Florida rallies past No. 7 Texas, 27–24, in Jones’ first start

Florida rallied from a 17–3 deficit to defeat No. 7 Texas 27–24 on Saturday in Austin, with quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. winning his first career start and the Gators forcing a late Arch Manning fumble.

Jones, starting for injured Aaron Philo, completed 22 of 35 passes with two touchdowns to tight end Lacota Dippre and no turnovers, according to Florida’s official game report. The Gators scored 24 consecutive points to turn the two-touchdown deficit into a 27–17 lead.

Jadan Baugh’s fourth-quarter touchdown run gave Florida that 10-point cushion with 6:22 remaining. Texas answered with Manning’s nine-yard touchdown pass to Cam Coleman and later regained possession with a chance to tie or take the lead.

Myles Graham then sacked Manning and forced a fumble that Kanye Clark recovered with 1:58 left. Jones converted a third down on the ensuing possession, allowing Florida to finish the game with the ball.

The Gators recorded five sacks and held Texas to 272 total yards. Manning completed 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards and one touchdown, Texas reported. Ryan Niblett had earlier scored on a punt return during the Longhorns’ fast start.

Florida improved to 5–2 overall and 3–2 in the SEC. Texas fell to 4–2 and 1–2.