Manning struggles in Texas opener at Ohio State

Arch Manning faces high expectations as Texas opens against the defending champions in Columbus and shows flashes of growth despite the loss.

Manning struggles as Texas drops opener at Ohio State

Columbus, Ohio — Texas opened its season against the defending national champions and fell short, losing 14-7 to Ohio State. Arch Manning finished with 208 yards of total offense, completing 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards and adding 38 rushing yards. The Longhorns moved the ball well between the 20s but were held in the red zone, failing to convert four fourth-down opportunities and stalling on drives, including a fourth-and-goal at the Ohio State 1.

An early sequence helped Ohio State build a 14-point lead before the fourth quarter. Manning threw an interception in the third quarter, and the Buckeyes capitalized to go up 14-0. He did lead a late scoring drive, including a 32-yard TD pass to Parker Livingstone, but Texas could not complete the comeback. Coach Steve Sarkisian said Manning showed poise and that the team will keep letting him play, noting that this is only one chapter in a long season.

The result punctuates the pressure around Manning as a high-profile hopeful in a program under national scrutiny. His stat line shows both growth and rough edges: yardage between the 20s, but limited efficiency in the red zone and a turnover. Ohio State’s defense tightened after halftime, and Texas could not convert enough chances to swing momentum. The loss in a marquee non-conference game will shape the early-season narrative, but it is only one data point in a long arc.

This season will measure more than arm strength; it will test Manning’s decision-making under pressure and the coaching plan that leans into his mobility. Texas has flashes of high-end potential on offense, but short-yardage execution and finishing drives must improve. If Manning continues to grow amid the glare of national attention, the path from setback to breakthrough can still be bright.

Highlights

The season will reveal Manning’s readiness to grow under pressure.