Ex-Browns LB Makes Feelings Very Clear on QB Arch Manning After Texas’ Brutal Shutout vs Ohio State: “Not Gonna Act Like He Can’t Play”

Arch Manning’s third career start came under brutal circumstances—on the road in Columbus, facing No. 3 Ohio State and a defense run by Super Bowl-winning coordinator Matt Patricia. The sophomore quarterback struggled in Texas’ season-opening shutout, completing 17 of 30 passes with missed opportunities on both the first and last drives.

While critics quickly pounced on Manning’s performance, former Browns linebacker and Fox Sports analyst Emmanuel Acho made sure the narrative didn’t spiral. Sharing a clip on X, Acho urged perspective with a rant.

“Texas loses to Ohio State again. But let’s talk about Arch Manning because here’s what we’re not going to do… we’re not going to act like the kid can’t play all of a sudden. Third ever start, on the road versus top two team, reigning national championship team, against the defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia of Ohio State, who won three Super Bowls. I’m not going to act like Arch Manning can’t play.”

I’m sick. Texas loses to Ohio State, again. But let’s talk about Arch Manning, immediately…. pic.twitter.com/04IRLSWN4U

— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) August 30, 2025

Acho acknowledged Manning’s struggles, calling his 17-for-30 line “not good enough.” However, he also pointed out that early-career bumps shouldn’t erase the promise Manning has shown. He also placed some responsibility on Texas HC Steve Sarkisian, noting the coach could have helped by dialing up easier completions to ease his young quarterback into rhythm.

The loss only sharpens questions about whether Arch Manning can steady Texas’ offense moving forward. However, Acho’s words remind us that development is rarely linear and that one tough night against an elite opponent doesn’t erase talent.

Dez Bryant Defends Arch Manning and Shedeur Sanders Following Shaky 2025 Storylines

Arch Manning’s 2025 season opener was supposed to be a chance to solidify Texas’ big-stage aspirations. Instead, the quarterback endured a rocky outing, as the Buckeyes’ defense smothered the Longhorns’ attack, handing Steve Sarkisian’s squad a brutal shutout defeat.

While fans pile on Manning and Sanders after the loss, Dez Bryant jumped to the quarterbacks’ defense on X.

“I feel bad for Shedeur Sanders and Arch Manning. All I see down my timeline is hate for each player.. These dudes wanna play football…Allow their play to determine if they are good or not…One game doesn’t define either QB… Both guys have what it takes to be great…I also understand we need talk to sell stories,” the former NFL star wrote.

I feel bad for Shedeur Sanders and Arch Manning…All I see down my timeline is hate for each player.. These dudes wanna play football…Allow their play to determine if they are good or not…One game doesn’t define either QB… Both guys have what it takes to be great…I also…

— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) August 31, 2025

Both Arch Manning in Texas and Shedeur Sanders at Cleveland are struggling with heated debates across football circles. Critics question whether the football prodigies can shoulder the expectations tied to the Manning and Sanders lineage, as supporters call for patience this early in their careers.

Read More:

“Arch Manning Sucks” Trends Online Among Fans As Peyton Manning’s Nephew Has Nightmare Start For Texas

Is Arch Manning Overrated? Breaking Down Hype Around Texas Standout Following Catastrophic Start to First Season as Starter

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