Arch Manning’s much-anticipated start for No. 1 Texas against No. 2 Ohio State is off to a rocky beginning, and fans are already voicing their frustration.
The redshirt freshman, who saw action in 10 games last season with two starts, opened Saturday’s noon matchup at Ohio Stadium in Columbus with an incomplete pass, sparking immediate criticism across social media.
Fans React Harshly to Arch Manning’s Early Struggles
Less than eight months after these two powerhouse programs met in the College Football Playoff, the stage couldn’t be bigger, and all eyes are on the young quarterback.
One fan didn’t hold back, posting, “Sellers would make that throw.” After an offseason of buildup, nerves appear to be getting the best of Manning.
Arch Manning’s first pass of the game is incomplete pic.twitter.com/z3VojXCnFR
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) August 30, 2025
Another fan chimed in, saying, “Nerves going crazy right now.” This game marks the biggest moment yet for Manning, who completed five of six passes for 95 yards and a touchdown last season against Colorado State. However, performing against the Buckeyes’ elite defense is an entirely different challenge.
I’ve seen enough. Bench him.
— Strategic Daddy (@ErwinsGoodArm) August 30, 2025
A frustrated supporter bluntly summarized the mood, writing, “I’ve seen enough. Bench him.”
Such strong reactions expresses the lack of patience fans often have for young quarterbacks. Manning has just two career starts under his belt, and yet the pressure is already boiling.
The criticism didn’t stop there. Another fan posted simply: “Bust.”
Bust
— Richard Powers CPA (@taheel43291183) August 30, 2025
Harsh labels like this are premature, but they capture how quickly narratives can shift in college football. One shaky drive can spark questions about whether a player is destined to succeed or fail.
And another echoed the same frustration: “I’ve seen enough. Bust.”
As the game unfolded, the criticism piled on, with fans questioning whether Manning was ready for the spotlight of leading the nation’s top-ranked team against a perennial playoff contender.
A Clash of Unproven Quarterbacks
Saturday’s matchup added to the intrigue because both teams were breaking in first-time full-time starters. For Texas, it was Manning, the redshirt freshman carrying one of the most famous names in football.
Texas has entrusted Manning with leading an offense loaded with talent, and how he responds to adversity could ultimately determine whether the Longhorns remain in the national title picture.
KEEP READING: Ex-Texas HC Reveals Key to Deciding Arch Manning vs. Julian Sayin Battle With Warning for Ohio State QB
Both Texas and Ohio State have entered this high-stakes clash with unproven but hyped quarterbacks. For Manning, the pressure of living up to his legendary family name is only intensifying.
For now, though, the spotlight is squarely on Arch Manning. Fans will be watching closely to see whether this was simply a shaky start, or if the calls to “bench him” and label him a “bust” will only grow louder in the weeks ahead.
