Texas rallies from 20-point deficit to edge Ohio State 24-23

A Dramatic Fourth Quarter

The Texas Longhorns produced a stunning second-half rally on Saturday, September 12, 2026, overcoming a massive deficit to secure a 24-23 victory over the visiting Ohio State Buckeyes at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin. The win improved Texas to 2-0 on the season, while Ohio State fell to 1-1.

Early Dominance by Ohio State

Ohio State controlled the early phases of the contest, building a commanding lead through efficient offense and reliable special teams play. The Buckeyes struck first with a Connor Hawkins 26-yard field goal in the opening period, taking a 3-0 advantage. Ja'Kobi Jackson followed with an 8-yard touchdown run, extended by Hawkins’ kick, pushing the score to 10-0.

Texas responded in the second quarter when Gianni Spetic connected on a 37-yard field goal to make it 10-3. However, Ohio State quickly regained control. Connor Hawkins added another field goal from 30 yards out, making the score 13-3 at halftime.

Julian Sayin then found Jeremiah Smith for a 19-yard touchdown pass, with Hawkins’ kick extending the lead to 20-3. Hawkins capped the half’s scoring with a 48-yard field goal in the third period, bringing the score to 23-3 heading into the final frame.

Manning and Smothers Lead Comeback

The Longhorns began their charge in the fourth quarter behind quarterback Arch Manning, who finished 23-of-37 for 195 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Manning found Ryan Wingo for a 3-yard touchdown pass, with Spetic’s kick cutting the deficit to 23-10.

Hollywood Smothers became the key figure in the comeback, rushing for 74 yards on 21 carries and two touchdowns. Smoters broke through from the one-yard line to make it 23-17. Moments later, he scored again from the same distance, with Spetic’s kick giving Texas a 24-23 lead they would not relinquish.

Key Performances

Smothers’ two rushing touchdowns were critical in overcoming the early deficit. Emmett Mosley V contributed significantly for Texas with five receptions for 65 yards. For Ohio State, Julian Sayin threw for 278 yards on 17-of-32 passing, including one touchdown and one interception to Jeremiah Smith, who hauled in eight catches for 164 yards and a touchdown.

Bo Jackson added ground support for the Buckeyes with 74 rushing yards on 19 carries.

The final score reflected a dramatic shift in momentum after Texas trailed by 20 points entering the fourth quarter. The game drew an attendance of 105,044 at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium.

Sources

ESPN