Arch Manning, Texas wins despite poor play

Arch Manning struggled in the Texas Longhorns’ win over the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday and faced criticism on social media for being unable to take his game to the next level.

Manning, who led the Longhorns to a win over No. 6 Oklahoma last week, was 12-of-27 passing for 132 yards. He ran for minus-1 yards on 11 carries. Still, Texas managed to pull out a 16-13 victory thanks to a Mason Shipley field goal in overtime.

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The star quarterback’s numbers weren’t good enough to win over fans.

Manning acknowledged that the defense stepped up to really help pick up the win.

“The defense had our back all night,” he said, via the Houston Chronicle . “At the end of the day, I’ve got to play better. We’ve got to start faster. It was obviously a tough night for the offense.”

Texas had just eight first downs and 179 yards of total offense on 12 drives.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a receiver in the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. (AP Photo/Michael Swensen)

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Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian was ecstatic to pick up the win.

“What a win,” Sarkisian said. “I’ve said it all along. You go on the road at night in the SEC, this league is tough. It’s tough and for us to find a way to win this game tonight.”

Texas quarterback Arch Manning, top, calls a play before a snap in the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against Kentucky, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Lexington, Kentucky. (AP Photo/Michael Swensen)

Texas improved to 5-2 and is 2-1 against SEC opponents. The Longhorns are fifth in the conference. The team has a road trip to Mississippi State next weekend.