Heisman hopefuls Manning and Sayin to face off when No. 1 Ohio State meets No. 4 Texas in Austin, tell me about this news in (https://www.wral.com/news/ap/5ec4e-heisman-hopefuls-manning-and-sayin-to-face-off-when-no-1-ohio-state-meets-no-4-texas-in-austin/)
09-09-2026
This Associated Press report previews the highly anticipated college football clash between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 4 Texas in Austin, highlighting the quarterback showdown between Heisman Trophy contenders Julian Sayin and Arch Manning.Key details from the story include:• The Rematch and Context: The game serves as a high-stakes rematch following their 2025 season opener in Columbus, where Ohio State defeated Texas 14-7. That previous matchup derailed Manning’s early Heisman campaign while launching Sayin into national prominence, eventually making Sayin a Heisman finalist last December.• Quarterback Evolution: Both signal-callers have grown significantly over the past year. Sayin progressed from a steady game manager into an elite leader who took Ohio State to the College Football Playoff and is viewed as a potential future first-round NFL draft pick. Manning rebounded from early career struggles to establish himself as a premier playmaker, now projected by many as a potential top overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.• Season Openers: Both enters the contest 1-0 after dominant Week 1 performances. Sayin threw for 320 yards and three touchdowns in Ohio State’s 56-3 win over Ball State, while Manning threw for 305 yards and four touchdowns in Texas’ 59-7 blowout victory against Texas State.• High Stakes: Manning noted in the lead-up that he does not dwell on the negative memories of last year’s loss, emphasizing that he feels “a year better” and is eager for the opportunity to face Ohio State again. Beyond conference pride, this marquee non-conference battle is expected to play a major role in shaping the national championship picture and the Heisman Trophy race for the remainder of the season.