Ohio State Defense Stifles Arch Manning and Top-Ranked Texas in Season Opener

Ohio Stadium erupted in celebration as the Ohio State Buckeyes secured a 14-7 victory over the top-ranked Texas Longhorns on Saturday.

 

Entering the game, Texas quarterback Arch Manning was the Heisman Trophy favorite, leading the nation's No. 1 team.

 

However, the Buckeyes' defense, under new coordinator Matt Patricia, delivered a commanding performance.

 

Despite replacing eight starters, the defense controlled the game's tempo, with junior safety Caleb Downs anchoring the unit.

 

Patricia praised Downs, stating, "He was unbelievable back there as a field general. Guys stepped up to the challenge all the way across the board."

 

Key moments included two critical fourth-down stops in the red zone during the second half.

 

One stop occurred inside the 1-yard line when Manning was halted on a sneak; the other was an incomplete pass in the end zone.

 

Fittingly, Downs sealed the game by tackling a Texas receiver near midfield on another fourth-down attempt.

 

Texas' four turnovers on downs were the most in a game since a 2017 season-opening loss to Maryland.

 

Ohio State coach Ryan Day emphasized, "The story of the game was the defense. Those fourth-down stops were big."

 

This victory marked Ohio State's first home win over a No. 1-ranked team since upsetting Iowa in 1985.

 

The game's only turnover was a pivotal interception by Ohio State's Jermaine Mathews Jr., giving the Buckeyes possession at their own 32-yard line with 3:01 remaining in the third quarter.

 

Shortly after, sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin connected with Carnell Tate on a 40-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead.

 

Running back C.J. Donaldson contributed a 1-yard touchdown run in the first half, giving the Buckeyes a 14-0 lead entering the fourth quarter.

 

Manning struggled, completing 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, including a late 32-yard touchdown to Parker Livingston.

 

Despite the late score, the Buckeyes' defense held firm, securing the win.

 

Ohio State's defense limited Manning to an off-target percentage of 37%, the worst by a Texas quarterback in a decade.

 

Even Manning's renowned mobility was contained, as he managed just 38 yards on 10 carries.

 

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian commented, "For Arch, the expectations were out of control on the outside. I'd say let's finish the book before we judge him. That's one chapter."

 

Ohio State's defense, with its strategic execution and resilience, demonstrated that the Buckeyes are formidable contenders this season.