Arch Manning’s highly anticipated debut as the Texas Longhorns’ starting quarterback ended in a disappointing 14-7 loss to Ohio State on August 30, 2025, causing a immediate drop in futures markets for both Manning’s individual accolades and the team’s championship odds. The game, held at Ohio Stadium, saw Manning struggle against a formidable Buckeyes defense, highlighting the gap between preseason hype and on-field performance.
Manning, a junior who had waited two seasons behind Quinn Ewers, completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception, displaying inconsistency throughout. In the first half, he managed less than 30 passing yards and was 0-for-5 on throws beyond 5 yards, leading to a sluggish offensive start for Texas. Coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the overwhelming external expectations, calling them “out of control” but emphasizing that this loss is merely one chapter in Manning’s development.
Key turning points included a goal-line stand in the third quarter where Manning was stopped on a quarterback sneak attempt, squandering a 15-play drive, and an interception by Ohio State’s Jermaine Mathews Jr. that set up a Buckeyes touchdown. Despite outgaining Ohio State 166-77 on the ground, Texas failed to score on two red zone drives and had four turnovers on downs, their most since 2017.
The loss had an immediate impact on betting markets, with Manning’s Heisman Trophy odds—where he was the preseason favorite at +650—plummeting, and Texas’ national championship futures also declining. This reflects the heightened scrutiny on high-profile college athletes and how single games can sway market perceptions, especially in the era of legalized sports betting.
Sarkisian and Manning made adjustments at halftime, reviewing film to better understand Ohio State’s coverages, which led to improved play in the fourth quarter. Manning led a rapid 60-yard touchdown drive, completing 4 of 7 passes for 105 yards on throws over 5 yards, showcasing flashes of his potential. However, a subsequent drive stalled with inaccurate passes and a failed fourth-down conversion, sealing the loss.
Manning’s background as part of the famed Manning football family added to the pressure, but his running ability was a positive, with 38 yards on 10 carries. His off-target percentage of 37% was the worst by a Texas quarterback in a decade, indicating areas for improvement in accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
Looking forward, Texas faces lighter opponents in San Jose State and UTEP over the next two weeks, providing an opportunity to address offensive issues before SEC play begins on October 4 at Florida. Sarkisian expressed confidence that the mistakes are fixable, focusing on better throws, catches, and play-calling.
This game serves as a reminder of the challenges in college football, where even top-ranked teams can stumble early, and it sets the stage for Manning to rebound and prove his worth over the long season ahead.