No. 11 Texas (5-2, 2-2 Southeastern Conference) plays Mississippi State (4-3, 2-3) on Saturday night. Texas quarterback Arch Manning has moved past two weeks of criticism after losses to Oklahoma and Florida, according to the Associated Press. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said Mississippi State is "the fastest team we've faced."
Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor is out for the rest of the season with a toe injury that will require surgery. Sophomore walk-on Billy Puckett has started in his place, completing 17 of 24 passes for 154 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Coach Jeff Lebby said fifth-year transfer AJ Swann is healthy and will not name a starter until Saturday night.
Texas will be without left tackle Trevor Goosby, who will reportedly miss the rest of the season after knee surgery. Edge rusher Colin Simmons, who has 10 1/2 sacks, missed last week's game with a high ankle sprain and was listed as doubtful. Running back Raleek Brown rushed for 157 yards against Mississippi.