Texas Longhorns’ SEC Championship Dreams Shattered by Georgia Bulldogs
The No. 2 Texas Longhorns faced off against the No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship game on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Despite being the No. 1 team in the SEC and riding a five-game win streak, the Longhorns fell short, losing 22-19 in an overtime battle.
This was Texas’ first-ever SEC title game appearance since joining the conference before the 2024 college football season. They were listed as a 3-point favorite, per ESPN BET, but ultimately failed to capitalize on their momentum.
The Longhorns’ loss marked their second defeat of the season, both of which came at the hands of the Bulldogs. The previous loss occurred in Week 8, with Georgia winning 30-15.
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration, with many calling for backup quarterback Arch Manning to have played a more significant role in the game. Manning, known for his dual-threat abilities, rarely saw the field during the SEC Championship.
“Texas doesn’t deserve Arch Manning. Sarkisian refuses to play him,” said one fan. Another fan commented, “Put in Arch Manning already, yikes.” Many fans believe that Manning’s presence could have made a significant
difference in the outcome of the game.
Manning finished the game with five rushing yards on one carry, after being plugged in for a run-pass option from Texas’ offensive package. In the previous matchup against Georgia in Week 8, Manning also saw limited playing time, producing 19 yards and completing 3-of-6 pass attempts.
While Manning lacks extensive playing experience, he has demonstrated his potential as one of the most electric players in college football. During the regular season, when starting quarterback Quinn Ewers went down with an oblique injury, Manning started in two games for the Longhorns.
The loss has sparked a heated debate among fans, with many questioning Coach Steve Sarkisian’s decision-making. “Steve Sarkisian has to start Arch Manning in the first round. It would be malpractice to the Longhorn’s chances of getting deep in the playoffs,” said one fan.
As the Longhorns look to regroup and prepare for the playoffs, the question on everyone’s mind is: what could have been if Arch Manning had been given more playing time? Only time will tell if Manning will get his chance to shine in the upcoming games.
