After a disappointing defeat at the hands of Georgia last week, all eyes will once again fall on Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns as they host Arkansas on Saturday. The No. 17 Longhorns are looking to rebound and stay alive in the College Football Playoff conversation, though the road back is steep after three losses this season.
Arch Manning Carries the Load
Manning has been the steady hand in an inconsistent Texas offense, throwing for 2,374 yards and 19 touchdowns while completing 62.7% of his passes. Against Georgia, he managed 251 yards through the air, but the Longhorns were held to just 10 points behind an offense that ranks 80th nationally. Penalties have also hindered Texas, with 65.3 penalty yards per game, ranking 119th in the FBS. Saturday offers Manning a chance to regain momentum, make a statement in front of a national audience, and continue building toward bowl season and 2026.
Arkansas Offense vs. Texas Defense
The Razorbacks enter the game at 2–8, but their offense remains dangerous. Quarterback Taylen Green and running back Mike Washington lead a unit that ranks among the top 15 nationally. Green’s dual-threat ability makes him one of the most electric players in college football, capable of creating big plays with both his arm and legs.
Texas’ defense, however, ranks 12th in takeaways and 6th nationally against the run, presenting a potential matchup advantage. This side of the ball has been a strength of the Longhorns all season long. If Texas can force turnovers, they could swing the game in their favor early and often.
Arkansas Defense: A Major Concern
The Razorbacks’ struggles on defense are well-documented. Arkansas ranks 123rd nationally in total defense, allowing 32.3 points per game while conceding 426.5 yards per contest, including 181.2 rushing yards and 245.3 passing yards. The unit has contributed heavily to Arkansas’ eight-game losing streak, making it vulnerable against Texas’ high-powered offense.
Arkansas will need to establish the run to set up manageable passing situations for Green and keep Manning from taking over the game. Interim coach Bobby Petrino will be looking to play spoiler, leaning on the team’s SEC experience to challenge Texas and add pressure to Coach Steve Sarkisian. This is Petrino's "Super Bowl" with these next two games most likely being his last as the coach. He has nothing to lose and Texas has everything to lose.
Texas’ Path Forward
While Texas should have the advantage, the Razorbacks have proven frisky against top-tier SEC competition in 2025. For the Longhorns, this game is about response. Overcoming a tough loss, staying disciplined, and proving they can execute against an opponent capable of creating chaos. For Manning, the stakes are personal and developmental. A strong performance could silence some critics, build confidence, and set the tone for the remainder of the season. For Texas as a team, it’s a chance to regroup, limit mistakes, and stay in the conversation for postseason opportunities.
Key Matchups to Watch
Arch Manning will face a vulnerable Arkansas secondary, and much of the game could hinge on his ability to take advantage of coverage gaps while limiting mistakes after the Georgia setback. Meanwhile, Taylen Green will look to challenge Texas’ strong front seven and create explosive plays both through the air and on the ground.
Turnovers and penalties will be critical, as both teams have struggled with discipline this season and any mistakes could quickly shift momentum in a tightly contested matchup. Saturday’s game offers drama, national attention, and a critical test for Texas to see if Manning can lead his team out of adversity. The Longhorns are favored, but Arkansas’ history of pulling off upsets in the SEC means nothing will come easy in this underrated rivalry.