Texas loses to Florida, leaves AP Top 25 as coaching scrutiny grows

Texas suffered a 29-21 defeat to Florida on Saturday at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, a loss that cost the Longhorns a spot in the AP Top 25 and intensified scrutiny of the program’s offense and coaching. Florida quarterback DJ Lagway completed a strong outing, throwing for 298 yards and two touchdowns with one interception, while Texas signal-caller Arch Manning finished 16 of 29 for 263 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions and was sacked six times.

The Gators, coming off a rocky start to the season, produced their first FBS victory since the opener and answered questions about their offense by consistently pressuring Texas. Florida’s rushing attack was limited, but the passing game, including two touchdowns to freshman receiver Dallas Wilson, supplied enough production to overcome a late Texas push. A defensive penalty in the final minute gave Texas a late opportunity, but Manning was sacked twice and an incomplete deep pass ended the comeback bid.

The loss highlighted ongoing problems for Texas up front. The Longhorns’ rebuilt offensive line has struggled to protect Manning since losing four starters in the offseason, and the running game was nearly...