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Texas Longhorns vs UTEP Miners Picks and Predictions
The Texas Longhorns are still finding their rhythm, but they’ll look to take another step forward when they host the UTEP Miners on Saturday in Austin. Texas bounced back from its opening loss to Ohio State with a convincing 38-7 win over San Jose State, while UTEP comes in off a dominant victory over UT Martin.
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Texas: Growth Behind Arch Manning
Arch Manning responded to early pressure with a big performance, throwing for 295 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for another score against San Jose State. His chemistry with Parker Livingstone, who posted 128 yards and two touchdowns, was the offensive highlight. Running back CJ Baxter added 64 yards, while linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. forced two turnovers in a stifling defensive showing.
Coach Steve Sarkisian admitted the Longhorns are still working through growing pains, both on the field and in the coaching staff’s adjustments, but incremental progress is the goal as SEC play approaches.
Texas Snapshot
| Category | Stat | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 1-1 | No. 7 in AP Poll |
| QB Arch Manning | 295 pass yds, 4 TD, 1 rush TD | Bounce-back game |
| Top WR | Parker Livingstone, 128 yds, 2 TD | Explosive target |
| Defensive Star | Anthony Hill Jr. | 2 forced fumbles |
UTEP: Offense Explodes in Win
The Miners rolled past UT Martin 42-17, delivering their largest margin of victory since 2022. Quarterback Malachi Nelson threw for 278 yards and four touchdowns while adding a rushing score in UTEP’s fast-paced offense. Running back Hahsaun Wilson added a program-record 94-yard touchdown run, finishing with 117 yards.
Defensively, UTEP held UT Martin to just 76 rushing yards on 40 carries, showcasing their physicality at the line of scrimmage. Coach Scotty Walden praised his team’s complete performance but stressed the need for continued improvement.
UTEP Snapshot
| Category | Stat | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 1-1 | Coming off 42-17 win |
| QB Malachi Nelson | 278 pass yds, 4 TD, 1 rush TD | Transfer impact |
| RB Hahsaun Wilson | 117 yds, 94-yd TD run | Longest play in program history |
| Rush Defense | 76 yds allowed on 40 carries | Best since 1971 |
Matchups That Matter
Manning’s ability to handle UTEP’s defensive pressure will be key, especially after Texas showed inconsistency in Week 1 against Ohio State. The Longhorns’ defense, anchored by Anthony Hill Jr., will aim to limit Nelson’s dual-threat ability and contain Wilson’s explosiveness in the run game. If Texas wins the battle in the trenches, the Miners’ offense could struggle to replicate last week’s fireworks.
Series History and Context
Texas has dominated this matchup, winning all six meetings against UTEP. The last meeting came in 2020, when the Longhorns crushed the Miners 59-3 behind a 45-point first half. While UTEP comes in with momentum, history suggests Texas has the upper hand.
Picks and Predictions
The Longhorns are heavy favorites, and my projection calls for Texas to win comfortably. Manning’s continued development and the defense’s ability to create turnovers should keep the home team in full control. UTEP has offensive weapons in Nelson and Wilson, but the gap in depth and talent favors Texas.
With SEC play looming, Texas will aim to sharpen execution while extending its winning streak against the Miners. Bettors can check the latest college football odds and expert NCAAF picks before placing wagers, and for betting strategies, visit the Expert NFL Betting Guide.
