The true test is next week, but at least Arch Manning will have some momentum when Texas faces top-ranked Ohio State this season.
The third-generation quarterback starred in the No. 5 Longhorns’ 59-7 victory over Texas State in the season opener. Manning threw for 305 yards and completed 20 of 27 passes while spreading the ball to eight receivers.
His four passing touchdowns tied a career high that he achieved twice last year, and he looked sharp (aside from a late first-half interception into triple coverage in the Texas State end zone).
Arch with the dart🎯 pic.twitter.com/74ucmwlJM7
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) September 5, 2026
Manning left the game with a 42-7 lead midway through the third quarter and the confidence that was lacking after the 2025 opener — a 14-7 loss to Ohio State that began his first full season as Texas’ starter.
Entering the game as a Heisman hopeful, Manning completed 17 of 30 passes for the Longhorns, who lost their preseason top ranking for good and missed the College Football Playoff. Manning still led Texas to a 10-3 record and was named MVP of the Citrus Bowl after a 41-27 win over Michigan.
Now he’ll try to make it two wins in a row against the Big Ten on Sept. 12 in Austin, Texas, as the Longhorns take on the Buckeyes (who also looked impressive in their opener Saturday).
Arch Manning making things happen ✨
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) September 5, 2026
🏈 4-4, 46 yards, TD against the blitz
🏈 4-4, 52 yards, 3 1st downs when pressured
🏈 3-3, 48 yards, 3 1st downs passing outside the pocket pic.twitter.com/qe2noOEovq
