The Longhorns survived.
Backup quarterback Shane Buechele replaced an injured Sam Ehlinger on the opening drive of the game and Cameron Dicker missed two critical field goals, but the Longhorns managed to hang on and beat Baylor for their sixth straight win. Texas failed to score points in the second half after taking a 23-10 lead into the locker room at halftime. Baylor quarterback Charlie Brewer threw a touchdown pass in the third quarter to bring the Bears within 6 points of the Longhorns. Baylor held the last drive of the game, starting at their own 3 yard line, and with :06 left had marched to the Texas 17-yard line. With :01 left, Brewer’s final pass sailed out of the end zone incomplete, and the Longhorns won their 4th straight game over the Bears.
Texas running back Keaontay Ingram rushed for 110 yards on 19 carries, leading all players in rushing. Buechele completed 20/34 passes for 184 yards and a touchdown, throwing one interception — the first for the team since the 4th quarter of the Maryland game. Collin Johnson had a big day in the air, catching 11 passes for 132 yards and one touchdown.
Head coach Tom Herman praised his backup quarterback, despite the fact he hasn’t seen the field since the Longhorns’ bowl game against Missouri last season.
“Shane Buechele is the most engaged; he’s the most prepared; he’s the most positive coaching backup quarterback I’ve ever been around in my life and I’ve been around some really good ones. Really, really good ones.
Ehlinger’s injury was classified as an AC sprain on his throwing shoulder, and he will have an MRI to make sure that there is no ligament damage. Herman is hopeful that rest, treatment, and the upcoming bye week will aid in Ehlinger’s recovery, allowing him to be available for Oklahoma State in two weeks.
The Texas defense held Baylor to 88 yards rushing and 240 yards passing. Baylor quarterback Charlie Brewer finished 20/39 for 240 yards and one touchdown and one interception. Denzel Mims led the Bears in receiving with 3 catches for 80 yards and a touchdown.
The Longhorns improve to 6-1 overall with the win and 4-0 in the Big 12 Conference.
