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By Reice Shipley
Contributing Sports Writer
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For much of the 2025 season, Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning has failed to meet the lofty expectations placed on him. However, on Saturday, Manning showed everyone what he is capable of in a monumental win over the No. 9-ranked Vanderbilt Commodores.
Manning came into Saturday's matchup after his best performance to date against Mississippi State in Week 9, throwing for 346 yards and three touchdowns in a 45-38 overtime victory. Still, there were areas to improve on, as Manning threw an interception that helped keep the Bulldogs in the game.
The former top recruit was able to build on this performance in Week 10. Playing mistake-free football, Manning was able to help lead Texas to a 34-31 victory, throwing for 328 yards and three passing touchdowns in the process.
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For the Longhorns, the win was a massive one to potentially keep their CFP hopes alive. However, the individual performance from Arch was arguably equally as important for his perception around college football.
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In the second quarter of Saturday's game, ESPN play-by-play broadcaster Sean McDonough addressed all of the criticism Manning has faced this season, suggesting that his play on Saturday would go a long way in reigniting his candidacy for the Heisman Trophy.
"Arch Manning was the preseason (Heisman) favorite," said McDonough. "He's fallen completely off the board. He's on target again and he might be reigniting candidacy with this performance!"
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Heisman Trophy candidates have always historically had big moments that helped seal their candidacy. Saturday's game may very well serve as just that for Manning.
While some may never get some of Manning's struggles early in the season out of their head, the past few weeks have helped show that Texas may truly be a top contender in the SEC moving forward.
Things won't get any easier for Manning or the Longhorns, as they will face off against the No. 5-ranked Georgia Bulldogs in Week 11 and the No. 3-ranked Texas A&M Aggies in Week 13.
With that being said, if Arch is able to maintain this level of play moving forward, Manning may squarely find himself in the Heisman conversation as Texas continues to grow as a team.
For more on the Texas Longhorns, Arch Manning, and all things college football, head to Newsweek Sports.
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