Arch Manning has fans talking Heisman Trophy in 2026 after 4-TD performance in Citrus Bowl
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The upcoming offseason will likely carry with it a similar theme to that of 2025’s, albeit with a different tone this time around.
Arch Manning figures to enter the 2026 campaign as one of the frontrunners to earn the Heisman Trophy, and that’s primarily because of the way in which he finished off this season.
Receiving plenty of hype for the sport’s highest honor prior to ’25, Manning struggled out of the gates before finding a rhythm over the final half of the year.
And in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Saturday, Manning saved his best for last. The now-seasoned starter accounted for 367 yards of total offense while leading the Longhorns in rushing and finding the end zone 4 times.
After Manning iced the 41-27 Texas victory over Michigan with a stunning 60-yard touchdown scamper in the fourth quarter, fans and analysts across the nation were ready to proclaim him the sport’s future yet again.
And of course, noted Texas superfan Matthew McConaughey shared his thoughts on his school’s trajectory following the win.
Some even likened Manning to a former Longhorn legend…
Others, however, are preparing for a heavy dose of déjà vu throughout the 2026 offseason.
Following the performance, Manning opted to don attire that was fitting for his night.
Parker is currently the sports editor for the Enterprise-Journal in McComb, Mississippi. He's a graduate from Mizzou who has experience covering the Tiger football and basketball beats for SB Nation, and he's worked for a variety of sports news outlets in the past.
