Starkville MS, October 26, 2025
News Summary
In a nail-biting game in Starkville, Mississippi, the Texas Longhorns pulled off a stunning comeback against the Mississippi State Bulldogs, winning 45-38 in overtime. Trailing by 17 points in the fourth quarter, Texas scored 24 unanswered points to level the game. The win improves Texas’ record to 6-2 and continues Mississippi State’s SEC losing streak at 16 games. Backup quarterback Matthew Caldwell threw the game-winning touchdown, while Ethan Burke’s strip sack sealed the victory for the Longhorns.
Texas Longhorns Stage Dramatic Comeback to Defeat Mississippi State 45-38 in Overtime
A thrilling game took place in Starkville, Mississippi, where the Texas Longhorns managed to overcome a significant fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Mississippi State Bulldogs 45-38 in overtime. This victory boosted the Longhorns’ record to 6-2, improving their Southeastern Conference (SEC) record to 3-1, while the Bulldogs fell to 4-4, maintaining an SEC losing streak now reaching 16 games at 0-4.
The Bulldogs were in control of the game and held a commanding 38-21 lead with just 12:29 left in the fourth quarter. However, Texas executed a remarkable comeback, scoring 24 points in the final frame to tie the game. The pivotal moment came when Ryan Niblett returned a punt for a 79-yard touchdown, leveling the score and forcing overtime.
In overtime, Texas’ backup quarterback, Matthew Caldwell, who stepped in after starter Arch Manning exited due to concussion protocols, threw the game-winning touchdown pass to Emmett Mosley IV. While the Longhorns’ offense shined, the crucial defensive play came from Ethan Burke, who executed a fourth-down strip sack on Mississippi State’s final drive to seal the victory.
Game Dynamics
The game started inauspiciously for Mississippi State, who struggled with a flat offense characterized by two three-and-out drives and a missed field goal. They managed to bounce back, scoring 24 points by halftime, concluding with a 62-yard touchdown drive topped off by a touchdown pass from Blake Shapen to Brenen Thompson.
Throughout the match, both teams dealt with injuries, including Texas missing All-American safety Michael Taaffe and losing offensive guard DJ Campbell during play. Despite this, the Longhorns managed to remain competitive.
Coaching Insights and Future Matches
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, facing speculation regarding interest from NFL teams, successfully guided his squad to this impressive comeback victory. The Longhorns will next face Arkansas on the upcoming Saturday as they aim to maintain their winning momentum.
This defeat for Mississippi State represents a missed opportunity to break their two-year conference game winless streak under coach Jeff Lebby.
Statistical Highlights
- Texas Longhorns: 6-2 overall, 3-1 SEC
- Mississippi State Bulldogs: 4-4 overall, 0-4 SEC
- Arch Manning: 346 passing yards, 3 TDs, 1 rushing TD
- Matthew Caldwell: Scored winning touchdown in overtime
- Bullldogs led 38-21 with 12:29 in 4th quarter
- Ryan Niblett: 79-yard punt return touchdown
Previous Performances
Texas scored an explosive touchdown on their opening drive, highlighted by a 60-yard play facilitated by receiver Ryan Wingo. For Mississippi State, this game adds to their ongoing struggles in SEC play, marking a tough road ahead for the Bulldogs as they search for their first conference win.
FAQ
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was Texas Longhorns 45, Mississippi State Bulldogs 38 in overtime.
How did Mississippi State perform in the SEC?
Mississippi State has extended their SEC losing streak to 16 games, now holding a record of 4-4 overall and 0-4 in SEC play.
What was a key moment in the fourth quarter?
A significant moment in the fourth quarter was when Ryan Niblett returned a punt for a 79-yard touchdown with under two minutes remaining, tying the game.
What injury affected Texas during the game?
Texas played without All-American safety Michael Taaffe and lost offensive guard DJ Campbell during the game.
What is next for the Longhorns?
The Longhorns will face Arkansas next Saturday as they look to maintain their momentum after this victory.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Texas Longhorns | Mississippi State Bulldogs |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 45 | 38 |
| Record After Game | 6-2 (3-1 SEC) | 4-4 (0-4 SEC) |
| Notable Player | Arch Manning (346 yards, 3 TDs, 1 rushing TD) | Blake Shapen (TD pass to Brenen Thompson) |
| Touchdown Types | Passing, Rushing, Punt Return | Passing |
| Key Play | Overtime Winning Touchdown Pass | Fourth-Down Missed Opportunity |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florida Gators Edge Mississippi State Bulldogs in Homecoming Win
Mississippi State Prepares for Key Matchup Against Texas Longhorns
Starkville Softball Series Rescheduled Due to Weather
Pico Kohn Emerges as a Rising Star in College Baseball
Tennessee Basketball Struggles After Close Defeat
Additional Resources
- Statesman: Texas Football Insights
- 247Sports: Game Thread and Live Updates
- Fox News: Arch Manning Injury Report
- ESPN: Game Recap
- CBS Sports: Arch Manning Injury Details
- Wikipedia: Texas Longhorns Football
- Google Search: Texas Longhorns Football
- Google Scholar: Texas Longhorns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Longhorns Football
- Google News: Texas Longhorns
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
