DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium was the perfect stage for a standout performance by the Texas Longhorns — especially from their starting quarterback, Arch Manning. Steve Sarkisian’s squad put on an impressive display against Sam Houston, proving that their ambitions in this College Football season are nothing short of serious.
Following his last outing against the UTEP Miners, much was said about Manning’s performance — particularly questioning the accuracy of his right arm. But all that talk was put to rest after a solid showing at home Saturday, as the Longhorns cruised to a dominant 55-0 victory.
According to his head coach’s postgame comments, one of the quarterback’s greatest strengths is his personality — particularly his ability to handle challenges with composure and confidence.
“I always say this about Arch, there’s a lot more personality in there than sometimes everyone gets to see,” Sarkisian said. “I always feel like he’s a little bit at his best when that emotion kind of comes out some. I think there was a lot built up in there, obviously, from last week that he needed to get out. But inevitably, I think the guys feed off of that for him, and it’s one of his strengths.”
“He’s a very cerebral guy in his approach and in his preparation, but at his core, I think when he plays a little looser, a little bit more free, that’s the best version of Arch,” the head coach added. “That’s when he’s really at his best.“
Celebration gets out of hand
As the final seconds of the first quarter ticked down in the Longhorns’ dominant win over Sam Houston, Arch Manning delivered an impressive rushing touchdown — but it was his controversial celebration directed at a defender that stole the spotlight, earning the quarterback a yellow flag.
After the game, the quarterback reflected on the incident, expressing regret over what had happened and offering a sincere apology for his actions.
“Probably a little much there,” Manning said of the stare down. “My mom was pretty mad about that. A little immature, but I think it’s some built up frustration those past few weeks.”
“The ref came up to me, I was so scared,” he also added. “The ref ripped by (expletive). I apologized to the ref.”
What’s next for the Longhorns?
The College Football season is starting to heat up for the Longhorns, with a series of tough matchups ahead that will ultimately define what this team is truly made of.
- @ Florida, October 4
- @ Oklahoma, October 11
- @ Kentucky, October 18
- @ Mississippi State, October 25
- vs Vanderbilt, November 1