Looking Ahead: Should Texas Be Ranked Higher?
The Texas Longhorns made a statement on Saturday with a dominant 56-7 victory over UTSA, and the spotlight shone brightly on sophomore quarterback Arch Manning. Stepping in for the injured Quinn Ewers, Manning not only lived up to the hype surrounding his famous football lineage but electrified the crowd and left no doubt about his talent.
After Ewers left the game with a “strained abdomen,” according to head coach Steve Sarkisian, it was Manning’s time to shine. The grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of NFL greats Peyton and Eli Manning wasted no time making an impact. On his very first snap, Manning connected with wide receiver DeAndre Moore for a 19-yard touchdown, putting Texas up 21-0.
UTSA quickly answered with a touchdown of their own, but Manning was unfazed. On the next drive, he took off for a stunning 67-yard touchdown run, sending social media into a frenzy. It was the longest run by a Longhorns quarterback since Vince Young in the 2005 national championship season. The comparisons to Texas’ legendary QB were inevitable, as Manning showed the poise, speed, and playmaking ability that could make him the next great Longhorn.
Manning finished the game with five total touchdowns—one on the ground and four through the air—completing 9-of-12 passes for 223 yards. His performance was nothing short of sensational, and the Texas offense looked unstoppable under his command.
The Texas Defense Steps Up
While Manning’s heroics grabbed headlines, the Texas defense quietly delivered a shutdown performance. They held UTSA to just 7 points, completely smothering the Roadrunners’ offense after their lone score. Texas forced multiple turnovers, including a key interception that swung momentum back in their favor. The Longhorns’ defensive line dominated in the trenches, racking up sacks and keeping constant pressure on UTSA’s quarterback.
Led by standout performances from linebacker Jaylan Ford and defensive lineman T’Vondre Sweat, Texas’ defense set the tone early and never let up. This was the kind of complete, dominant performance that shows Texas is not only dangerous on offense but has a defense capable of shutting down opponents.
Looking Ahead: Should Texas Be Ranked Higher?
With another commanding win in the books, Texas is proving they are a force to be reckoned with in college football. If they can secure another victory next week, there’s a strong case for the Longhorns to be ranked higher in the national polls.
Between Arch Manning’s breakout performances and the lockdown Texas defense, this team is starting to look like a legitimate College Football Playoff contender. If they continue to build momentum, it’s hard to deny that Texas belongs among the elite programs in the country. With each game, the Longhorns are making it clear they’re not just back—they’re ready to compete for a national title.