### Texas Longhorns Stage Dramatic Comeback to Defeat Mississippi State in Overtime The No. 22 Texas Longhorns achieved a remarkable victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs, winning 45-38 in overtime after overcoming a significant 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter. This thrilling game showcased Texas's resilience, particularly after starting quarterback Arch Manning was sidelined due to injury. Backup quarterback Matthew Caldwell stepped in to lead the team to a stunning comeback, highlighted by a crucial touchdown pass in overtime. The Longhorns' victory not only improved their record to 6-2 but also kept their hopes alive for a spot in the College Football Playoff [https://apnews.com/article/texas-mississippi-state-score-5f87e7eafaceb1ec8f56978770c6052f][https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/texas-longhorns-college-football-playoff-hopes-still-alive-after-epic-comeback-win]. ### Breakdown of the Game's Key Moments and Performances 1. **Game Overview**: - Texas trailed 31-14 at the end of the third quarter but rallied to score 24 unanswered points. - The Longhorns' comeback included two touchdowns and a field goal in the fourth quarter, culminating in an overtime touchdown pass from Caldwell to Emmett Mosley [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/no_22_texas_scores_24_unanswered_points_defeats_mississippi_state_45_38_in_overtime/s1_17440_42965972]. 2. **Key Players**: - **Arch Manning**: Completed 29 of 46 passes for 346 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception before leaving the game due to injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/no_22_texas_scores_24_unanswered_in_comeback_win_over_mississippi_state/s1_17047_42959309]. - **Matthew Caldwell**: Stepped in during overtime, throwing the decisive touchdown pass [https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/just-how-improbable-was-the-texas-longhorns-comeback-win-vs-mississippi-state]. - **Blake Shapen (Mississippi State)**: Threw for 381 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Bulldogs' offense [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/no_22_texas_scores_24_unanswered_points_defeats_mississippi_state_45_38_in_overtime/s1_17440_42965972]. 3. **Turning Points**: - Ryan Niblett's 79-yard punt return tied the game at 38-38 with just 1:47 left in regulation [https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/texas-longhorns-pull-off-miracle-overtime-win-vs-mississippi-state]. - Texas's defense made crucial stops in the fourth quarter and overtime, allowing the offense to capitalize on the momentum [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/3_takeaways_from_texas_longhorns_dramatic_comeback_win_vs_mississippi_state/s1_16598_42959451]. ### Statistical Highlights and Performance Metrics - **Final Score**: Texas 45, Mississippi State 38 (OT) - **Texas's Scoring Breakdown**: - 1st Quarter: 7 points - 2nd Quarter: 0 points - 3rd Quarter: 7 points - 4th Quarter: 24 points - Overtime: 7 points - **Mississippi State's Scoring Breakdown**: - 1st Quarter: 7 points - 2nd Quarter: 14 points - 3rd Quarter: 10 points - 4th Quarter: 7 points **Key Player Stats**: - Arch Manning: 29/46, 346 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT - Matthew Caldwell: 1 TD in overtime - Blake Shapen: 26/42, 381 yards, 4 TDs [https://texaslonghorns.com/news/2025/10/26/no-22-18-football-rallies-for-overtime-win-at-mississippi-state-45-38][https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/just-how-improbable-was-the-texas-longhorns-comeback-win-vs-mississippi-state]. ### Conclusion: A Testament to Resilience and Team Spirit The Texas Longhorns' victory over Mississippi State is a testament to their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Despite trailing significantly, they managed to execute a comeback that not only secured a win but also reinforced their position in the competitive landscape of college football. 1. **Resilience**: Overcame a 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter. 2. **Key Performances**: Notable contributions from both starting and backup quarterbacks. 3. **Future Implications**: The win keeps Texas's College Football Playoff hopes alive. This game will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the Longhorns' season, showcasing their determination and skill [https://www.si.com/college/texas/football/texas-longhorns-pull-off-miracle-overtime-win-vs-mississippi-state][https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/no_22_texas_scores_24_unanswered_in_comeback_win_over_mississippi_state/s1_17047_42959309].