The college football world expected the Texas vs. Ohio State game to be all about Arch Manning’s long-awaited debut. Instead, it became a defensive masterclass with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith calling out Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian while praising Ohio State’s $7.5 million defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia.
Why Did Stephen A. Smith Blame Steve Sarkisian for the Loss?
During his postgame reaction, Stephen A. Smith did not hold back on Sarkisian’s role in Texas’ 14-7 loss to the Buckeyes. He made it clear that while Manning struggled, the real problem was Sarkisian’s conservative play-calling.
“I put most of the blame on Sarkisian more so than Arch Manning,” Smith said. “You’ve been around too long to call such a pedestrian game. I was unimpressed, almost to the point where it looked like Sarkisian was protecting Manning instead of coaching him.”
“He was too busy trying to protect Arch Manning as opposed to coaching him.”
—@stephenasmith on Steve Sarkisian’s coaching 😳 pic.twitter.com/CqX7S1cCj6
— First Take (@FirstTake) September 1, 2025
Additionally, Smith argued that Sarkisian got caught up in the hype surrounding Manning, which compromised his game plan. Instead of unleashing the explosive Texas offense, Sarkisian played it safe and allowed Ohio State’s defense to control the game’s tempo.
Manning’s performance reflected these issues: He finished 17-of-30 for 170 yards, one touchdown, and a costly interception. Those numbers fell far short of the Heisman-caliber debut that Longhorns fans were hoping to see.
How Did Matt Patricia’s Defense Dominate Texas?
While Smith criticized Sarkisian, he applauded Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. Once a target of ridicule for his unsuccessful head coaching stints with the Detroit Lions and New England Patriots, Patricia proved his immense value in Columbus.
Ohio State signed Patricia to a three-year, $7.5 million deal, and in his first game, he delivered exactly what head coach Ryan Day needed: a defense that completely neutralized the most hyped quarterback in the country.
Patricia’s scheme forced Manning into uncomfortable throws all night, generating two critical red-zone stops and pressuring Texas into key mistakes. On the other side of the ball, Ohio State’s freshman quarterback Julian Sayin was steady but not spectacular in his first start, finishing with 126 yards and a touchdown. That performance put the burden squarely on Patricia’s defense, and they delivered a flawless performance.
“Matt Patricia reminded Arch Manning what the next level looks like,” Smith said, pointing to how the veteran coach masterfully exposed Manning’s weaknesses.
What Does This Win Mean for Ohio State and Texas?
For Ryan Day, this victory was much more than just a season opener. The Buckeyes defeated the nation’s top-ranked team and held Texas to only seven points, immediately setting the tone for a defense-first identity this season.
Carnell Tate’s 40-yard touchdown reception and CJ Donaldson Jr.’s rushing score provided just enough offense for the Buckeyes. Still, Patricia’s defense truly carried the night and won the game.
KEEP READING: Steve Sarkisian’s Tactics Come Under Fire as Fans Blame Him for Ohio State Defeat
As Smith noted, if even one of those pivotal fourth-down stops had failed, the conversation surrounding this game would be entirely different. Instead, the focus is squarely on Ohio State’s major investment in Patricia paying off immediately.
Texas, on the other hand, leaves Columbus searching for answers. Sarkisian now faces mounting pressure to prove his offense can deliver on the national stage, while Arch Manning will have to bounce back quickly if he wants to remain in the Heisman conversation.
