The prospect of Arch Manning potentially influencing the outcome of the 2025 game between Texas and Ohio State has sparked considerable debate among college football fans. While opinions on whether Manning’s presence would have led to a Texas victory remain split, analyzing the situation from multiple angles can offer a deeper understanding of the possible impact. A game between two elite programs like Texas and Ohio State is always a spectacle, and the inclusion of a highly touted quarterback such as Arch Manning raises the stakes even further.
Background Context
Before diving into the hypothetical scenario, it’s important to establish a basic understanding of the context leading into the matchup. Texas, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, has made significant strides in recent years, steadily regaining relevance in the competitive world of college football. Similarly, Ohio State, led by Ryan Day, remains a powerhouse in the Big Ten with consistent high-level performances, producing some of the top talent in the nation, particularly at the quarterback position.
Both teams had rosters filled with talent, and the stakes for this game were high, with playoff aspirations on the line. Texas was led by a strong group of skill players, including running backs and wide receivers, and a defense that had shown flashes of excellence. On the other hand, Ohio State boasted a dynamic offense, led by one of the top quarterbacks in the nation at the time.
Arch Manning: A Brief Introduction
Arch Manning, the grandson of legendary quarterbacks Archie and Peyton Manning, and nephew of Super Bowl champion Eli Manning, is one of the most highly anticipated quarterback prospects in recent memory. The recruitment of Arch Manning was a spectacle in itself, as the Manning name carries immense weight in college football circles. After committing to Texas, expectations for Manning were sky-high, with many predicting that his arrival would signal the resurgence of the Texas Longhorns as a perennial title contender.
Despite his potential, Manning faced significant competition for the starting role. The quarterback room at Texas, led by Quinn Ewers in the 2025 season, was deep with talent. This made Manning’s role as a freshman more of a “watch and learn” experience rather than an immediate starting opportunity. However, even as a backup, Manning’s presence was expected to bring a level of excitement and future promise to the Longhorns’ offense.
The Hypothetical Impact of Arch Manning’s Presence
Now, let’s explore the hypothetical scenario: What if Arch Manning had been on the field for Texas during their game against Ohio State?
1. Quarterback Play and Offensive Flow
The most obvious place to start is with Manning’s potential impact on the quarterback position. While Quinn Ewers had shown flashes of brilliance, his performance in high-pressure situations was still a work in progress. Ewers was a talented quarterback, but many fans and analysts had questioned his consistency, particularly in games that required sustained excellence.
If Manning had started or played a significant role, his poise and football IQ, honed under the tutelage of his legendary family members, could have been a game-changer. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and manage the game in a calm and collected manner might have given Texas a more stable presence under center.
Manning’s high school tape was filled with highlights of both deep throws and impeccable decision-making, and his ability to manage the offense efficiently would likely have kept the Texas offense in rhythm. With a strong offensive line and talented skill players at his disposal, Manning’s presence could have opened up more opportunities for the Texas offense to sustain drives, avoid turnovers, and put points on the board.
2. Playmaking Ability and Big-Game Experience
Though Manning had yet to see action at the collegiate level, his pedigree alone would have likely elevated the level of play around him. The Manning family has long been synonymous with big-game performances, and Arch’s leadership and composure in crunch-time situations would have been invaluable for Texas, particularly in a high-stakes game like the one against Ohio State.
Quarterbacks with Manning’s background tend to thrive in big games, drawing from years of mental preparation and understanding of the pressure that comes with being under the microscope. His ability to execute in clutch moments could have been the difference between a Texas win and a narrow loss, especially if the game was close in the fourth quarter.
3. Competition Against Ohio State’s Defense
Ohio State has traditionally boasted a formidable defense, one that features top-tier athletes and a coach in Jim Knowles who is known for his aggressive and creative defensive schemes. Manning’s presence could have been a stabilizing factor against this pressure, allowing Texas to better handle the defensive looks that Ohio State threw at them.
Manning’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions would have been critical in exploiting any vulnerabilities in Ohio State’s defense. While Quinn Ewers is also capable of making big throws, Manning’s poise and ability to quickly process information might have allowed Texas to move the ball more efficiently and effectively, especially in tight spots.
4. Development of a Balanced Offensive Attack
Having Arch Manning on the field would likely have altered Texas’ offensive approach. Known for his versatility and accuracy, Manning could have helped establish a more balanced offense, keeping Ohio State’s defense on its toes. By effectively mixing the run game and the pass game, Manning could have ensured that Texas maintained offensive balance, avoiding the one-dimensionality that sometimes plagued the Longhorns in previous seasons.
In contrast, Ohio State would have been forced to account for the full spectrum of Texas’ offensive weaponry. With a quarterback like Manning under center, Texas would have had a more diverse offense, increasing their chances of exploiting mismatches and maximizing opportunities to score.
5. Impact on the Texas Defense and Special Teams
While Arch Manning’s presence would undoubtedly have impacted the Texas offense, his indirect influence on the defense and special teams should not be understated. If Manning had been able to move the ball effectively and sustain drives, it would have given the Longhorn defense more rest and reduced the amount of pressure on them throughout the game.
By controlling the clock and keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field, Texas’ defense could have been fresher and more focused when it was needed most. The added confidence that Manning would have provided the entire team could have galvanized the defense to perform better in critical situations.
6. The intangibles: Leadership and Confidence
One of the most important aspects of Arch Manning’s potential impact on the game is the leadership he brings to the table. The Manning family is known for its football acumen and ability to elevate the players around them. Arch’s leadership, even as a freshman, would have likely inspired confidence throughout the Texas roster.
This intangible factor—confidence—can be the difference in high-stakes matchups. If Manning had been on the field, the Texas players might have been more relaxed, more focused, and more willing to take calculated risks in order to win. The presence of a quarterback with his pedigree and experience, even in a limited capacity, could have boosted the team’s morale and belief that they could win against a team like Ohio State.
