Stephen A. Smith questions Steve Sarkisian and Arch Manning ahead of Ohio State game

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 4:39 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Stephen A. Smith questions Steve Sarkisian and Arch Manning ahead of Ohio State game
Summary

Texas quarterback Arch Manning recorded four passing touchdowns in a 59-7 victory over Texas State, though he also committed an interception before halftime. Following the win, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith criticized head coach Steve Sarkisian for his management of the team and handling of Manning. Smith questioned whether Sarkisian showed negligence regarding other areas of the program last season due to a heavy focus on the quarterback. Despite the recent win, the Longhorns face scrutiny regarding their readiness for upcoming competition. Texas is scheduled to host the Ohio State Buckeyes at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium on September 12. Paul Finebaum noted that while Manning faces pressure to perform following his struggles in a previous loss to Ohio State, Sarkisian believes that experience proved beneficial for the young quarterback's development.

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By the Numbers
  • Texas defeated Texas State 59-7 in their recent outing.
  • Arch Manning threw four touchdown passes and one interception against Texas State.
  • Ohio State travels to Austin on September 12 for a matchup against Texas.
  • Stephen A. Smith publicly questioned Steve Sarkisian's coaching approach regarding Arch Manning.
  • Manning previously struggled against Ohio State in a 14-7 loss in Columbus.
Latest Updates
  • 4:39 PMYahoo SportsTrouble Brews for Arch Manning's Texas as ESPN's Stephen A. Smith Delivers Blunt Verdict
What they're saying
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The ghosts of Arch Manning’s disappointing season seemed to disappear the moment Texas took the field against Texas State, defeating them 59-7. The Longhorns’ young quarterback was in command with four passing touchdowns.

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