Arch Manning not looking ready for SEC play after dud vs. UTEP

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 simple to elucidate, Saturday’s efficiency towards 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, however it’s onerous to think about them being aggressive towards the convention’s greatest if Manning does 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) received, 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 move 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 stored the sport shut.

Texas is fortunate to have performed an inferior opponent from Convention USA, arguably school soccer’s worst convention, the place its deficiencies had been extra simply masked. Texas should not be challenged towards Sam Houston (0-3), additionally CUSA, in Week 4, both.

However SEC competitors seems way more daunting. The Longhorns open their convention schedule towards 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 Crimson River Rivalry towards 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 seemingly will not have the ability to preserve tempo in a shootout. If Manning cannot transfer the ball effectively towards groups like UTEP, what probability does he have of getting the job carried out towards the SEC?

For a group with championship aspirations, Manning’s struggles are much more regarding. The Longhorns will want extra from their younger, unproven quarterback going ahead to reside as much as their lofty expectations. Based mostly on what we have seen thus far, that is removed from assured.