Arch Manning Shines in Bowl Game Start for Texas

Arch Manning is set to make his first bowl game start as the Texas Longhorns take on the Michigan Wolverines, who are dealing with injuries following the Sherrone Moore controversy.

This season, Manning has indeed lived up to the considerable expectations, leading Texas to a decisive 41-27 win in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.

The contest was quite competitive, as both teams were largely evenly matched, with the score tied at 17 by halftime. Manning managed to rally his team and maintain the lead, with the defense stepping up when it mattered most.

He took control of the game with a 17-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jack Endires. After Michigan responded with a field goal, Manning showcased his versatility with a 23-yard touchdown run.

However, Michigan wasn’t done yet. Bryce Underwood gave the Wolverines a temporary lead with a 5-yard touchdown that nearly resulted in a fumble in the end zone, making it 28-24 early in the fourth quarter. But despite that, the Longhorns kept the momentum going. Manning orchestrated a nine-play, 75-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown pass to Karik Lockett.

Things didn’t end there; Underwood threw an interception shortly after. Manning then delivered a crushing blow by sprinting 60 yards for another touchdown. Eventually, Texas tacked on a field goal late, sealing the victory.

In total, Manning had an impressive performance, scoring four touchdowns and racking up 376 total yards—221 through the air and 155 on the ground, marking a career high for his rushing yardage.

The Longhorns concluded the 2025 season with 10 victories, achieving this milestone for the third consecutive year. On the other hand, the Wolverines, despite the loss, will be entering a new chapter under head coach Kyle Whittingham.