This stat spells bad news for Texas' Arch Manning vs. Oklahoma in Red River Rivarly

Jeff Hauser

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This stat spells bad news for Texas' Arch Manning vs. Oklahoma in Red River Rivarly image

As Texas and Oklahoma meet in Dallas for Saturday's Red River Rivalry game, there are two statistics that say a lot about how this showdown might unfold. However, it's bad news for Longhorns QB Arch Manning and will determine whether Texas finds redemption or Oklahoma stays unbeaten.

According to ESPN Insights, Oklahoma leads the FBS in sack rate (15%) and ranks third in pressure rate (53%). Those numbers explain why the Sooners’ defense has been among the nation’s most disruptive units through five games. Brent Venables' front seven has excelled at collapsing pockets and forcing hurried throws, which has helped Oklahoma rise to No. 6 in the country. 

For Texas, that’s a serious concern.

The Longhorns’ offensive line surrendered six sacks in last week’s 27-17 loss to Florida, allowing relentless pressure that derailed multiple drives. Manning was the preseason Heisman favorite but has struggled when facing pressure. He has completed just 46% of his passes with a 33 Total QBR when pressured.

The overall risk-reward style hasn’t translated into consistent success.

Oklahoma’s 15 percent sack rate and Manning’s 46 percent completion rate under pressure may reveal everything about how Saturday unfolds. If the Sooners’ defense maintains its pace, it could become a long afternoon for Texas at the Cotton Bowl.

After a summer of hype and two early losses, Steve Sarkisian’s Longhorns enter the rivalry game in desperation mode. To stay alive in the College Football Playoff hunt, Texas must find a way to protect Manning or risk another Red River collapse.

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Editorial Team