LOGIN

Late-Game Heroics: Dillon Gabriel Throws Decisive Touchdown as No. 12 Oklahoma Triumphs Over No. 3 Texas in Red River Showdown

by Gabriel Martinez
10 comments
Red River Showdown

In the waning moments of his inaugural appearance in the Red River Showdown, Dillon Gabriel recognized the urgent necessity of avoiding a sack as defensive pressure mounted. This was the kind of high-stakes contest he had enrolled at Oklahoma to participate in.

Suddenly, he spotted Nic Anderson open in the end zone’s rear.

“The subsequent events speak for themselves,” commented Gabriel.

Executing what seemed like a jump step, Gabriel connected with Anderson for a 3-yard touchdown pass, leaving only 15 seconds on the clock. This clinched a 34-30 victory for the 12th-ranked Oklahoma Sooners against the No. 3 Texas Longhorns on Saturday. This was their final showdown at the State Fair of Texas as Big 12 members, ahead of their transition to the Southeastern Conference.

“We managed to maintain composure amidst the pandemonium, something one dreams of accomplishing since childhood,” said Gabriel.

The SEC commissioner was present to witness the Sooners (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) and Longhorns engage in a classic contest, which surely pleased Greg Sankey about his impending new members. Absent was the Big 12 commissioner.

Gabriel completed an impressive 23 of 38 pass attempts, throwing for 285 yards. He also rushed 14 times, accumulating 113 yards and scoring one touchdown. The left-handed quarterback, originally from Hawaii, who typically dons a lei during post-game celebrations, had transferred from UCF prior to the last season. He was unavailable for the Sooners’ 49-0 defeat to Texas last October due to a concussion suffered the week before.

“Dillon is the epitome of composure in the quarterback role,” said Oklahoma coach Brent Venables. “His fearless approach on the field knows no bounds. His confidence is paralleled by none on the team at the moment.”

Conversely, the Longhorns (5-1, 2-1) had overturned a 10-point shortfall and gained a 30-27 lead following Bert Auburn’s third field goal—a 45-yard effort—with just 1:17 remaining. However, Oklahoma countered with a 75-yard drive in five plays, featuring Gabriel’s 11 and 28-yard passes to senior receiver Drake Stoops, the son of former Oklahoma coach.

“We fell short of displaying our optimal performance today. Our failure to contain their quarterback had significant consequences, particularly in the latter half,” acknowledged Texas coach Steve Sarkisian. “However, the silver lining is the awareness that we possess the capability to improve upon today’s showing, and we intend to do so.”

Both teams might face each other once again if they qualify for the Big 12 championship game scheduled for December 2.

Quinn Ewers of Texas accounted for all three team turnovers, throwing two interceptions and losing a fumble. Nonetheless, he completed 31 of 37 passes, amassing 346 yards. His final throw was deflected near the goal line, negating any last-second heroics as time ran out.

“We rebounded well, despite a less than ideal start marked by early interceptions,” said Ewers.

Jonathon Brooks, prevented from scoring in three consecutive plays from the 1-yard line on a prior drive, equalized the game at 27-27 with a 29-yard touchdown run, clocking in with 6:10 left. Brooks recorded his fourth straight game with more than 100 yards rushing.

In conclusion, this game was SEC commissioner Sankey’s inaugural experience of one of college football’s most legendary rivalries. The spectacle was also graced by the presence of NFL player Mayfield and actor Matthew McConaughey, an ardent Texas supporter.

For Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman, this game proved to be a more gratifying memory compared to last year’s outcome. “The veterans among us still recall that day. We are constantly reminded of it. Every additional effort in training is dedicated to games of this magnitude,” said Stutsman.

The Takeaway

Oklahoma: Gabriel’s performance has reaffirmed beliefs that had he been available for last year’s contest, the outcome might have been strikingly different. Instead, that game became Oklahoma’s most lopsided loss ever, marking a 6-7 season in Venables’ first year. The Sooners appear to be on track for a College Football Playoff berth.

Texas: The Longhorns had been gaining traction as potential No. 1 contenders, rivaling two-time defending national champion Georgia. That question has been put to rest for now, and a return to the top of the AP poll seems unlikely until further performances warrant such consideration.

Poll Implications

In the forthcoming AP Top 25, Texas is expected to descend in the rankings, while Oklahoma is likely to ascend, possibly even surpassing the Longhorns. Both, however, should remain within the top 10.

Upcoming Matches

Oklahoma will enjoy a bye week before hosting Big 12 newcomer UCF on October 21. Texas will also take a break next weekend, resuming action in Houston on the same date. It will be their first encounter since 2002, dating back to their Southwest Conference days.

Source: Associated Press college football and AP Top 25 college football poll

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Red River Showdown

What was the final score of the Red River Showdown between Oklahoma and Texas?

The final score was 34-30 in favor of the Oklahoma Sooners.

Who was the key player in the Oklahoma Sooners’ victory?

Quarterback Dillon Gabriel was the key player, throwing a decisive 3-yard touchdown pass with just 15 seconds left on the clock.

What was the significance of this game for both teams?

This was the final Red River Showdown for both teams as members of the Big 12 Conference, as they are set to transition to the Southeastern Conference. The game also had implications for the AP Top 25 rankings.

Were there any notable attendees at the game?

Yes, the SEC commissioner Greg Sankey was in attendance, but the Big 12 commissioner was notably absent. NFL player Mayfield and actor Matthew McConaughey were also present.

What were the respective records of Oklahoma and Texas after the game?

After the win, Oklahoma remained unbeaten with a 6-0 record, 3-0 in Big 12 play. Texas moved to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the Big 12.

Who were the standout players from both teams?

Dillon Gabriel from Oklahoma completed 23 of 38 passes for 285 yards and ran 14 times for 113 yards and a score. Quinn Ewers of Texas completed 31 of 37 passes for 346 yards but had three turnovers.

What does this win mean for Oklahoma’s College Football Playoff chances?

The win significantly boosts Oklahoma’s chances of making it to the College Football Playoff, especially given their unbeaten record and the victory over a highly-ranked opponent.

What are the next matches for both teams?

Oklahoma has an open date before hosting Big 12 newcomer UCF on October 21. Texas will also be off the next weekend and will play against Houston on October 21.

Will both teams remain in the top 10 of the AP Top 25 rankings?

While the new poll has not been released, it is likely that Oklahoma will move up and possibly surpass Texas. However, both teams are expected to remain within the top 10.

Could there be a rematch between these teams later this season?

Yes, a rematch is possible if both teams qualify for the Big 12 championship game, which is scheduled for December 2.

More about Red River Showdown

You may also like

10 comments

LonghornFan21 October 8, 2023 - 8:40 am

ugh, can’t believe we lost in the final 15 seconds. But gotta give it to Gabriel, he played a helluva game. We’ll get ’em next time.

Reply
SamanthaQ October 8, 2023 - 9:44 am

I was there, and the energy was insane. Even the SEC commissioner was in the house. This rivalry’s gonna be even crazier in the SEC.

Reply
Jay_the_Analyst October 8, 2023 - 2:48 pm

Gabriel’s stats were off the charts. 285 yards passing and 113 yards rushing. That’s balanced offense for ya. The Sooners are lookin dangerous this year.

Reply
EconWatcher October 8, 2023 - 3:34 pm

Interesting to note the absence of the Big 12 commissioner. With the teams moving to the SEC, I wonder what the financial implications are gonna be.

Reply
FrankTheTank October 8, 2023 - 4:01 pm

Quinn Ewers had a good game too, minus the turnovers. Those mistakes cost us big time. Still, he threw for 346 yards. Not too shabby.

Reply
Sandy_in_TX October 8, 2023 - 7:25 pm

I saw McConaughey at the game! But even he couldn’t bring us the luck we needed. Oh well, there’s always next year.

Reply
SoonersRule October 8, 2023 - 10:56 pm

Yesss! That’s what I’m talking about. Gabriel is a beast. This win gotta put us in serious contention for the playoffs.

Reply
MikeJ82 October 9, 2023 - 12:10 am

Wow, what a game! Gabriel really stepped up in those final seconds. It’s clutch moments like these that make college football so great.

Reply
TinaSports October 9, 2023 - 2:30 am

So much drama! Loved it. And the stakes were high with both teams unbeaten. This is what college football is all about.

Reply
GridironGuru October 9, 2023 - 3:09 am

This is the kinda game that defines a season. Both teams showed they’re top tier, but Oklahoma edged it out. Can’t wait to see the new AP Top 25.

Reply

Leave a Comment

BNB – Big Big News is a news portal that offers the latest news from around the world. BNB – Big Big News focuses on providing readers with the most up-to-date information from the U.S. and abroad, covering a wide range of topics, including politics, sports, entertainment, business, health, and more.

Editors' Picks

Latest News