Top-Three Showdown: Arch Manning Leads No. 1 Texas Against No. 3 Ohio State in Season Opener
Columbus, Ohio – The 2025 college football season kicked off with one of the most anticipated matchups in recent memory as the No. 1 Texas Longhorns faced off against the No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on Saturday, August 30. The game brought an intense showdown between two blue blood programs, headlined by Texas quarterback Arch Manning and Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith.
The Longhorns entered the game carrying the prestigious preseason No. 1 ranking for the first time in their storied history, while the Buckeyes, reigning national champions, were slight favorites aiming to defend their title on home turf. This setup marked a rare occasion where the preseason top-ranked team, Texas, was an underdog, setting the stage for a highly competitive and eagerly watched contest.
The atmosphere at Ohio Stadium buzzed with excitement as Arch Manning, the star signal-caller with an illustrious football lineage, made his first career road start. Manning is viewed as one of the brightest young talents in college football and was the centerpiece of Texas’ hopes for a championship run this season. Opposite him, Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, a gifted receiver who already has a national championship ring from last year as a freshman, looked to continue his electrifying rise, fueling Buckeyes’ aspirations.
Game Progress and Key Moments
Early in the first quarter, Ohio State struck first with C.J. Donaldson scoring on a powerful two-yard plunge on fourth down, breaking the initial scoreless deadlock. The Buckeyes’ defense, known for its ferocity and aggressiveness—ranking second in the NCAA with 53 sacks in the previous season—applied relentless pressure to Texas’ offense throughout the game.
Texas fought back with Arch Manning completing multiple passes, showcasing his poise under pressure despite the adversarial environment and the Buckeyes’ defensive onslaught. The Longhorns’ running game, led by C. Baxter, also contributed yardage but struggled to consistently penetrate Ohio State’s frontline.
National Spotlight and Broadcasts
This marquee clash was broadcast nationally on FOX’s “Big Noon Kickoff,” drawing significant viewership from college football fans nationwide. Meanwhile, ESPN provided extensive live coverage and in-depth analysis during the game. Notably, famed analyst Lee Corso made his final “College GameDay” appearance at this game, predicting an Ohio State victory from the 50-yard line, adding emotional weight to the event.
Implications and Looking Ahead
With this opener setting the tone for the 2025 season, Texas looks to build on the momentum brought by Arch Manning’s leadership and the team’s top-ranked status. Ohio State, on the other hand, aims to leverage its veteran experience and home advantage to defend its national championship effectively.
As both powerhouse programs wrestle for supremacy in the early days of the season, fans can expect a thrilling battle emblematic of college football’s highest caliber.