Texas beat UTEP 27–10, but the offense never found a clean rhythm, and Arch Manning’s timing told the story. Through three games, he’s 47-of-85 (55.3%) for 579 yards at 6.8 yards per attempt with six touchdowns and three interceptions. That is a notable dip from last year’s 67.8% and 10.4 YPA in limited action. The signs are easy to spot: the ball was held a beat longer, reads turned into late throws, and drives sputtered when on-schedule completions were there. The release that once snapped now lagged. Even with a 128.8 passer rating and 112 rushing yards on the season, the operation has felt more labored than lethal.
Three interceptions in three games fit the normal learning curve for a new starter, especially after opening on the road against Ohio State’s defense. The difference is