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The Texas football team took down Sam Houston State in its fourth game of the year, 55-0. Starting quarterback Arch Manning appeared to get his swagger back in the win.
The passer was seen standing over a Bearkats defender after scoring on a rushing touchdown late in the first quarter. He was initially criticized for the response. He’s since been vindicated.
Manning had struggled in his first three contests, leading to doubts that he could live up to lofty preseason expectations that surrounded his redshirt sophomore year.
He was the Heisman favorite despite minimal action. He was also expected to lead the Longhorns to a national title.
Ohio State put a pause on those goals by serving Texas a 14-7 season opening loss. Manning played poorly in the setback.
The struggles continued into matchups with UTEP and San Jose State. He finally got the ball rolling in Week 4.
Arch Manning got his confidence back.
He threw for 309 yards and three touchdowns. He added two more touchdowns on the ground. After his first rushing score of the day, he taunted a Sam Houston State defender.
We told y’all @archmanning got swagger 😏 pic.twitter.com/WsiNPGiJPb
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) September 21, 2025
Manning stood over Bearkats linebacker Antavious Fish after reaching paydirt. He went out of his way to taunt the would-be tackler.
The reaction sparked a social media inferno.
Some believed he should’ve been flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct. Others thought it was a bit over the top given the level of competition.
His mom wasn’t thrilled with the taunt, and though many celebrated the fiery response, there was plenty of criticism.
Was the backlash warranted? New video appears to vindicate Arch Manning.
The quarterback was simply returning the favor.
— Cole Cubelic (@colecubelic) September 21, 2025
Earlier in the first quarter, it was Fish that taunted Manning. The linebacker tackled the signal caller after a two-yard run. He stepped over Manning as the passer laid on the ground.
It just so happened that the two would meet again in the endzone one possession later. Manning hadn’t forgotten about the disrespect.
While he admitted that the reaction was “a little much,” he may have been justified in his response. Some would label it as karma.
It seems Manning is ready to move past the Sam Houston State game and continue the momentum into SEC play. The Texas football team will next face Florida on the road following a bye week.