Desmond Howard Sends Ohio State Warning on Arch Manning Before Week 2
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All eyes will be on the Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns this weekend in college football as two of the top-five teams go head-to-head.
In a rematch from last season's opening game, the two programs will be trying to earn a statement win. Ohio State was able to take down Texas last season at home, sending the Longhorns down a weird road for the rest of the year.
The Buckeyes made Texas quarterback Arch Manning look lost at times during the game, but this season, things could be different. Manning threw for just 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception in the loss last season.
The Ohio State defense swarmed him all game, making life very tough for the young quarterback. But Ohio State will be facing a more experienced Manning, and the Buckeyes will have to be very aware of this fact.
Before the game, college football analyst Desmond Howard discussed what to expect from Manning entering this crucial game.
"It was all on Arch. Arch was in his own head a year ago when they played Ohio State in Columbus. I think he started to turn a corner around Week 5; he started to play better. And he ended last season very strong. With that being said, if he is able to pick up where he left off a year ago, I think this offense is going to be great. Don't forget, they added a lot of pieces to the offense too…I think now Arch has all the pieces, all the tools; he should be fine," Howard said.
"If he's able to pick up where he left off a year ago, I think this offense is going to be great."
—@DesmondHoward on Arch Manning and Texas 🏈 pic.twitter.com/ZSY8FZKBBt
— First Take (@FirstTake) September 11, 2026
Playing in Austin will change the feel of this game as well, giving Texas more of an advantage. Last season, the Buckeyes had the backing of Columbus with them, helping them edge out the Longhorns.
Manning will be in a more comfortable environment this time around, giving more thought to his chances of having a good game. Texas also added multiple pieces on offense to help bolster the attack, which could give the Buckeyes' defense some fits.
But Ohio State is the No. 1 team in the country for a reason, and this group will be trying to earn more respect in this game. If they can come away with a win on the road against Texas, there will be no doubt about how good a team they can be.
This game will test Ohio State in ways that they couldn't imagine, but the Buckeyes will be ready for whatever comes their way on Saturday. Kickoff between Texas and Ohio State will take place at 4:30 p.m. PT/7:30 p.m. ET from Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin.
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