Overview

• Texas beat UTEP 27-10, but Manning went 11-for-25 for 114 yards with an end-zone interception, a touchdown pass, and a stretch of 10 straight incompletions as boos surfaced at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium.
• After the game Manning said, “I’ve got to play better,” acknowledging missed throws and insisting he must regain his accuracy.
• Through three games Manning is completing about 55% of his passes for roughly 579 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions, contributing on the ground with 112 rushing yards and three scores.
• Sarkisian reaffirmed confidence in his quarterback, calling the issues mental and emphasizing rhythm and next-play focus, while noting Manning’s two rushing TDs and rejecting the idea of sitting him for a series.
• High-profile voices pulled back support, with Paul Finebaum declaring he is “out” on Manning and Booger McFarland citing persistent inaccuracy, as teammates such as Trevor Goosby, Michael Taaffe and Ryan Wingo publicly backed their QB before Sam Houston State and the SEC opener at Florida.