Arch Manning will bring momentum into Texas' rematch with Ohio State

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' season-opening victory over Texas State. 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).

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).