Arch Manning Leads Texas to Dominant First Half Against No. 7 Ole Miss
The Longhorns outscored the Rebels 21-3 in the second quarter, with Manning accounting for two touchdowns.
The Texas Longhorns established a commanding 24-3 lead over the No. 7 Ole Miss Rebels by halftime on Saturday, fueled by a strong performance from quarterback Arch Manning. The Longhorns scored 21 unanswered points in the second quarter to close out the first half.
Manning, a junior, was instrumental in Texas' early success, throwing for 171 yards and a touchdown while also contributing a rushing touchdown. He completed 13 of 19 pass attempts, though he did throw one interception. His performance comes amidst ongoing speculation about his future, with some analysts suggesting he might benefit from another year of development at a different college program.
Analyst Dan Orlovsky recently stated on ESPN's "First Take" that he believes Manning should consider transferring from Texas to a program that can better develop his skills as a quarterback, rather than entering the NFL draft. "I do not believe Arch should go to the NFL. I believe Arch should leave Texas and go to a place that can adamantly develop him as a quarterback, that gives you the ability to play quarterback," Orlovsky said.
Texas wide receiver Ryan Wingo also had a significant impact in the first half, accumulating 104 receiving yards and scoring a touchdown on five receptions. On the ground, running back Raleek Brown gained 48 yards on nine carries, and Michael Terry III added a rushing touchdown late in the second quarter.
The Longhorns' defense also contributed to the first-half dominance, holding Ole Miss scoreless in the second quarter. Interceptions by Justin Cryer and Rasheem Biles stifled the Rebels' offensive momentum.
Ole Miss struggled offensively throughout the first half, managing only 138 total yards. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss completed 6 of 18 passes for 63 yards and threw two interceptions. The Rebels' sole points came from a 46-yard field goal in the first quarter.
Texas initially opened the scoring with a 23-yard field goal midway through the first quarter before Ole Miss responded with their own kick. Following the Rebels' field goal, Texas began its scoring streak, which extended throughout the remainder of the first half.