Three weeks into the 2025 season, Arch Manning and Texas' offense are still searching for consistency. Saturday's game against UTEP offered another look at his growth; while there were some flashes, plenty of questions remain after this performance.
Texas did win 27-10, but Manning’s individual play still shows a combination of promise and frustration.
Here's his quarterback report card for Week 3:
Stat Line
Passing: 11/25, 114 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Rushing: 9 carries, 51 yards, 2 TDs (5.7 avg)
The Good
Mobility: Manning’s mobility remains a valuable asset in his skill set. At 6’4”, 220 pounds, he demonstrates the ability to absorb contact and gain yards. His effectiveness on designed runs and scrambles contributed to the offense quite a bit in week 3. His running ability provided an alternate option for an offense still seeking consistency in the passing game.
Pocket Awareness: Manning showed signs of comfort in sensing pressure, adjusting in the pocket, and prolonging plays. While not yet entirely consistent, these actions indicate progress. In the current era, play extension is critical, and Manning is beginning to demonstrate that ability.
The Concerns
Mechanics & Rhythm: The passing game displayed ongoing challenges. Manning missed 10 consecutive throws in the first half and did not find a steady rhythm. His mechanics and footwork require further development, which was reflected in the statistical results. He utilized a sidearm throwing motion, and his feet were not consistently aligned with his reads.
Red zone struggles: Texas created opportunities but failed to convert some into scores. Manning’s decision-making in tight spaces is developing, and this was evident against UTEP’s defense.
Turnovers: The interception was avoidable and contributed to disrupted drives. Reducing turnovers represents a necessary area for improvement. On this play, Manning threw across his body to the opposite side of the field, which violates established quarterback guidelines.
By the Numbers
Texas won, but statistical analysis highlights areas for further attention:
- The offense only scored 27 points, a figure below typical SEC standards.
- The Longhorns averaged 4.4 yards per play compared to UTEP’s 5.4.
- Third-down efficiency was 5/18, and penalties (7 for 78 yards) disrupted momentum.
- On fourth down, Texas converted 2 of 5 attempts.
This isn’t all on Manning, but as the quarterback, the spotlight is on him. Texas fans are waiting for him to take the next step — becoming “the quarterback.”
Manning’s week 3 performance was up-and-down. His mobility and pocket awareness provide a spark, while inconsistent passing limits the offense's effectiveness. The ceiling is still high. But until Manning finds rhythm and sharpens his decision-making and mechanics, Texas will be stuck in the middle ground between “good” and “great.”
The good news is that these issues are fixable. If Manning improves his mechanics and eliminates mistakes, his present frustrations could become his future strengths. Week 3 is another reminder that the Manning project is still in progress.
Question of the year: Is Manning dealing with an injury?
Speaking from personal experience, he may or may not be, but he can still play. What that means is this: Arm and shoulder injuries creep up when quarterbacks least expect them. It's usually caused by poor mechanics combined with overuse of the arm. There is an apparent discomfort for him. Is it fixable? Yes, but the quarterback coach needs to recognize that discomfort and communicate with the head coach.
Was this a step forward or a red flag for Texas? Only time will tell.