Arch Manning extends UT's lead over Mississippi State with beautiful TD throw
Arch Manning gave Texas a multi-score lead going into the half with a 50-yard touchdown throw against Mississippi State on Saturday.
Manning faced un-blocked pressure off the edge, but still had the accuracy to fire a perfect throw Deandre Moore Jr. over the top of the Bulldogs’ defense.
The score gave Texas a 14-6 lead over Mississippi State going into the break. Here’s a replay:
OH MY 😱@ArchManning ➡️ @DeandreMooreJr pic.twitter.com/Suem9u2HkX
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) September 28, 2024
That throw came on 3rd and 9, so anything less than a first down on that play would have likely resulted in a 1-score game at the break.
Despite the relatively low scoring output from Texas, it was a good half of football for Manning. He completed 15-of-19 passes for 202 yards and that touchdown pass to Moore.
The issue for Texas’ offense was in the running game. The Longhorns were unable to establish the run, going for just 10 yards on 7 attempts before the break. Texas also lost a fumble in the first half.
This is the second straight start for Manning as he steps in for the injured Quinn Ewers. It’s unclear how much longer Ewers will be out for, but Texas does have an open date coming up in Week 6. The Longhorns will face Oklahoma in Dallas in Week 7 on Oct. 12.
I seriously expected more dominance out of Texas. They seemed sort of flat. MSU is not good. Looks like Manning tweaked a groin muscle (based upon his pushing on his upper leg), so I wouldn’t be surprised at a switch (back) at QB, lest it heals over their bye week. I’m not convinced this is the No1 team.