Arch Manning's Heisman and Draft Hopes Dim After Oklahoma Loss
Texas quarterback throws two crucial fourth-quarter interceptions in upset defeat.
Arch Manning's chances of winning the Heisman Trophy this season have significantly diminished, and his NFL draft stock is now under scrutiny following a critical late-game performance in No. 1 Texas's 27-24 upset loss to unranked Oklahoma on Saturday. The Red River Rivalry game saw the Longhorns, who were heavily favored, falter in the final quarter, with Manning throwing two interceptions that directly impacted the outcome.
Manning's first critical mistake occurred with the game tied at 17-17. While scrambling, he threw a pass that was intercepted by Oklahoma's Peyton Bowen and returned for a touchdown, giving the Sooners a 24-17 lead with just over 10 minutes remaining. Although Texas managed to tie the game later, Manning's second interception with less than 20 seconds left sealed the Longhorns' fate.
On second-and-10 from Oklahoma's 49-yard line, Manning threw a flat-footed interception to Courtland Guillory. This turnover allowed Oklahoma to take possession and quickly advance into field goal range, with Tate Sandell ultimately converting a 47-yard kick as time expired for the victory.
Manning completed 19 of 31 passes for 260 yards, three touchdowns, and the two crucial interceptions. As of Sunday morning, his Heisman Trophy odds were listed at +10000, tying him for 12th, with Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith emerging as the clear favorite.
In terms of the 2027 NFL Draft, Smith is also the frontrunner according to FanDuel, with Manning and Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr listed as co-second favorites. Recent ESPN rankings for the 2027 NFL Draft placed Manning fifth among quarterback prospects.
