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 have been straightforward to clarify, Saturday’s efficiency towards the UTEP Miners was alarming, a troubling signal two weeks earlier than Texas opens SEC play.
The Longhorns have been hardly threatened taking part in the Miners, nevertheless it’s onerous to think about them being aggressive towards the convention’s greatest if Manning would not make vital 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 optimistic 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 subject 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 have 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 simple job. Texas follows that with the Purple River Rivalry towards No. 13 Oklahoma Sooners (3-0).
Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer has been wonderful this season, and based mostly on how the Texas offense has functioned with Manning, it doubtless will not be capable of maintain tempo in a shootout. If Manning cannot transfer the ball effectively towards groups like UTEP, what likelihood does he have of getting the job achieved towards 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 reside as much as their lofty expectations. Based mostly on what we have seen thus far, that is removed from assured.
