Texas’ season is back on track after consecutive wins, but injuries are thinning the No. 7 Longhorns’ offense. Starting running back Hollywood Smothers is reportedly out for the season with a torn MCL, joining left tackle Trevor Goosby on the sidelines. With several other starters questionable, Arch Manning faces a tougher test as Texas pursues a playoff spot.

By the Numbers
  • Smothers totaled 283 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns in 6 games.
  • Against Mississippi State, Manning threw 3 touchdown passes but was sacked 6 times.
  • Texas has won 2 straight games after back-to-back 27-24 losses.
Yes, But

Texas has shown it can rebound, including a win over then-No. 7 Ole Miss and an upset of then-No. 1 Ohio State. But the injuries are mounting, and the offensive line’s struggles were clear against Mississippi State.

State of Play
  • Smothers and Goosby are out for the season.
  • Colin Simmons, Cam Coleman, Ryan Wingo and Graceson Littleton are questionable for Saturday’s game at Missouri.
  • Texas is ranked No. 7 and faces No. 18 Missouri.
What’s Next

Texas will need Manning and its remaining playmakers to carry more of the load against Missouri. Further injuries or another loss could put the Longhorns’ playoff hopes under greater pressure.

Bottom Line

Texas is winning again, but its margin for error is shrinking: replacing key contributors while protecting Manning will be crucial to keeping the season’s bigger ambitions alive.