Texas was pushed to the limit at times by West Virginia, but they still managed to break through in Morgantown for a 42-31 victory in Big 12 play in Week 6. The win might or might not push the Longhorns into the top 10 of the AP Top 25, depending on how far pollsters drop Auburn after their loss at Florida.
It was hardly a perfect performance, as the Longhorns defense gave up 463 yards of offense to a West Virginia team that outgained Sam Ehlinger and crew. But the Texas defense also forced four Austin Kendall interceptions and allowed their offense the clock for more than 36 minutes. Texas also committed 10 penalties to lose 89 yards, but they proved able to overcome their mistakes.
That won’t be the case next week when the Longhorns head to the Cotton Bowl in Dallas for the Red River Shootout against Oklahoma. The winner will have the inside track on a path to the Big 12 title game, while the loser will rue the lost opportunity to compete for a College Football Playoff berth.