In front of a raucous crowd of 102,850 — the fifth-largest in Darrell K. Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium history — the No. 1 Texas Longhorns delivered a commanding 51-3 victory over UL Monroe on Saturday night. Arch Manning, making his highly anticipated first career start, led the offense with precision, while Jaydon Blue’s career day highlighted a ground attack that was unstoppable all night.
Manning, the third-generation quarterback from football royalty, completed 15 of 29 passes for 258 yards and two touchdowns. His debut showcased his poise and talent, as he orchestrated Texas’ balanced offense effectively, bouncing back from an opening-drive interception to lead several scoring drives. A pivotal play came when Manning connected with Isaiah Bond on a 56-yard bomb, igniting the Longhorns’ first touchdown drive and energizing the massive crowd.
Running back Jaydon Blue was the star of the night, recording 124 yards on 25 carries, with three rushing touchdowns and a receiving score. His four total touchdowns showcased his versatility and toughness. Blue consistently bulldozed his way through the Warhawks defense, with each touchdown drive building on the momentum of the previous one. His performance was capped by a second-quarter touchdown run that put Texas up 28-0, and his two-yard rushing score in the fourth quarter solidified the Longhorns’ commanding lead.
The Texas offense ran wild with 239 rushing yards and five total rushing touchdowns. Blue set the tone, but the entire rushing attack contributed. Jerrick Gibson added another touchdown with a two-yard plunge in the third quarter, while the defense pitched in with a safety when Liona Lefau tackled a Warhawk in the end zone.
The Longhorns’ defense played a near-perfect game, holding UL Monroe to just 111 yards of total offense — the fewest allowed by Texas this season. Linebacker Anthony Hill made a significant impact with a sack and his first career interception, returning the pick deep into Warhawk territory to set up another touchdown. Texas’ defense continued to clamp down, allowing only a 35-yard field goal late in the first half. A blocked field goal by Alfred Collins as the half expired ensured that the Warhawks’ scoring efforts were limited.
After Manning’s interception on the opening drive, Texas responded with a methodical second drive that culminated in Blue’s first touchdown. A deep strike to Bond set up the score, and Hill’s interception soon after put Texas in prime position to extend their lead. Manning quickly found Blue again, this time for a three-yard touchdown reception to make it 14-0. Ryan Wingo joined the scoring with a 17-yard touchdown reception from Manning to push the lead to 21-0 by the end of the first quarter.
The Longhorns’ dominance carried through all phases of the game. In the second half, the Texas offense continued its relentless attack, and the defense added to the score with a third-quarter safety — the program’s first since 2021. UL Monroe, overwhelmed by Texas’ size, speed, and precision, managed only a few positive plays, their 35-yard field goal standing as their lone highlight.
With the blowout win, Texas solidifies its status as the No. 1 team in the nation, improving to 4-0. As Arch Manning settles into the starting quarterback role and the running game thrives, the Longhorns look poised for a deep postseason run. Next week, they’ll face a tougher test, but Saturday night proved Texas is hitting its stride.
For the Warhawks, the loss serves as a reminder of the challenges in facing top-tier competition. They’ll look to rebound next week as they return to Sun Belt Conference play.
The Longhorns’ balanced attack, paired with a lockdown defense, left no doubt about their national title aspirations. Arch Manning’s debut was promising, but Jaydon Blue’s breakout performance on the ground solidified the Longhorns’ control. Texas fans have plenty to be excited about as the team marches forward with championship aspirations firmly in sight.
