The No. 5 Longhorns absolutely went off against Texas State on Saturday, winning a 59-7 season opener that saw quarterback Arch Manning throw for 305 yards and four touchdowns. Texas looked ready to take the country by storm, putting up points on eight of their nine drives and showing some serious firepower right out of the gate. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement.
Manning Mania (With One Head-Scratcher)
Look, the Heisman hype around Arch Manning has been building since he stepped on campus, and Saturday’s performance won’t quiet a single voice. He was absolutely dealing, completing 74% of his passes and leading the Longhorns to touchdowns on six of his seven drives. We saw him connect on some beautiful deep balls, too, showing that arm strength everyone talks about. He wrapped up his day giving way to KJ Lacey, who went 6 of 7 for 55 yards, in the third quarter. There was one play, though, that makes you go, “Whoa, what was that?” He threw an ill-advised pick into the end zone at the end of the first half, costing them points. Still, 305 yards, 20-of-27 passing, and four touchdowns? Those numbers speak for themselves.
Transfer Talent Lights Up the Scoreboard
Texas didn’t just get a show from Manning; their new running backs made some serious noise. Hollywood Smothers broke out for a 45-yard run and snagged a receiving touchdown, proving he’s got game-breaking ability. Raleek Brown wasn’t to be outdone, ripping off a 13-yard and a 21-yard touchdown run himself. The wide receiver room also popped, with Cam Coleman scoring the first touchdown of the season for Texas and finishing with 70 yards and two scores on three catches. But it was returning starter Ryan Wingo who truly keyed the passing attack, hauling in seven catches for 121 yards and a touchdown. That connection with Manning is real, and it looks like Wingo is definitely the go-to guy. And on defense? Rasheem Biles, the transfer from Pittsburgh, earned every single penny. He forced a fumble that Graceson Littleton returned 59 yards for a touchdown and then picked off Texas State quarterback Brad Jackson in the second half. This guy looks like a linchpin.
No Injuries, Full Confidence for the Big One
The best news from the whole day? No significant injuries! The Longhorns head into next week completely healthy, which is massive. They were scoring touchdowns everywhere, even getting a defensive score in there. This Saturday, September 12, 2026, it’s the home showdown everyone has been waiting for: No. 5 Texas against No. 1 Ohio State. After putting up 59 points and looking this good, the Longhorns should walk into that game with a ton of confidence. This is going to be a battle, and we can’t wait to see what happens when the top two go at it!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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