Greg McElroy, a college football analyst, has labeled the Texas Longhorns as the most dramatic team in the sport following their narrow 34-31 victory over Vanderbilt. This thrilling game showcased quarterback Arch Manning leading his team to victory in Austin, but McElroy noted that the excitement never seems to fade for Texas.
During a recent episode of ESPN”s “Always College Football,” McElroy emphasized Texas” knack for drama as they nearly wasted a commanding 24-point lead against Vanderbilt. The Longhorns were ahead 34-10 early in the fourth quarter, but the Commodores surged back with three consecutive touchdowns, tightening the score to 34-31. Manning delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 328 yards and three touchdowns, including a remarkable 75-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Wingo on the very first play of the game.
McElroy expressed his disbelief at the dramatic turn of events, saying, “Texas can”t help themselves. They just love the drama. This is the most dramatic team. It”s unbelievable.” He provided a detailed analysis of the game, explaining how Texas dominated the first three quarters before nearly collapsing in the closing moments. “We”re sitting there calling this game. It”s 34-10. You start thinking big picture, talking about where these teams go from here,” McElroy recounted. “Then suddenly Vanderbilt”s offense comes alive. Twenty-one unanswered points. It was insane.”
The Vanderbilt quarterback, Diego Pavia, had a standout performance as well, throwing for 365 yards and accounting for four total touchdowns, fueling the Commodores” comeback effort in the final quarter. McElroy pointed out the defensive struggles of Texas, noting that the team allowed 108 passing yards on the final drive, calling it one of the wildest finishes he has witnessed all season.
Despite the tension late in the game, McElroy praised Manning”s composure and the protection he received from the offensive line. “Arch Manning is beginning to reach the preseason hype just a little bit,” he remarked. “They”re protecting him finally. He had plenty of time.” Following the game, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for consistency over a full game. “You”ve got to play 60 minutes in this conference,” he stated. “I wish we would have finished a little better, but that”s OK. It gives me something to rip their butts about Monday.”
In closing, McElroy described Texas as “a potential spoiler” in the playoff race, pointing out that their only losses came against strong opponents, namely Ohio State and Florida. “This team might be playing its best football here at the end of the year,” he added. The Longhorns now have a bye week before they face Georgia in Athens on Saturday, November 15.
