Arch Manning faced boos from his own supporters at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium as Texas narrowly defeated UTEP 27-10. The quarterback completed just 11 of 25 passes for 114 yards and a touchdown, with a string of 10 consecutive incompletions in the second quarter and an end zone interception. Manning admitted he must improve, saying, 'I've got to play better. I know I'm better than this.'
The 21-year-old, who entered the season as a Heisman Trophy favourite, has struggled since a season-opening loss at Ohio State. Through three games, he has completed only 55% of passes, well below expectations for a player from America's most famous football family. Despite waiting two seasons behind Quinn Ewers and showing flashes of brilliance, Manning has looked rushed and inaccurate in Steve Sarkisian's offence.
Coach Sarkisian urged patience, stating, 'I know there's a lot of football in him that's high-level football. Our job as coaches is to work him towards that.' Teammates remain supportive, with offensive lineman Trevor Goosby saying, 'He's still a great quarterback.' However, Manning's recurring struggles raise concerns about Texas's upcoming SEC schedule and their title credentials.
