By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: (Getty Images)
Texas Longhorns stun the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes with a 24-23 victory on Saturday night in one of the most anticipated matchups of Week 2.
The Longhorns overcame a 20-point deficit. It is the biggest win of the season for the program and for head coach Steve Sarkisian. In addition, it’s the second-largest fourth-quarter rally in Longhorns history.
The first three quarters were awful for the Longhorns. Fans booed their team. The Buckeyes dominated for most of the game. Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning played like a champion in the fourth quarter. Never underestimate the last name.
Manning completed 11 of his 15 throws to finish 23-of-37 for 197 yards and also rushed seven times for 22 yards. Manning never wavered. He never lost confidence in himself. A true leader in the quarterback position never shows weakness no matter how bad the game is going. It’s the biggest moment of his collegiate career.
“I’m very proud of Arch,” Sarkisian said. “Last September was a hard month for him. I think him getting through that adversity last year helped him get through the adversity tonight.”
Sarkisian threw the word “adversity” around often during the postgame interview. Players were frustrated because of how things were going during the first half. Sarkisian found a way to motivate his players. Experience has taught Texas a lot. Longhorns’ defense needed to execute in the second half against the Buckeyes ‘ quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiyah Smith.
Ryan Wingo was huge for the Longhorns down the stretch. His grit was amazing and helped Texas win this game. The fans were energetic. Their passion was infectious. The players and staff are instrumental in helping Sarkisian make the right calls. There’s a great amount of trust in this program.
Some people questioned Sarkisian’s decision about the fourth down situation. When asked about going for fourth down, Sarkisian, with confidence and attitude, didn’t hold back on his true feelings.
“That’s how losers think,” Sarkisian said. “Winners win, baby. You got to go for it.”
The Longhorns will play UTSA Roadrunners on Saturday, September 19 at 8 pm.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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