Arch Manning Powers Texas to 41-27 Citrus Bowl Win Against Michigan

Post by : Mina Rahman

In the Citrus Bowl, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian faced uncertainty as his team played without nine starters due to injuries and transfers. However, with vital performances from Christian Carter and Kaliq Lockett, No. 14 Texas triumphed over No. 18 Michigan with a score of 41-27 on Wednesday.

Quarterback Arch Manning shone brightly, delivering a thrilling performance that led the Longhorns to their tenth win this season. He passed for 221 yards and two touchdowns, including a well-placed 30-yard pass to Lockett, who capitalized on increased playtime due to injuries. Manning also excelled on the ground, rushing for 155 yards and scoring twice, engineering two crucial fourth-down conversions that paved the way for Carter’s touchdown run. Carter, stepping into a starting role after the loss of the top running backs, showcased his talents with 105 yards on 20 carries.

Sarkisian commended his team’s tenacity, stating, "We played without nine starters, but that created new opportunities. That’s the culture we have here." Texas rebounded impressively from their playoff disappointment, reflecting the potential they showcased as the AP’s preseason No. 1 team.

Manning’s standout moment came late in the match with a dazzling 60-yard touchdown run, granting Texas a 38-27 lead and marking a pivotal moment in the game. His remarkable efforts secured him the Citrus Bowl MVP accolade and drew parallels to his uncle Peyton Manning’s exceptional Citrus Bowl outing for Tennessee in 1997.

On the other hand, Michigan's situation was complicated ahead of the game, facing turmoil after the firing and subsequent arrest of former coach Sherrone Moore. The team is currently under NCAA probation, a situation that could cost the school $30 million. New head coach Kyle Whittingham was present at the Citrus Bowl as he transitions into his role.

Interim coach Biff Poggi, experiencing his first loss, acknowledged his players’ efforts and expressed faith in Whittingham's guidance of the squad moving forward.

Despite falling to 9-4, Michigan battled valiantly even with key defenders absent. Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood kept the game competitive, throwing for 199 yards, two touchdowns, and adding a rushing score. However, Texas defensive back Ty’Anthony Smith’s two interceptions late in the game proved detrimental to Michigan’s chance for a comeback.

On the rushing front, Bryson Kuzdzal led Michigan with 82 yards over 20 carries, successfully converting several fourth-down attempts.

For Texas, freshman receiver Clark made significant contributions, exceeding his seasonal reception average in this crucial match.

The game was marred by a total of 21 penalties from both teams, with a particularly damaging blindside block penalty by Michigan near Texas’s 10-yard line, resulting in a turnover and shifting momentum firmly in favor of the Longhorns.