Texas Injury Report Update Sets Up Brutal Test vs. Ole Miss

The conversations around the Texas Longhorns' Week 8 matchup with Ole Miss after back-to-back losses have centered on Arch Manning - not for his family's extended history with the Rebels, but for his struggles under center the past two weeks in burnt orange.

Head coach and play-caller Steve Sarkisian has also faced scrutiny for Texas' offensive woes in the back-to-back losses, and Manning's play has sparked debate over whether redshirt freshman backup KJ Lacey Jr. will get playing time. Lacey was reportedly getting more first-team reps in practice this week.

Manning, however, has had an "edgy" sense to him during the week, says Sarkisian. The fourth-year Longhorn and second-year starter appears to be as motivated as ever.

"I’m gonna die on the hill of letting it rip," Manning said about this Saturday night's shot at a bounce back.

READ MORE: 5 Matchups vs. Ole Miss That Could Save Texas' Season

Texas' injury report, however, makes things that much harder for Manning's offense to get going.

On the latest status update, starting running back Hollywood Smothers was downgraded to "doubtful".

Smothers, Texas' leading rusher with 289 yards rushing on 4.4 yards per carry, is listed with an upper-body injury that has forced him to wear a sling, according to 247Sports.

Additionally, freshman running back Derrek Cooper has landed on the injury report and is currently listed as "probable" after missing last week's loss to Florida.

Elsewhere on the injury report, Texas is officially without star pass rusher Colin Simmons, who suffered a high-ankle sprain against the Gators.

Edge rusher Richard Wesley is also ruled out for this weekend. Wide receiver Kaliq Lockett and offensive lineman Jaydon Chatman join Cooper on the list of "questionables".

This week, Sarkisian suggested testing out linebacker Rasheem Biles' versatility along the defensive line to aid Texas' depth at outside linebacker.

READ MORE: Longhorns Offense Falling Flat Despite Texas' Top Talent

Texas leads the SEC in sack percentage, but dynamic quarterback Trinidad Chambliss will be a tough test to solve for defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.

Chambliss has thrown for 1,676 yards and accounted for 14 touchdowns through six games. He threw three touchdown passes in last week's 31-3 victory over Missouri.

Ole Miss' rushing attack could also present a challenge. Running back Kewan Lacy is returning to form after battling injuries. He rushed for 122 yards on 16 carries against Missouri and is listed as probable for Saturday.

If Lacy establishes the run, Chambliss becomes even more dangerous through play-action.