the second quarter, calming nerves after a rare instance of trailing. Noteworthy was the defense’s work, stymying Oklahoma freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., who made 120 yards on 16 of 24 passes, evidently straining under pressure with 27 rushing yards gained over 20 runs alongside five sacks.

Possessing the Golden Hat trophy serves as a testament to the Longhorn’s strategy and execution, allowing head coach Steve Sarkisian to engage them further for upcoming challenges while asserting, “…The journey is far from over. We got more work to do.” With Texas eyeing an encounter against No. 5 Georgia next, their victory sets a prolific stage for what’s to come, indicative of their roaring readiness.

On Oklahoma’s side, grappling with a string of injuries notably through their receiving lineup, including the absence of five key players, amplified the freshman quarterback’s burden. Venturing home after a lengthy stretch away, the Sooners need swift recalibration to reverse their fortunes, housing South Carolina in an endeavor to punctuate their season with redemption.