Arch Manning has an opportunity to avenge a 2025 misstep when Texas hosts Ohio State. The Longhorns quickly lost last year's No. 1 preseason ranking when starting the campaign with a 14-7 loss at Columbus. Entering his first season as their starting quarterback to immense hype, Manning completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a tepid outing.
In preparation for their rematch, Manning admitted earlier this week that he hasn't enjoyed rehashing that game. "It's rough film to watch," Manning said, per USA Today's Austin Curtright. "I don’t like watching it that much." The matchup wasn't Manning's finest showing.
Texas punted four straight times in the opening half and converted one of five fourth-down attempts. The Longhorns didn't score until late in the fourth quarter, so the season-opening game quickly dimmed Manning's Heisman hopes. Yet the former five-star recruit enters Ohio Stadium with more momentum.
Manning enjoyed a far better start to the 2026 campaign, completing 20 of 27 passes for 305 yards, four touchdowns, and a pick in a landslide 59-7 win over Texas State. The junior believes he's grown as a player since the Longhorns last encountered the Buckeyes. "Feel like I’m a year better," Manning said.
"Anytime you go throughout a season, get reps, get game experience, then a whole offseason to get better and a game last week, feel like I’m a year better." Manning can make a major statement at Ohio State's expense. A victory would cement the Longhorns as prominent national title contenders, and a strong showing could put him in the early Heisman conversation. The monumental matchup takes place Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
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