Arch Manning’s debut wasn’t a fairytale—Texas crumbles and he owns it

When it comes to NFL legacy surnames, Manning needs no introduction. So naturally, the spotlight was always going to find him. Arch Manning, grandson of Archie, nephew of Peyton and Eli, and now the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, carries a heavy burden. It’s the weight of history—a kind of emotional backpack that doesn’t forgive mistakes. And that pressure was on full display in Manning’s official debut against Ohio State, where Texas Longhorns fell 14-7 in a game that left more questions than answers.

Arch Manning completed less than 57% of his passes. In the first half, he managed just 26 passing yards. Ohio State’s defense kept him under siege, the heat was brutal, and the stadium noise only seemed to amplify every doubt. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter that Manning connected with Parker Livingstone for a 32-yard touchdown—the only score for Texas. A flash of talent in an otherwise gray night.

What a first career TD catch by Parker Livingstone!
pic.twitter.com/2LrIeHo226

— Orangebloods.com (@orangebloods_) August 30, 2025

Manning owns the loss

After the bitter result, Arch Manning didn’t hide. “We beat ourselves, and that starts with me. I have to play better so we can win,” he said with maturity. This was reported by the U.S. outlet Firstsportz, which covered the game in detail. Manning’s self-criticism echoed across social media, where fans split between those preaching patience and others demanding immediate results.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian stepped up to defend his young quarterback Arch Manning. He reminded everyone that this was just the first chapter of a long season. “The expectations outside are out of control. This is just one chapter—we’ve got a lot of football ahead,” Sarkisian said.

Sarkisian on QB Arch Manning: “The expectations were out of control on the outside, but I’d say let’s finish the book before we judge it. This is one chapter and we have a long season to play.”

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) August 30, 2025

From backup to starter

Context matters. Arch Manning enters the spotlight after two years backing up Quinn Ewers, with only two starts in 2024. During that stretch, Manning racked up 939 passing yards, 9 touchdowns, and just 2 interceptions, plus 4 rushing touchdowns. The talent is there, but stepping into the starting role demands more than stats. Analysts say Manning must show leadership, composure, and resilience.

The comparison to Tim Tebow, made by Paul Finebaum days before the game, didn’t help. The hype was massive—and the fall, inevitable. Ohio State didn’t shine offensively either, but their quarterback Julian Sayin landed a 40-yard pass in the fourth quarter that sealed the score. Texas and Arch Manning hadn’t lost a season opener since 2018.

Now, the Longhorns prepare to face San Jose State—a less intimidating opponent, but just as crucial for rebuilding confidence. For Arch Manning, it’s another chance to prove that his last name isn’t just legacy—it’s promise. And he’s got the tools to back it up.