Arch Manning, Texas earns victory despite poor play

Arch Manning struggled during the Texas Longhorns’ win over the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday and was criticized on social media for his inability to take his game to the next level.

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

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

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

“The defense had our backs all night,” he said, via the Houston Chronicle. “At the end of the day, I have to play better. We have to start faster. Obviously it was a tough night for the offense.”

Texas had just eight first downs and 179 total yards of 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 thrilled to get the win.

“What a victory,” Sargsyan said. “I’ve always said it. 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 play 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 is going on a road trip to Mississippi State next weekend.