Manning gets second chance as Texas prepares for Ohio State rematch

Arch Manning says a year of experience and a full off-season have prepared him for a second chance against Ohio State, after a difficult debut in Texas’ 14–7 loss last season.

Manning completed 9 of 15 passes for 38 yards and an interception through three quarters before helping Texas mount a comeback attempt, finishing with eight completions for 132 yards and a touchdown. “Not a lot of good memories a year ago,” he said, according to ESPN. “Hoping to have a good game this year.”

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said the Longhorns had been physically prepared in the previous meeting but struggled in the passing game for most of the contest. Texas ran for 166 yards from 37 carries, according to Sarkisian, but fell behind 14–0.

The rematch will take place on Saturday at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, with the No. 5 Longhorns hosting the No. 1 Buckeyes at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Ohio State also defeated Texas 28–14 in the College Football Playoff semi-final at the Cotton Bowl in January 2025.

ESPN Analytics rated the fixture 100.0 for pre-game matchup quality, while College GameDay is scheduled to attend. DraftKings had Texas as a slight favourite on Monday afternoon, although the line could change.

Manning said the opportunity to face Ohio State again was unusual after a difficult loss. For Texas, the game will test whether the team’s development over the past year has addressed the passing problems that shaped the previous meeting.