Quarterback Arch Manning has not had the season many expected from him for the No. 20-ranked Texas Longhorns. He entered the year as the preseason favorite to win the Heisman Trophy and the near-consensus frontrunner to be the first pick in the 2026 NFL draft. However, the season has not played out that way. He will not win the Heisman, and it is highly unlikely that he will enter the NFL draft after this season.
To make matters worse for Manning and the Longhorns, he took a hit late in last week’s game against Mississippi State and appeared to hit his helmet on the turf. He needed help to get off the field and immediately went to the injury tent.
Arch Manning hurt running the ball in OT #Texas pic.twitter.com/mPcGoVkcOm
— Connie Carberg (@ConnieScouts) October 26, 2025
It was later revealed that Manning went into concussion protocol and did not practice on Monday.
Arch Manning is in concussion protocol and did not practice Monday morning, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said.
— Grace Raynor (@gmraynor) October 27, 2025
As a result, Manning’s status for Saturday’s game against No. 9-ranked Vanderbilt has been in doubt. However, Manning was able to practice with the team on Wednesday and Thursday but remained in concussion protocol.
Fortunately for the Longhorns, Manning was officially removed from the injury report on Friday after being listed as questionable all week. He is now set to play against Vanderbilt on Saturday.
Arch Manning and Texas Play a Critical Game Against Vanderbilt on Saturday
Arch Manning and the Longhorns have struggled this season and now find themselves in a position to miss the College Football Playoff. If the season ended today, they would not qualify. However, with a strong finish, they could still make the Playoff and potentially even play in the SEC championship game.
The Longhorns have won their past three games, including getting a win over No. 18-ranked Oklahoma on Oct. 11. The Longhorns will now need to go out on Saturday and get a win over a Top 10 opponent in Vanderbilt. With a win, they would likely vault themselves close to the Top 10 in the nation. That would give them a chance to qualify for the College Football Playoff, but it will not be easy, as the Commodores are a proven opponent this year.
Read More:
Steve Sarkisian Offers Crucial Arch Manning Injury Update Ahead of Vanderbilt Showdown in Week 10
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
