David Pollack Predicts Winner of Texas-Vanderbilt

"I think last week being able to get it going, gives you more confidence," Pollack said. "They were averaging 13 first downs a game in the three games before that. 22 (last week). Like, moving the football, running the football, Ryan Wingo is here... I'm going to go Vandy because of the injuries. But if Arch plays... and plays well, I think Texas will win."

Manning was injured during Texas' overtime comeback win against the Mississippi State Bulldogs, which ended with a score of 45-38 last weekend. He is listed as questionable on the latest SEC Availability Report. Although Manning has not had an outstanding season overall, he performed well in the last game, completing 63.6% of his passes for 346 yards, with three touchdowns and one interception.

On the other hand, Vanderbilt boasts one of the most balanced teams in college football. The Commodores rank 25th in total offense, 72nd in passing offense and 25th in rushing offense. Their defense is also solid, ranking 31st in total defense, 71st in passing defense and 18th in rushing defense. Vanderbilt is led by quarterback Diego Pavia, who has thrown for 1,698 yards, 15 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also rushing for 458 yards and scoring five touchdowns.

Manning’s availability remains a major storyline. If he’s unable to go, the Longhorns will turn to Troy transfer Matthew Caldwell. Pavia, on the other hand, has quietly become one of the SEC’s most efficient dual-threat passers, leading an offense that ranks top-25 nationally in both total and rushing yards. Saturday’s result could define whether Vanderbilt remains a playoff dark horse, or Texas salvages what’s left of its season.