Arch Manning’s Texas Longhorns Debut To Forget

Arch Manning’s Texas Longhorns debut was far from memorable. Instead, Manning’s Longhorns debut was one to forget. Here is why.

Arch Manning’s Texas Longhorns Debut

Manning’s Texas Longhorns debut didn’t go as planned. Last Saturday, No. 1 Texas lost 14-7 to No. 3 Ohio State at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, OH. Manning led the Longhorns to just one scoring drive.

Fortunately, there are 11 regular season games left for Manning, 21, to turn things around. Manning’s bright spot came off the Longhorns’ lone score in the fourth quarter last Saturday. The 21-year-old connected with Wide Receiver Parker Livingstone for a 32-yard touchdown on what appeared to be a perfect throw. Manning’s interception came in the third quarter. Manning underthrew A ball to Ohio State Cornerback Jermaine Mathews Jr., who stepped in front of a throw intended for Texas Wide Receiver Ryan Wingo.

Arch Manning’s Texas Outlook

Manning’s stat line includes: 17 completions, 30 attempts, 57% percentage, 170 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception, 108.6 quarterback rating, 10 rush attempts, 38 rushing yards, and 3.8 yards per carry.

Manning’s rough debut can be turned around. Manning has reportedly been warned to “calm down” so he can continue to be a rising star in college football. The New Orleans, Louisiana, native has limited starting experience but can meet expectations amid the extreme pressure due to the excellence of the Manning family.

Final Thoughts

If Manning meets expectations, he will have a chance at winning the Heisman Trophy. Manning hasn’t appeared to seek attention, not even as a backup behind then-Texas Longhorns Starting Quarterback Quinn Ewers. Ewers, 22, is currently a quarterback for the Miami Dolphins after being selected with the 231st pick in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Manning won’t succeed at “blending in.” However, Manning’s potential can lead to success, depending on his performance and development. The oldest son of entrepreneur and television personality Cooper Manning and attorney Ellen Heidingsfelder should strive for a winning record and lead a well-stocked Texas roster backed by an NIL war chest — or financial resources, allocated for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in college sports.