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Arch Manning struggled in the Texas Longhorns' win over the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday and faced criticism on social media for failing to take his game to the next level.
Manning, who headed Longhorns was 12 of 27 passing for 132 yards before defeating No. 6 Oklahoma last week. He rushed for minus-1 yards on 11 attempts. However, Texas managed to win 16–13 thanks to a Mason Shipley field goal in overtime.
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Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) is sacked during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. (AP Photo/Michael Swensen)
The star defender's performance was not good enough to win over the fans.
Manning acknowledged that the defense stepped up to really help get the win.
“The defense kept us going all night,” he said via Houston Chronicle. “Ultimately, I have to play better. We need to start faster. Obviously it was a tough night for the offense.”
Texas had just eight first downs and 179 yards of total offense on 12 drives.
Texas defensive tackle Arch Manning (16) looks for a receiver during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. (AP Photo/Michael Swensen)
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Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian was ecstatic with the win.
“What a victory,” Sarkissian said. “I said it all the time. You go out on the road at night in the SEC, this league is tough. It’s tough and we need to find a way to win this game tonight.”
Texas quarterback Arch Manning (top) calls the play before the snap during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. (AP Photo/Michael Swensen)
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Texas improved to 5-2 and 2-1 against SEC opponents. The Longhorns are ranked fifth in the conference. The team goes on a journey Mississippi next weekend.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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