In Arch Manning's first career start, the Texas Longhorns dominated the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks in the first half.
AUSTIN -- In Arch Manning's first career start on Saturday night, the Texas Longhorns took a commanding lead into halftime against the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks with a score of ()-().
Manning completed the first half with 11 of 21 passes for 214 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.
Texas running back Jaydon Blue had a standout performance, scoring three touchdowns in the first half—two rushing and one receiving. He finished with 15 carries for 66 yards and two rushing touchdowns, plus a three-yard receiving score.
On defense, Texas held ULM quarterback General Booty to just 5 of 15 passing for 45 yards and an interception.
The game began with Manning and the Longhorns receiving the ball first. Early in the drive, Manning’s pass to Matthew Golden was intercepted in heavy traffic. However, ULM failed to capitalize, going three-and-out after a key sack by Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr.
Manning quickly rebounded, hitting Isaiah Bond with a 56-yard pass to set up a one-yard touchdown run by Jaydon Blue, putting Texas ahead 7-0.
Texas's defense continued to shine, with Hill Jr. intercepting a tipped pass, although his return for a touchdown was negated by a block in the back. Manning then connected with Blue for a three-yard touchdown catch.
ULM punted again after another short drive. Manning connected with Wingo on a deep third-down pass, resulting in defensive pass interference, and followed with a 25-yard pass to Wingo and a 17-yard touchdown connection.
After another ULM punt, Manning led a 12-play, 87-yard drive culminating in a two-yard rushing touchdown by Blue, his third of the half.
The Warhawks managed a 13-play, 58-yard drive, ending with a 35-yard field goal to make it 21-3.
Texas continued to attack deep, but after missing two passes to Johntay Cook II and Blue, Manning’s third-down pass to Blue was tipped and intercepted. ULM got the ball at Texas' 38-yard line and nearly scored with a 45-yard field goal attempt, but the kick was blocked as the half ended.
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