Manning Shines as Texas Defeats Michigan in Citrus Bowl

ORLANDO, Fla. — Quarterback Arch Manning delivered a standout performance with both his arm and his legs as No. 14 Texas defeated No. 18 Michigan 41–27 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Wednesday night. Despite being without nine starters due to injuries and transfer portal departures, the Longhorns closed their season with a statement win and a 10–3 record. Manning led the Texas offense with 221 passing yards and two touchdown throws while adding 155 rushing yards and two scores on the ground. His most memorable play came late in the fourth quarter, when he broke free for a 60-yard touchdown run that gave Texas a commanding 38–27 lead. The run marked the first time either team led by more than one possession. Wide receiver Kaliq Lockett benefited from expanded playing time and caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from Manning. Running back Christian Carter, starting due to multiple absences at the position, rushed for 105 yards on 20 carries and scored a short touchdown following a key fourth-down conversion by Manning.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian praised his team’s resilience. “We played without nine starters, and it created opportunities for others,” Sarkisian said. “That speaks to the culture we’ve built.” Michigan stayed competitive for much of the game behind freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, who threw for 199 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 77 yards. However, three late interceptions — two in the final quarter — proved costly and allowed Texas to pull away.

The loss capped a turbulent stretch for Michigan, which recently underwent a coaching change. Newly hired head coach Kyle Whittingham observed the game from the press box as interim coach Biff Poggi led the team in the bowl. Texas was fueled by optimism after missing the College Football Playoff, while Michigan finished the season at 9–4. Manning was named Citrus Bowl MVP, continuing a legacy associated with his famous football family — though he joked afterward that he had no plans to return to the Citrus Bowl again.

Texas will open next season at home, while Michigan begins its 2026 campaign against Western Michigan under new leadership.