Texas Beats Missouri Amid Disputed Fumble Ruling

Texas came away with a 34-20 victory over Missouri on November 7, but a disputed ruling involving quarterback Arch Manning became a major talking point in the SEC matchup. The win keeps the No. 7 Longhorns’ playoff hopes alive, while No. 19 Missouri continued to challenge them throughout the game.

In the third quarter, Manning was hit as he attempted a pass. A Missouri defender touched the ball, and it landed well beyond the line of scrimmage. A Texas receiver tried to recover it before a Missouri player could reach it. Officials initially called a fumble, and a replay review upheld that ruling.

The decision drew criticism from the broadcast crew and viewers. Two plays later, Manning threw a touchdown pass that brought Texas level at 20-20. The game included other calls that drew objections from Missouri supporters, though the account of the game noted that some of those decisions were reasonable.

Texas eventually secured the win despite continuing to show problems with penalties and its rushing attack, which was playing without Hollywood Smothers. Coach Steve Sarkisian’s team has had difficulty putting together a mistake-free performance, even as it has found ways to win during a key stretch of the season.

The result could help Texas with the playoff selection committee if the team loses another game. The Longhorns’ next test is against LSU in Baton Rouge.