From Newsweek · Rowan Fisher-Shotton · · 1m 40s
Arch Manning's Ohio State win doesn't guarantee draft stardom
Texas quarterback Arch Manning led a stunning fourth-quarter comeback against top-seeded Ohio State, but NFL scouts say he still has plenty to prove.
In brief
Texas quarterback Arch Manning led a stunning fourth-quarter comeback against top-seeded Ohio State, but NFL scouts say he still has plenty to prove. One impressive win, even against a powerhouse, doesn't make a quarterback draft-ready; Manning needs consistent complete performances to secure his status as a top pick…
Texas stuns Ohio State in Austin
The Longhorns rallied late to beat the top-seeded Buckeyes, scoring 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter. It was a rematch of last year's season opener, which Ohio State won 14-7 at home.
Manning's stats don't match the moment
He finished 23 of 37 for 195 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, plus 24 rushing yards. Most of his production came in the second half when he led three straight scoring drives.
McShay sees a work in progress
NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay said Manning is still developing and not a finished product. At halftime, McShay thought Manning wasn't ready, but the second half showed a quarterback who refused to lose.
“He's still developing. He's not a finished product.”
Mobility and pressure moments matter most
McShay noted that Manning's ability to extend plays, make throws under pressure, and hang tough in critical moments is ultimately how quarterbacks are graded. These traits emerged in the second half.
“those moments.”
Emerging QBs add pressure to Manning
Other quarterbacks like Darian Mensah and CJ Carr are emerging as prospects. Manning needs to string together complete performances to stay on track as a potential first overall pick in the 2027 draft.
Plenty of chances to build momentum
Texas faces UTSA next, then SEC matchups against Tennessee, Oklahoma, Florida, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State. If Manning carries his second-half form forward, his stock could rise significantly.
What to remember
One impressive win, even against a powerhouse, doesn't make a quarterback draft-ready; Manning needs consistent complete performances to secure his status as a top pick.
