The Texas Longhorns formally have trigger for concern.
Whereas quarterback Arch Manning’s struggles two weeks in the past at Related Press No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes had been straightforward to clarify, Saturday’s efficiency in opposition to the UTEP Miners was alarming, a troubling signal two weeks earlier than Texas opens SEC play.
The Longhorns had been hardly threatened taking part in the Miners, but it surely’s arduous to think about them being aggressive in opposition to the convention’s finest if Manning would not make important enhancements in a rush.
Arch Manning continues to underwhelm in his fifth collegiate begin
Manning’s first half was as poor as his numbers point out. He entered halftime 5-of-16 for 69 yards (4.3 yards per try) and an interception whereas including two speeding touchdowns.
Regardless of his rocky efficiency, Related Press No. 7 Texas (2-1) gained, 27-10. However Manning did not construct a lot constructive momentum within the third and fourth quarters, ending the sport finishing 44 p.c of his cross makes an attempt (11-of-25) for 114 yards, one landing and one interception. The Longhorns offense sputtered in two goal-to-go conditions, having to accept discipline targets, which saved the sport shut.
Texas is fortunate to have performed an inferior opponent from Convention USA, arguably faculty soccer’s worst convention, the place its deficiencies had been extra simply masked. Texas should not be challenged in opposition to Sam Houston (0-3), additionally CUSA, in Week 4, both.
However SEC competitors seems way more daunting. The Longhorns open their convention schedule in opposition to the Florida Gators. Whereas Florida (1-1) has its personal issues, a visit to The Swamp in Gainesville isn’t a straightforward activity. Texas follows that with the Pink River Rivalry in opposition to No. 13 Oklahoma Sooners (3-0).
Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer has been glorious this season, and primarily based on how the Texas offense has functioned with Manning, it possible will not be capable of preserve tempo in a shootout. If Manning cannot transfer the ball effectively in opposition to groups like UTEP, what probability does he have of getting the job executed in opposition to the SEC?
For a crew with championship aspirations, Manning’s struggles are much more regarding. The Longhorns will want extra from their younger, unproven quarterback going ahead to dwell as much as their lofty expectations. Primarily based on what we have seen to this point, that is removed from assured.
