Texas football is looking to end its two-game losing skid, sparked by late fourth-quarter collapses against Oklahoma and Florida.

Perhaps even worse than those losses, however, is the loss of star edge-rusher Colin Simmons, who was injured int he loss vs. the Gators. Could Texas have Simmons, one of the top defensive players in the country, back in Week 8 against Mississippi?

Based on Texas' initial SEC player availability report released on Wednesday, Oct. 21, the answer to that question remains in flux.

Simmons sustained an apparent lower-body injury in the fourth quarter against Florida at the end of a play that saw him stay on the drop, showing notable pain.

The Longhorns and the Rebels are set for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 24 in Austin, Texas. Here's the latest:

Colin Simmons injury update

Simmons was listed as doubtful on Texas' initial SEC player availability report on Wednesday for Saturday's game vs. Ole Miss. 

On Monday, when speaking with reporters, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian deferred to the SEC injury report when asked about reports that Simmons sustained a high ankle sprain and could be out for several weeks.

Simmons exited the field with the help of Texas' medical staff in the fourth quarter against Florida. After spending some time on the sidelines, Simmons was carted off the field, as shown on the ABC broadcast. Here's a look at Simmons being carted off:

Colin Simmons stats

Simmons has emerged as one of the nation's premier defensive players this season, leading the country with 16 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. He is on track to surpass his career-high of 12 sacks from last season, needing just 1.5 more sacks to match that mark.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Colin Simmons injury update: Texas EDGE rusher doubtful vs Ole Miss