New Year's Eve Warning: Three Longhorn Stars Michigan Must Contain In The Citrus Bowl

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

The stage is set for a New Year's Eve battle of college football giants as the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines prepare to face the No. 13 Texas Longhorns in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando. Both teams finished the regular season at 9-3 and are eager to cap off their year with a impressive tenth victory.

While Michigan's strength lies in its top-20 defense and potent rushing attack led by running back Jordan Marshall, they face a Texas team absolutely loaded with high-end, young talent. The Longhorns are explosive on both sides of the ball, and if the Wolverines want to avoid a third straight loss to Texas (following a regular season defeat in 2024 and the 2005 Rose Bowl classic), they must neutralize the impact of three Longhorn stars.

Here are the three Texas players the Michigan coaching staff is surely highlighting in their Citrus Bowl prep:

1. Arch Manning, Quarterback (No. 16)

The wait is officially over. As the full-time starter in the 2025 season, Arch Manning has finally taken the reins of the Longhorn offense, and the results have been formidable. Manning finished the regular season with nearly 3,000 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, while also proving to be a dangerous rushing threat with eight scores on the ground.

Michigan's defense, known for stifling opponents' rushing attacks, will have to contend with Manning's dual-threat capability. Defensive end Derrick Moore, who led the Big Ten in sacks, will need to be disciplined in his pass rush, ensuring he doesn't create open running lanes for the mobile Manning. He has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in pressure situations, but also displayed some inconsistency against elite defenses. The Wolverines’ goal must be to confuse him with varied coverages and force him into quick, potentially inaccurate throws rather than allowing him time to extend plays.

2. Quintrevion Wisner, Running Back (No. 5)

Here's why the junior running back is the Longhorns' most dangerous non-QB offensive threat:

  • Elite Dual-Threat Ability: Wisner is not just a runner; he's a true all-purpose back. In the 2024 season, he rushed for over 1,000 yards and was also a major factor in the passing game, catching 44 passes for 311 yards and a touchdown. This dual-threat capability makes him a nightmare for defensive coordinators, as Michigan can't just key on the run when he's on the field.
  • A "Double Threat" Against Linebackers: Wisner forces Michigan's linebackers to be disciplined in both run fits and pass coverage. If they commit too aggressively to stopping the run, Wisner can exploit the open space with a dump-off pass from Manning.
  • The Go-To Option in the Running Back Room: While Texas has a talented group of backs (including CJ Baxter Jr., who is a major talent but off the transfer portal), Wisner emerged as the reliable, high-volume workhorse, especially late in the season. He is the one most likely to wear down Michigan's defensive front and provide consistent yardage.

Michigan's dominant defense is built on stopping the run first. If the Wolverines can bottle up Wisner and force the Longhorns into predictable down-and-distance situations, they stand a much better chance of disrupting Arch Manning's rhythm. Allowing Wisner to get into a groove and consistently pick up first downs, both on the ground and through the air, is the fastest way for Texas to control the clock and keep the Wolverines' strong offense off the field.

 

3. Colin Simmons, Edge Rusher (No. 1)

While the Texas secondary is talented, pressure on freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood will come from the edge, spearheaded by sophomore defensive end Colin Simmons. Simmons had a "sensational" true freshman campaign, leading the Longhorns with 11 sacks, which also put him among the national leaders. He possesses an elite combination of speed, bend, and advanced pass-rushing moves that can blow past opposing offensive tackles.

Michigan's offensive line—though an experienced unit—will have to devote significant attention to Simmons. The Wolverines’ young quarterback, Bryce Underwood, has had a solid debut season but can be prone to mistakes when pressured. Limiting Simmons' impact will be a key to success, ensuring Underwood has time to connect with top targets like Andrew Marsh and Donaven McCulley, and allowing the rushing lanes to develop. If the offensive tackles can handle Simmons one-on-one, it will force Texas to divert resources, opening up the ground game.

The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is more than just a New Year's Eve destination; it's a critical barometer for both programs. For Michigan, a win validates their continued success despite a disappointing end to the Big Ten season. To secure that victory, the Maize and Blue must have a plan in place to mitigate the explosiveness and talent of Arch Manning, Quintrevion Wisner, and Colin Simmons.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos