Arch Manning and Texas Survive Ole Miss Scare to Keep CFP Hopes Alive

Texas quarterback Arch Manning and the Longhorns escaped with a hard-fought victory over Ole Miss on Saturday, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes intact in a season that has been anything but smooth. Manning, who has faced scrutiny amid the team's ups and downs, delivered when it mattered most, leading a late drive to secure the win and likely preserving his starting role. The Longhorns improved to 8-2 on the season, with the 24-17 win over the Rebels marking a critical step toward a potential CFP berth. Ole Miss, now 7-3, saw its own playoff chances take a major hit despite a gritty defensive effort. The game was a defensive struggle for much of the afternoon, with both offenses struggling to find rhythm until Texas broke through in the fourth quarter. Manning's poise under pressure was the difference, as he connected on key passes to move the chains and set up the go-ahead score. The victory keeps Texas in the hunt for a Big 12 title game appearance and a potential playoff spot, but the team will need to clean up its mistakes if it hopes to compete with the nation's elite. For Manning, the performance was a statement that he can lead this team in high-stakes moments. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on Texas to see if they can finish strong and secure a spot in the playoff. The Longhorns' path won't be easy, but Saturday's gritty win proves they have the resilience to stay in the conversation.