Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Get Brutal Honest About Arch Manning’s Accuracy Issues

Arch Manning’s much-anticipated 2025 debut for the Texas Longhorns fell short of expectations.

In Saturday’s 14-7 defeat to the Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus, Manning showed flashes of potential with both his passing and running, but the overall showing was underwhelming. He completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception, and added 38 rushing yards on 10 carries.

At Monday’s weekly press conference, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed Manning’s performance, highlighting concerns about his accuracy.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian pointed to technical issues in Arch Manning’s footwork and mechanics as a key factor behind several missed throws in the Longhorns’ 14-7 loss to Ohio State.

“There were a couple of instances on crossing routes where he didn’t set his feet properly before delivering the ball,” Sarkisian said. “That led to him throwing with more of a sidearm motion, which isn’t natural for him.”

Manning’s most noticeable misfires came during critical moments late in the game. He overthrew Ryan Wingo on a short crossing route in the red zone during the fourth quarter, a drive that ended with Texas turning the ball over on downs. On the team’s final possession, Manning missed a short pass to Jack Endries, then threw behind Wingo again on a 3rd-and-5 crossing route. That sequence led to another failed fourth-down attempt, sealing the win for Ohio State.

Sarkisian outlined what the team will focus on to help Manning sharpen his accuracy moving forward.

“If he can get his feet and shoulders aligned, that will help improve his accuracy,” he explained. “But a big part of it is also trusting the progression. On crossing routes, we don’t stare down the receiver—we read the defenders and trust that the receiver will arrive at the right spot. I think he started looking too early for the crosser, which threw off his alignment and led to some off-target throws.”

Sarkisian also noted that it’s all part of the growing process. “It’s about developing that trust with receivers in real game situations—not in practice, not against the scout team. Against top defenses, the windows are tight, and these moments are valuable learning experiences.”

Manning and the Longhorns will have a chance to bounce back this Saturday when they host San Jose State at 11 a.m. CT in Austin.