True freshman quarterback Arch Manning led the Texas Longhorns to a 56-7 rout over UTSA, throwing for four touchdowns and running for another after replacing injured Heisman Trophy favorite Quinn Ewers.
The Texas Longhorns witnessed the rise of a future star in Austin on Saturday night as Arch Manning stepped up in place of the injured Quinn Ewers, leading the Horns to a dominant 56-7 victory over UTSA. Ewers, who was in the running for the Heisman Trophy, suffered a "strained abdomen" in the second quarter, leaving the game and opening the door for Manning to showcase his immense talent.
As Ewers limped off the field, head coach Steve Sarkisian turned to his young backup to steer the Longhorns to victory against a UTSA team they were expected to defeat. Manning, the nephew of NFL greats Peyton and Eli Manning, did not disappoint.
Arch Manning Shines in Debut as Texas Dominates UTSA
The redshirt freshman orchestrated a flawless four-play, 72-yard drive, culminating in a 19-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Moore Jr. that extended Texas' lead to 21-0. Manning had already shown flashes of brilliance with two touchdowns and one interception before Ewers exited the game.
However, it was his mobility that truly set him apart. On the second play of Texas' next drive, Manning broke loose for a stunning 67-yard run, leaving defenders in his wake, and extending the lead to 28-7.
Arch Manning Shines in Debut as Texas Dominates UTSA
The second half witnessed more of Manning's magic. He launched a 51-yard touchdown strike to Isaiah Bond to open the third quarter, followed by a deep 75-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Wingo.
In total, Manning completed nine of his 12 passes for 223 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 53 rushing yards on three carries, including a touchdown on the ground.
Arch Manning Shines in Debut as Texas Dominates UTSA
Sarkisian praised Manning's poise and performance, stating, "It's hard when you have a backup who doesn't have a ton of experience. Arch was our third guy last year. There's nothing like being in the game. Playing in front of 105,000 people is not the easiest thing to do. I'm really proud of Arch."
While some may clamor for Manning to take over the starting job permanently, Ewers, a highly touted senior quarterback projected as a top NFL Draft pick in 2025, remains the starter for now. However, Manning's performance has showcased his potential to step up and lead the Longhorns if needed.
Despite the elation surrounding Manning's debut, the young quarterback expressed concern for his injured teammate, saying, "I've just learned so much from him. He's been the man to me, and I hope he's OK."
As Texas fans bask in the glow of Manning's brilliant performance against UTSA, they can take comfort knowing that the Longhorns have a talented and promising quarterback waiting in the wings, ready to step up if called upon.
