Arch Manning Shines as Texas Outlasts Michigan in Citrus Bowl Thriller

Arch Manning Shines as Texas Outlasts Michigan in Citrus Bowl Thriller

Arch Manning Shines as Texas Outlasts Michigan in Citrus Bowl Thriller

There has been a lot of buzz around the Michigan vs Texas matchup, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. This Citrus Bowl clash turned into a statement game, especially for Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who delivered a performance that felt like a true coming-out moment on the big stage.

This was Manning’s first bowl game start at the college level, and it came against a Michigan team that entered with plenty of emotion and pressure. From the opening kickoff, it was clear both sides were evenly matched. The game stayed tight through the first half, with neither team willing to back down. By halftime, the score was locked at 17-17, and it felt like anything could happen.

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In the second half, the spotlight shifted squarely onto Manning. It was during this stretch that his composure and athleticism really began to separate Texas from Michigan. A touchdown pass to tight end Jack Endries gave Texas a spark, and moments later, Manning used his legs to punch in a 23-yard rushing touchdown. The Longhorns were building momentum, but Michigan refused to fade away.

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood briefly swung the game back in the Wolverines’ favor with a short rushing touchdown, giving Michigan a slim lead early in the fourth quarter. At that moment, it looked like Texas might finally crack. Instead, Manning responded the way elite quarterbacks are expected to. A long, methodical drive was put together, ending with a touchdown pass that reclaimed the lead for Texas.

Then came the play everyone is still talking about. After a costly Michigan interception, Manning took the snap and exploded straight up the middle for a stunning 60-yard touchdown run. That moment felt like the turning point, the instant when the game slipped firmly into Texas’ control. A late field goal sealed the deal, and the final score settled at 41-27.

By the end of the night, Manning had accounted for four total touchdowns and piled up 376 yards of offense. His balance as both a passer and a runner stood out, and it was clear the game had been dictated by his confidence and decision-making. Michigan showed flashes of promise, especially from Underwood, but turnovers proved too costly against a Texas team that capitalized on every opportunity.

When it was all over, this game felt less like just a bowl win and more like a preview of what’s coming. Texas walked away with its third straight 10-win season, while Michigan now looks ahead to a new chapter under fresh leadership. But above all, this night belonged to Arch Manning, and it’s safe to say college football fans are going to be hearing his name a lot more from here on out.

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