​Arch Manning, © IMAGN Images
The Texas–Ohio State matchup from last season was highly anticipated, but it didn’t live up to the hype. Ohio State edged Texas 14-7, yet analyst Kaidan Smith felt that neither Julian Sayin nor Arch Manning performed at their best, marking their first seasons as starters for both players. In a conversation with J.D. PicKell on Thursday, Smith described the upcoming Texas–Ohio State clash on September 12, 2026 as the season’s marquee game, especially for NFL scouts eager to evaluate two top quarterback talents.
Smith noted that both quarterbacks have grown since their first meeting but were somewhat disappointing in that initial showdown. He believes this year’s matchup will feature a edge as both players carry a chip on their shoulders to prove themselves. He also highlighted the coaching matchups, with Ohio State introducing a new offensive coordinator and a potential clash between Arthur Smith’s offense and a Will Muschamp defense.
“The storylines write themselves. I think both of these quarterbacks have grown so much since the first time we saw them play,” Smith said. “They probably disappointed us a little bit as far as what we thought they were going to do in this game. This year’s edition, I think they’re both going to have a chip on their shoulder to prove that they’re better than the last time we saw them face up against each other. Ohio State has a new offensive coordinator. Excited to see that Arthur Smith’s offense goes up against a Will Muschamp defense.”
Smith added that the NFL scouts will be keenly watching. He suggested last year’s game came too early in the quarterbacks’ development, but this time both rosters are more settled, and the anticipation around the matchup could draw significant attention.
Peyton Manning weighed in on the Texas–Tennessee clash set for September 26, 2026 during the Manning Passing Academy, saying his allegiance will ultimately lie with his family. He noted that while his heart may lean toward Tennessee on Saturdays, his nephew Arch Manning’s performance will be a priority for him on game days.
Arch Manning is now entering his second year as Texas’ starting quarterback.