Arch Manning, the guy everyone’s already calling the betting favorite for the first overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, just had himself a day. He lit up an overmatched Texas State squad for 305 yards and four touchdowns, completing 20 of 27 passes before heading to the sidelines in the third quarter with Texas absolutely rolling 42-7. It was exactly the kind of stat-stuffing opener you want from your star QB.
The Easy Test Is Over
Look, we gotta be real. That Texas State game? It was an absolute cakewalk, a glorified scrimmage for Manning and the Longhorns. Texas State is a mid-level team stuck in the Sun Belt Conference, and Texas brought one of the most talented teams in college football to the field. Manning passed his first test of the season, sure, but it was basically an open-book exam. He showed off the arm, the accuracy, the poise, even if the one interception is a tiny smudge on an otherwise dominant performance. But let’s be honest, you barely even noticed it with that kind of lead. The kid looked sharp, no doubt, but now the real fun begins.
Ohio State or Bust for the Heisman Hype?
The comfortable start is officially in the rearview mirror, because next week is when Arch Manning faces down the true gauntlet: No. 1 Ohio State. This is not just “a game,” folks. This is shaping up to be one of the biggest games of the entire college football season, and it’s a monumental opportunity for Manning to actually prove he’s the best quarterback in college football. Last year, remember, Manning struggled against the Buckeyes when Texas lost 14-7 on the road. This year, the script is flipped. The game’s at Texas, and Manning is a year older, a year wiser, and a more experienced and seasoned quarterback.
This is it. This is the moment Manning shows the scouts, the analysts, and every single person betting on him for that No. 1 pick if he’s the real deal. After flexing on Texas State, all eyes turn to the Buckeyes. Can he command the Longhorns to a win against the top team in the nation? We’re about to find out, and it’s going to be appointment television. Get ready.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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