Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns will look to avenge last season’s loss when they host No. 1 Ohio State in a primetime matchup at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC. The game follows Texas’s 59-7 rout of Texas State in their season opener, where Manning completed 20 of 27 passes for 305 yards and four touchdowns.
The rematch comes after Ohio State defeated Texas 28-14 in the 2024 College Football Playoff semifinal and 14-7 in last year’s season opener, both on the road. Manning struggled in the latter contest, completing 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown, and one interception as Texas fell short. This season, Manning has added new weapons, including transfer wide receiver Cam Coleman, who caught three passes for 70 yards and two touchdowns against Texas State.
Game Day Preparations in Austin
With kickoff set for 6:30 p.m., fans have a full day to explore outdoor activities near the stadium. Lady Bird Lake, less than 10 minutes from DKR, offers paddleboarding and kayaking rentals for $20–$30 per hour, with calm waters and views of the downtown skyline. Barton Springs Pool, located about 10 minutes away in Zilker Park, provides a constant 68-degree escape from the mid-90s heat, with entry fees ranging from $5 to $9.
Analyst Perspective on Manning’s Season
College football analyst Paul Finebaum emphasized the stakes for Manning ahead of the Ohio State game. Finebaum noted that Manning’s performance in last year’s loss to Ohio State has lingered, stating, “I hate to come down on Arch, but he has to have a monster game because that game last year still shadows him a little bit.” Finebaum added that Texas’s victory is critical for head coach Steve Sarkisian, who previously stated the loss helped Manning improve.
Manning’s preseason NIL valuation of $6.8 million reflects his high expectations, though his early-season struggles last year included three games with completion rates below 50%. This season, with Coleman and other transfers bolstering the offense, Manning has shown early improvement, including a strong debut against Texas State.
The matchup marks the latest chapter in a rivalry renewed by last year’s close losses, with both teams entering the game ranked in the top five nationally. Texas, now ranked No. 5, seeks to prove its progress, while Ohio State, the preseason No. 1, aims to extend its dominance in the series.