What Happened to Arch Manning? Latest Injury Update After Texas’ OT Win

Texas quarterback Arch Manning is officially in the concussion protocol after taking a hit to the back of his head during the Longhorns’ overtime victory at Mississippi State on Saturday, October 25. Manning did not participate in practice on Monday, October 27, and his status for this weekend’s game against Vanderbilt remains uncertain as he undergoes medical evaluation.

According to team officials, the decision on Manning’s availability will depend entirely on the medical staff’s clearance, following the NCAA-mandated concussion protocol. The Longhorns have prepared contingency plans should their star quarterback be sidelined.

Arch Manning Injury Details and What Happened vs. Mississippi State

The injury occurred on the first play of overtime when Manning scrambled for a 13-yard gain. As he began to slide, he was driven into the turf, and the back of his helmet hit the ground hard. He immediately exited the field under his own power, heading to the medical tent for evaluation. Texas finished the game with their backup quarterback, who led the team to a decisive overtime win.

Before the injury, Manning was having his strongest game of the season, throwing for 346 yards, three touchdowns, one interception, and adding a rushing score. His performance fueled Texas’ comeback from a double-digit deficit and kept the team’s SEC hopes alive.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed that Manning remains in the concussion protocol and is being evaluated daily. The team will continue to monitor his progress, with updates expected closer to the Vanderbilt matchup. For now, the backup quarterback will continue to take first-team reps during practice.

How the Concussion Protocol Works for NCAA Football Players

The NCAA concussion management plan includes several stages before a player can return to action:

• Symptom-limited rest: The player is monitored for headaches, dizziness, and other concussion-related symptoms.
• Light aerobic activity: Gentle exercise such as stationary biking or light jogging begins once symptoms subside.
• Sport-specific exercise: Football-related activities resume without contact.
• Non-contact practice: The athlete returns to full-speed drills without contact.
• Full clearance: After passing cognitive and physical tests, medical staff authorizes return to full play.

If symptoms return during any stage, the player is moved back to the previous phase. This process ensures player safety, especially for high-profile athletes like Manning, whose long-term health remains a priority.

What Manning’s Status Means for Texas

If Arch Manning is unavailable, Texas will likely rely more heavily on its running game and short passing routes. Expect the offensive game plan to include quick reads, screens, and designed rollouts to protect the quarterback. Manning’s absence could also test the team’s rhythm, as his connection with key receivers has been central to the offense’s recent success.

Still, Texas’ resilience against Mississippi State showed their depth. The coaching staff emphasized that the team’s focus remains on safety and performance, not rushing Manning back too soon.

Manning’s recovery will be closely monitored throughout the week, and his potential return against Vanderbilt will depend on clearing every medical step without setbacks. For now, Texas is balancing optimism with caution as they aim to protect both their season and their young quarterback’s future.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Arch Manning against Mississippi State?

He suffered a head injury on the first play of overtime after being tackled while sliding. He was evaluated immediately and entered concussion protocol.

Q2: Is Arch Manning playing against Vanderbilt?

His status is uncertain. He must clear the full concussion protocol before returning. The decision will depend on medical clearance later in the week.

Q3: How serious is a concussion for football players?

Concussions vary in severity, but all require caution. Players can only return after symptoms subside and medical experts approve full contact.

Q4: Who replaced Arch Manning during the Mississippi State game?

The Texas backup quarterback finished the game and led the winning overtime drive after Manning’s exit.

Q5: When will Texas update Arch Manning’s injury status?

Team updates are expected later in the week, likely by Thursday or Friday, once medical evaluations progress.