Texas Defeats Michigan 41-27 in Dramatic Citrus Bowl Clash as Arch Manning Shines

1 January 2026 Sports

Longhorns Close 2025 Season with Statement Win

No. 13 Texas secured a 41-27 Citrus Bowl victory over No. 18 Michigan on Wednesday, ending their season on a high note. The game, played at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, showcased an exciting quarterback duel between two highly touted prospects and demonstrated the Longhorns’ ability to overcome adversity.

Manning’s MVP Performance Steals the Spotlight

Manning ran for two scores and threw for two others as the Longhorns won 41-27, earning Citrus Bowl MVP honours with a performance that signals bright prospects for 2026. Manning finished with 221 passing yards and 155 rushing yards, becoming the first quarterback since Lamar Jackson in 2015 to post such impressive dual-threat numbers in a bowl game. Despite playing without several key offensive players who opted out, Texas was playing without a significant chunk of its top offensive skill talent, but that simply allowed Manning to shine brighter.

Fourth Quarter Surge Seals Victory

The match remained competitive through three quarters, but Texas dominated when it mattered most. Losing by four points heading into the final 15 minutes of the game, the Texas Longhorns put the foot on the gas pedal to score 17 points. After Michigan took a 27-24 lead early in the fourth quarter, Manning hit Kaliq Lockett for a 30-yard touchdown pass. Then, after an Underwood interception, Manning put the Wolverines away with a 60-yard touchdown run. Michigan’s freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood struggled down the stretch, throwing two costly fourth-quarter interceptions that sealed the Wolverines’ fate.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Both Programmes

The win improved Texas to 10-3 and marked its third straight season of 10+ victories under coach Steve Sarkisian. The Longhorns would go on to beat Michigan, 41-27, and the Wolverines would finish 2025 with a 9-4 record. For Texas, Manning’s stellar performance provides momentum heading into 2026, where the Longhorns are expected to be national title contenders. Michigan, meanwhile, faces a period of transition with coaching changes and roster uncertainties ahead. It was just the third ever meeting between the two historical powers, and Texas has won all three, maintaining their perfect record against the Wolverines.