Arch Manning Targets Big Month of May to Reset Texas Offense After 10-3 Finish
Texas QB Arch Manning Shares Viral Postgame Embrace With NBA Star Kevin Durant 1
Arch Manning orchestrated a stunning fourth-quarter comeback for the No. 4 Texas Longhorns against top-ranked Ohio State. Trailing 23–3 late in the third quarter, Manning delivered several clutch plays as Texas dramatically turned the game around to secure a 24–23 victory, and the young quarterback made sure to celebrate the memorable comeback with Houston Rockets superstar Kevin Durant.
Arch Manning shares emotional celebration with Kevin Durant after historic comeback
For three quarters on Saturday night, the painful memories of last year’s season-opening nightmare appeared to remain alive inside Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Texas struggled to find answers against top-ranked Ohio State, with the Longhorns looking overwhelmed by the Buckeyes’ relentless defensive front and unable to generate much offensive momentum.
“He’s Not on Netflix All Night”: Inside Arch Manning’s Relentless Preparation for 2026“He’s Not on Netflix All Night”: Inside Arch Manning’s Relentless Preparation for 2026
“He’s Not on Netflix All Night”: Inside Arch Manning’s Relentless Preparation for 2026 (Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)
Then, Manning completely changed the complexion of the game. The young quarterback helped write his name into Texas football history by leading the largest fourth-quarter comeback against an AP No. 1 team in college football history. Fueled by 21 unanswered points, the Longhorns produced an extraordinary turnaround to escape with a dramatic 24–23 victory.
After the final whistle, Manning walked off the field visibly filled with happiness and pride after helping Texas complete one of the most remarkable comebacks in the program’s history. He also shared a memorable moment with Durant, as the two were seen celebrating the victory together with a handshake before exchanging a hug while Manning prepared to leave the field.
Kevin Durant and Arch Manning celebrating after the Texas comeback win. 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/jaDTcBR2ru
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) September 13, 2026
The rematch against Ohio State carried additional personal significance for Manning. When the two teams met to open the 2025 season, Ohio State’s defense relentlessly pressured the young quarterback during Texas’ 14–7 loss. The difficult experience stayed with Manning long after the game, with the quarterback later admitting that the defeat had even given him “nightmares.”
“I’m just so proud of our guys in all three phases,” Manning said. “It wasn’t very pretty, but we found a way to win. That’s what good teams do. We’ve got a bunch of good players. Lot of leaders. It’s going to be a fun night.
“I had nightmares about that game last year. So, we finally got a good win tonight. Gonna have a good night in Austin.”
Early on Saturday, it appeared that history might repeat itself. Manning endured significant pressure for much of the first half, while ESPN’s win probability index gave Ohio State a staggering 98.3% chance of eventually securing the victory.
Despite getting a warning before the game, Manning showcased the development he has made under head coach Steve Sarkisian. He ultimately completed 23 of 37 passing attempts for 196 yards and a touchdown, with two of his most important completions coming on crucial fourth-down situations.
Texas’ 20-point fourth-quarter comeback stands as the largest fourth-quarter rally to defeat an AP No. 1 team, according to Sportradar. With the dramatic victory, the SEC also improved to 2–1 against the Big Ten this season.
More College Football News