![Arch Manning | Skip Bayless [Inset] (Credit: Imagn, IG@skipbayless)](https://collegefootballnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/arch-mannings-rude-awakening-post-08-30-25.jpg "Arch Manning’s Rude Awakening to Post-Quinn Ewers Era Draws 'Concerning' Reaction From Skip Bayless")
Arch Manning’s long-awaited debut as Texas’ starting quarterback against defending national champion Ohio State quickly turned into a trial by fire as he struggled on the field. Naturally, there was a lot of pushback, including some from loud voices like analyst Skip Bayless, as the football prodigy was left unimpressed.
Bayless didn’t hold back while live-tweeting his reaction to the first half.
“Now I better understand why Arch Manning couldn’t beat out Quinn Ewers last year. Arch Manning was wildly inaccurate in that first half (5-10 for 26 yds) and didn’t demonstrate much poise or command. Yes, this is a tough place for a first road start but still … concerning,” Bayless wrote on X.
Now I better understand why Arch Manning couldn’t beat out Quinn Ewers last year. Arch Manning was wildly inaccurate in that first half (5-10 for 26 yds) and didn’t demonstrate much poise or command. Yes, this is a tough place for a first road start but still … concerning.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) August 30, 2025
It wasn’t just Skip Bayless pointing out the red flags. Texas’ offense sputtered throughout the half, with Manning struggling to stretch the field and his longest completion going just seven yards. Analysts noted that Ohio State’s defensive front overwhelmed Texas’ new-look offensive line, while Matt Patricia’s disguised pressures and coverage schemes left Manning looking a step behind.
While nerves and the hostile Columbus crowd certainly played a role, the bigger storyline is whether Manning can settle in and grow into the role after taking over from Quinn Ewers. For now, though, Bayless’ blunt assessment echoes what many Longhorn fans were thinking if Manning’s opening act left more questions than answers.
Emmanuel Acho, Ryan Clark and More React to Arch Manning’s Lackluster Debut
The highly anticipated debut of Arch Manning as Texas’ starting quarterback didn’t go as smoothly as Longhorns fans had hoped. Facing No. 3 Ohio State in a primetime clash in Columbus, Manning and the Texas offense sputtered through the first half, falling behind 7-0 at the break.
Through two quarters, Manning struggled with just 5 of 10 completions for 26 yards with no touchdowns. However, shaky accuracy, pressure from Ohio State’s defensive front, and missed opportunities left analysts questioning his hype.
Among those weighing in was Clark, who didn’t mince words.
“It’s early but right now it’s Sayin over Manning. Looks much more comfortable,” he posted, pointing to Ohio State’s freshman Julian Sayin looking steadier under fire.
It’s early but right now it’s Sayin over Manning. Looks much more comfortable.
— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) August 30, 2025
Acho offered a measured breakdown after the first quarter, writing:
“Both Quarterbacks look nervous (rightfully so). Arch has missed 2 throws pretty badly. Sark is being as aggressive as possible within reason. Both defenses look really good, especially vs the run.”
After 1 quarter:
Both Quarterbacks look nervous (rightfully so). Arch has missed 2 throws pretty badly.
Sark is being as aggressive as possible within reason.
Both defenses look really good, especially vs the run.
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) August 30, 2025
Cowherd gave credit to Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, tweeting:
“Early game ball to Matt Patricia. Arch just doesn’t look comfortable. Sometimes drifting into pressure. He’s just off.”
Early game ball to Matt Patricia. Arch just doesn’t look comfortable. Sometimes drifting into pressure. He’s just off.
— Colin Cowherd (@colincowherd) August 30, 2025
The Buckeyes held their Natty-winning momentum and Manning strugged to settle in and the second half was reduced to a mere test for Manning as Ohio State’s defense dictated the tone.
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