Two programs with contrasting momentum meet Saturday in Austin. No. 9 Vanderbilt has quietly become one of college football’s most efficient and balanced teams, while No. 20 Texas is fighting to regain its rhythm amid injuries and uneven play. Both enter at 3-1 in conference play, but Vanderbilt’s confidence and execution make this a challenging matchup for the Longhorns.
The Commodores have outscored opponents 187-120 over their last five games, while Texas holds a 160-83 edge during that span. Vanderbilt’s offense, however, appears to be peaking just as the Longhorns’ has begun to stall.
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2025 season. The dual-threat leader has thrown for 1,698 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for 458 yards and five more scores. His ability to extend plays has elevated Vanderbilt’s attack to top-15 efficiency nationally.
The Commodores average 38.4 points per game and rank among the nation’s most effective passing units despite attempting the fewest passes among Power Four programs. Top receiver Eli Stowers provides reliability in the slot, while defenders Miles Capers and CJ Heard headline a defense that thrives in hostile environments.
As for Texas, quarterback Arch Manning continues to be the story in Austin. The Longhorns' signal-caller has totaled 1,795 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, but a retooled offensive line has created protection issues. Not to mention, Manning still dealing with a concussion after last week's overtime win over Mississippi State.
Texas lost four starters from last year’s unit, and the growing pains have been evident. Running back Quinten Wisner and receiver Ryan Wingo offer balance and explosiveness, though the offense has struggled with consistency.
Defensively, Colton Simmons and Anthony Hill Jr. Remain impact players, but Texas has shown vulnerability against mobile quarterbacks, which is a concern with Pavia’s scrambling ability.
Texas’ pass rush against Pavia’s mobility could decide the game. Vanderbilt’s offense relies on tempo and improvisation, while Texas needs discipline to contain plays outside the pocket.
If Vanderbilt protects Pavia and maintains its offensive rhythm, the Commodores have the tools to push Texas deep into the fourth quarter. For the Longhorns, rediscovering balance and protecting Manning will be crucial to defending home turf.
No. 20 Texas welcomes No. 9 Vanderbilt to Austin on Saturday (Noon ET, ABC).
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