Arch Manning, Texas take over Rocky Top — despite Longhorns’ late collapse

For the first time this season, Arch Manning and Texas left Austin as the nation's top-ranked team and entered one of college football's most hostile environments seeking a statement win in their SEC opener.

Despite an offense that struggled to find consistency, the Longhorns got the job done.

Powered by a dominant defensive effort, including five sacks from Colin Simmons, and two rushing touchdowns from Raleek Brown, Texas grinded out a 20-17 victory over No. 13 Tennessee on Saturday at Neyland Stadium, giving Manning a signature road win in the same venue where his uncle, Peyton Manning, became a Volunteers legend.

The victory was Manning's third in a true road start as Texas' quarterback, improving his career record in such games to 3-3. It marked Texas’ first-ever win at Neyland Stadium against Tennessee, with all previous meetings in the all-time series coming at the Cotton Bowl.

Manning’s inconsistent day on offense didn’t start out that way. In fact, the 6-foot-4 quarterback and the Longhorns offense started out scorching hot, as he completed each of his first seven passes for 120 yards. The Longhorns earned points on two of their first three drives.

Following that, he finished 7-of-12 passing for 81…

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