Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns staged a dramatic second-half comeback, scoring the final 20 points to defeat the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes 24-23 on Saturday. The victory avenged a season-opening loss to Ohio State from the previous year and improved the Longhorns' record to 2-0.
Manning, the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, orchestrated a game-winning 12-play, 73-yard drive that concluded with Hollywood Smothers' second touchdown of the game. Despite facing pressure and a difficult outing with dropped passes from his receivers, including one that was intercepted, Manning completed 23 of 37 passes for 196 yards and threw one touchdown and one interception. He appeared to gain an early edge in the Heisman Trophy race against Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin, who finished 17 of 32 for 278 yards with a touchdown and an interception.
Manning's touchdown pass to Ryan Wingo early in the fourth quarter ignited the Longhorns' rally. Smothers' scoring run with 7:14 remaining put Texas within striking distance. The Buckeyes had an opportunity to extend their lead with a field goal, but Connor Hawkins missed from 45 yards, leaving the door open for Texas' decisive drive.
For Ohio State, Jeremiah Smith was a standout receiver, catching eight passes for 164 yards and a touchdown. However, the Buckeyes' offense managed only a single field goal after halftime. The game concluded with an interception of Sayin's desperation pass on the final play.
"We got a bunch of good players, a lot of leaders," Manning told ESPN after the game. "It's a fun night. I had nightmares when I came [to Columbus] last year, so we got a good win tonight. Have a good night, Austin. Thank you so much."
The win is considered one of the most significant regular-season victories for Texas coach Steve Sarkisian in six seasons and a pivotal moment for Manning, who has faced expectations early in his career. The victory could also position Texas for a claim at the No. 1 ranking in national polls.