AUSTIN, Texas — Following a dramatic 24-23 comeback victory over Ohio State, Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning has taken significant steps forward in his development, according to Geoff Ketchum of OrangeBloods.com.
Appearing on "The Thing About Sports," Ketchum addressed the narrative surrounding the 22-year-old quarterback, who has faced intense national scrutiny early in his career. Despite a tough start to the game, Manning helped guide the now top-ranked Longhorns to a late victory, demonstrating the resilience expected of an elite collegiate signal-caller.
"I think everybody realizes Arch has been treated a little harsh, a little early in the initial assessment of him without really giving him a chance to play through anything," Ketchum said. "I didn't think he was playing especially well, but he pulled it together in the fourth quarter. All that matters is the bottom line."
The victory marked a crucial milestone for Manning, who played without major downfield production from star wide receivers Cam Coleman and Ryan Wingo. Instead, Manning relied on a short passing game and opportunistic plays to secure the win. Ketchum noted that overcoming adversity—including a bizarre interception that was tipped into the hands of Ohio State's defense—showed growth that Texas quarterbacks have lacked in recent big-game situations.
"He kind of nickeled and dimed and scraped and clawed, and I think he emerges with a lot of street cred," Ketchum said. "It wasn't clean, it wasn't the prettiest, but by the end of the game on Saturday, it did feel like Arch Manning had taken at least a step forward."
Looking ahead to Texas' matchup against UTSA and the upcoming SEC schedule, Ketchum emphasized the importance of building momentum and establishing chemistry between Manning and his key targets.
"Before they get to Knoxville, I want to see Arch and Cam playing some pitch and catch," Ketchum said, highlighting the need to feature Coleman more prominently in the offense. "This team does look a little different than it has in years past, and it's not so hard to put your thumb on what exactly it is. They're not committing penalties, they're better in the red zone, they beat Ohio State. There are signs that this is definitely a different team."
The Thing About Sports can be heard on Talk 1370 every Saturday at 9am and is available anytime on Talk1370.com.
