Arch Manning Faces Critical SEC Road Test Against Mississippi State

Texas quarterback Arch Manning leads the No. 22 Longhorns into a pivotal SEC road game this Saturday. The matchup against Mississippi State in Starkville is set for 3:15 PM Central Time. This game represents a major test for the young quarterback and his struggling team.

Both teams enter with something to prove after frustrating starts to the 2025 season. For Manning, it is his first true road start in the notoriously loud SEC environment.

Texas’s Season Hangs in the Balance

The Longhorns began the year with College Football Playoff aspirations. Arch Manning was a preseason Heisman Trophy candidate for many analysts. The team’s outlook has dimmed significantly since a 14-7 loss to Ohio State.

Manning has completed 60% of his passes for 1,449 yards this season. He has thrown 12 touchdowns against 5 interceptions. His mobility has added 193 rushing yards and 5 scores on the ground.

In Power 4 conference games, Manning has struggled. His sole positive touchdown-to-interception ratio came in the Oklahoma victory. In other major conference matchups, he has failed to break even.

The offense overall ranks poorly in key categories. According to Teamrankings.com, Texas is 86th in red zone scoring. They rank 81st in third-down conversion rate. On fourth down, they are a dismal 107th nationally.

Mississippi State Aims for Season-Defining Upset

The Bulldogs have already doubled their win total from the previous season. Head coach Jeff Lebby has the program showing clear improvement. Letting several winnable games slip away remains a concern.

Quarterback Blake Shapen has completed 67% of his passes for 1,525 yards. He has thrown 9 touchdowns against 5 interceptions. His best performance came in an upset win over then-No. 12 Arizona State.

The Bulldogs’ defense features a ball-hawking secondary. They have recorded 10 interceptions this season. Safety Brylan Lanier leads the team with 3 picks.

Mississippi State ranks 7th nationally in forcing opponent interceptions. Their red zone defense is less stout, ranking 75th. Opponents convert over 85% of their red zone opportunities against the Bulldogs.

A Hostile Environment Awaits in Starkville

This game marks Arch Manning’s first true road start in the SEC. The Starkville environment is famously difficult for visiting teams. Cowbells will be ringing throughout the contest, creating communication challenges.

Mississippi State’s defense presents a specific threat. Their secondary is adept at forcing turnovers and covering tightly. Manning will need to make precise throws into small windows.

If Manning struggles with his accuracy, it could be a long afternoon. The Bulldogs’ defense ranks 101st against the run, however. This could provide Texas opportunities on the ground.

Can Texas’s Offense Find Its Rhythm?

The Longhorns have yet to put together a complete offensive performance. Their running game has been inconsistent all season. Running back Quintrevion Wisner averages just 3.8 yards per carry.

Establishing the run game early will be crucial for Texas. Success on the ground would take pressure off Manning. It would also help quiet the hostile crowd.

For Mississippi State, protecting the football is paramount. Quarterback Blake Shapen has thrown an interception in each of his SEC games. Giving Texas extra possessions could prove disastrous.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Arch Manning’s record as a starter?

Manning has a 5-2 record as Texas’s starting quarterback this season. His performances have been inconsistent against Power 4 competition. The team’s offense has struggled to score in several games.

How has Mississippi State’s defense performed this season?

The Bulldogs have been strong against the pass, recording 10 interceptions. Their run defense has been vulnerable, allowing 181 yards per game. They rank 7th nationally in forcing opponent interceptions.

What are the stakes for Texas in this game?

A loss would effectively eliminate Texas from playoff contention. It would also increase scrutiny on Arch Manning’s development. The Longhorns need this win to keep their SEC championship hopes alive.

How important is the running game for both teams?

Establishing the run is crucial for Texas to ease pressure on Manning. Mississippi State may rely heavily on running back Davon Booth. Both teams rank outside the top 50 in rushing offense nationally.

What time does the Texas vs Mississippi State game start?

The game kicks off at 3:15 PM Central Time on Saturday. It will be broadcast on national television. Starkville’s Davis Wade Stadium will host the contest.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, Associated Press, Sports Illustrated, CBS Sports, Teamrankings.com