Maraad Watson’s 61-yard score reflects Texas growth

Maraad Watson turned a forced fumble into a 61-yard touchdown during Texas’ 31-3 win over Mississippi State, then gave Steve Sarkisian another sign of his development by celebrating with his teammates.

With Texas leading 10-0 late in the second quarter, Rasheem Biles sacked AJ Swann and knocked the ball loose at the Longhorns’ 34-yard line. The 333-pound Watson recovered it and reached the end zone with 1:13 remaining, helping Texas take a 17-0 lead instead of allowing Mississippi State an opportunity to cut into the margin.

Texas clocked Watson’s return at 8.9 seconds and said it was the longest scoring play by a player weighing at least 325 pounds in school history. Sarkisian said Watson reached 16.1 mph. The coach also praised Watson’s use of his outside arm to carry the ball, leaving the inside arm available for a possible stiff-arm.

Watson told The Associated Press that he began tiring near the 15-yard line but was determined to finish. His preparation included watching highlights of Marshawn Lynch, his favorite running back, before games.

Sarkisian’s larger point centered on what happened after the score. Watson turned toward teammates rather than celebrating alone, and the group joined him for a dance in the end zone. Sarkisian showed the play to the team Monday and called attention to the response around Watson.

The junior transferred from Syracuse in spring 2025 after earning True Freshman All-America recognition from 247Sports. Syracuse said he led freshman defensive tackles nationally in snaps and ranked second among true freshman defensive linemen in Pro Football Focus’ run-defense grading.

Watson made 12 appearances with six starts during his first season at Texas. His totals: 23 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Through the Mississippi State game this fall, he has 19 tackles, three sacks and a forced fumble. His three-tackle performance and touchdown earned him his first SEC co-defensive lineman of the week honor Monday.

The score capped a strong defensive showing. Texas held Mississippi State to 187 total yards, 68 rushing yards and 2.8 yards per play while collecting seven sacks. Sarkisian credited defensive line coach Kenny Baker and the position group for Watson’s improvement.

Why it matters

Watson’s touchdown changed the game before halftime, while his interior play contributed to a seven-sack defensive performance. His production and first SEC weekly honor also reflect his progress since transferring from Syracuse.

What to watch next

Texas, 6-2 overall and 3-2 in SEC play, travels to Missouri on Saturday.