Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns needed a get-right game in a big way in Week 4, and they got it. Manning had his best game of the season in every major statistical category as the Longhorns dismantled Sam Houston State.
The Bearkats aren’t exactly national title contenders, but still, given the scrutiny Manning has faced this season, it has to feel good to perform at this level. He finished the day 18 for 21 for 309 yards with three touchdowns, no interceptions, and a rating of 256.5.
A powerful day wasn’t without backlash, though. From Manning’s mother to Peter Burns at ESPN, Manning faced criticism for how he handled himself in victory.
Arch Manning’s Mother Not Happy With His TD Celebration
Manning’s performance from yesterday is getting national attention, but so is his staredown touchdown celebration. The score that’s drawing attention occurred late in the first quarter and gave the Longhorns a 13-0 lead. After slipping a few tackles, Manning found pay dirt and stared down the last defender he beat on the way to the end zone.
Manning was asked about the play after the game, and he answered truthfully and included an admission about his Mother’s feelings on the play. “It felt good to be back in the end zone. It was probably a little much; my mom was mad at me.”
Lucky for Manning, he was handed a warning, not a personal foul, but the opinions online are not as kind to him.
Peter Burns Is Not Appreciative of Longhorns’ Twitter Account
It’s easy to see both sides of the equation regarding Manning’s celebration. You’re looking at a sophomore quarterback with enormous expectations but limited experience, just 201 career pass attempts, who has struggled early this season while facing constant criticism from the media and fans. Scoring a big early touchdown and blowing off some steam makes sense.
On the other hand, fans and media point out that it felt excessive given the competition. Peter Burns took to X today to point out that his real issue was with the Longhorns team account.
I’ve got zero issues with a young kid getting fired up after scoring, what I do have an issue is the team’s social account brag like it’s a big deal when it’s against Sam Houston https://t.co/M2ezq4NJ2m
— Peter Burns (@PeterBurnsESPN) September 21, 2025
Burns is likely referencing that the Longhorns’ official account made or reposted nearly a half dozen posts of the touchdown and celebration.
Whichever side you’re on, it’s clear that Manning and the Longhorns will be under a microscope all season long. Texas is off this week, but they return to work on October 4, 2025, against the Florida Gators.
