Smothers Powers Texas Comeback Over Ohio State 24-23

A Dramatic Finish at DKR

Hollywood Smothers provided the decisive spark as the Texas Longhorns rallied from a significant deficit to defeat the visiting Ohio State Buckeyes, 24-23. The win occurred on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, drawing an attendance of 105,044 spectators.

The Scoring Breakdown

Ohio State established early control, building a commanding 20-3 lead by the end of the second quarter. The Buckeyes’ offense struck first with a Connor Hawkins 26-yard field goal in the opening period, followed by an 8-yard run by Ja'Kobi Jackson that extended the advantage to 10-0.

Texas struggled to generate momentum early. Gianni Spetic kicked a 37-yard field goal in the second quarter to put Texas on the board at 10-3. However, Ohio State responded immediately with another Hawkins field goal and a 19-yard touchdown pass from Julian Sayin to Jeremiah Smith, pushing the lead to 20-3.

Connor Hawkins added a 48-yard field goal in the third period, making the score 23-3 heading into the final frame.

The Fourth-Quarter Surge

The Longhorns’ comeback began with renewed energy in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Arch Manning connected with Ryan Wingo on a 3-yard pass, and Spetic’s kick narrowed the gap to 23-10. Smothers then broke through for a 1-yard rushing touchdown, bringing Texas within six points at 23-17.

The decisive moment came later in the period when Smothers scored again on a 1-yard run, with Spetic converting the extra point to give Texas a 24-23 lead. Ohio State was unable to respond, and the Longhorns held on for the victory.

Statistical Leaders

Arch Manning completed 23 of 37 passes for 195 yards and one touchdown, though he also threw one interception. He relied heavily on Smothers, who carried the ball 21 times for 74 yards and both of his fourth-quarter touchdowns. Emmett Mosley V contributed five receptions for 65 yards.

For Ohio State, Julian Sayin passed for 278 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Jeremiah Smith led all receivers with eight catches for 164 yards and the earlier touchdown. Bo Jackson provided ground support with 19 carries for 74 yards.

With this result, Texas improves to 2-0 on the season, while Ohio State falls to 1-1.

Sources

ESPN