Texas defense, Tennessee offensive line lead winners, losers from SEC showdown

The battle of the UTs went to the younger institution, with Steve Sarkisian’s No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns scoring on the game’s opening possession and leading the rest of the way.

Final score: Texas 20, Tennessee 17.

As the Horns vanquished their SEC road demons, they also showed capable of winning with more marginal quarterback play from Arch Manning and absolutely elite defensive work.

Despite a sold-out Neyland Stadium crowd of 101,915 that packed into the venue so early that beer stands were dried out by the second quarter, Tennessee faltered with its freshman quarterback showing flashes of brilliance but too much inexperience behind a woefully underperforming offensive line.

Tennessee’s defense kept the home team within striking distance, and Brandon’s talent lends optimism for the future.

But the Horns now own a home win against then-No. 1 Ohio State and this roadie against previously unbeaten, No. 13 Tennessee.

In his Texas two-step return as Longhorns defensive coordinator, Muschamp’s defensive unit – not Sarkisian’s alleged offensive mastery – has proved decisive in the 4-0 start to the 2026 season.

Muschamp’s ferocious, attacking defense thwarted Tennessee repeatedly and stretched its streak of not allowing a touchdown through nine quarters and 14 minutes of…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/