Texas Longhorns Stock Watch After Week 6: Who's Up & Who's Down?

Texas' 29-21 loss in Gainesville exposed major offensive-line breakdowns and a slip in run defense ahead of the Red River Rivalry. Bettors may avoid Texas against the spread, favor Oklahoma moneyline or the under on totals; Arch Manning passing props could be volatile under heavy pressure, so consider lower passing yards markets.

Texas Stumbles in Gainesville, Momentum Fades Before Red River Rivalry

The Longhorns failed to carry momentum from their earlier blowout into their SEC road test, falling 29-21 to Florida in a game that left Texas 3-2 and unranked in the AP Poll for the first time since 2022. What had looked like a team finding its rhythm instead showed clear cracks on both sides of the ball, raising red flags ahead of the marquee matchup with No. 6 Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl.

Arch Manning: Rising Stock Despite Turnovers

Arch Manning produced a mixed but promising performance in his first SEC road start. He completed 16 of 29 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns while battling heavy pressure and taking hits throughout the night. Despite two costly fourth-quarter interceptions that halted late momentum, Manning repeatedly stood in the pocket and attempted a comeback, suggesting growth and resilience under duress.

Key QB Takeaways

Manning’s counting stats look encouraging, but his decision-making in high-leverage moments needs polishing. His ability to absorb pressure and still move the offense will be pivotal against Oklahoma’s front; bettors should expect volatility in his passing totals and turnovers.

Offensive Line and Run Game Trending Down

Texas’ offensive line was overwhelmed in Gainesville, surrendering more than 30 quarterback pressures, double-digit quarterback hits, and four sacks. The unit allowed seven tackles for loss and stifled the ground game — the Longhorns gained just 52 rushing yards, with Manning the leading rusher at 37 yards, largely on scrambles.

What the O-Line Issues Mean

Protection breakdowns not only limit the passing game but also kill the run scheme. If the offensive line can’t rebound quickly, Texas will struggle to sustain drives and keep its defense rested against a powerful Oklahoma offense.

Defense Looks Vulnerable After Strong Start

Texas’ defense, previously one of the nation’s more reliable units, looked uncharacteristically porous against Florida’s ground attack. After allowing just 61 rushing yards total across the first four games, the Longhorns conceded 159 rushing yards and averaged north of four yards per carry in Gainesville — more than doubling their season average.

Defensive Concerns to Monitor

The rush defense slipping opens up play-action and tempo opportunities for opponents. Maintaining gap discipline and tackling consistency will be crucial in slowing down Oklahoma’s multifaceted offense.

Notes Ahead of the Red River Rivalry

With a short turnaround to the Cotton Bowl, Texas must address protection, run-blocking and situational quarterback play. Expect focus on offensive-line adjustments and defensive scheme tweaks this week. For fans and bettors alike, the matchup now looks more precarious for the Longhorns than before the Florida loss, making Oklahoma a more attractive option in key markets.

Taking a look at which Texas Longhorns stocks are rising or falling after their loss to the Florida Gators.

Si