Pigskin & Burnt Ends: Manning Rebounds, Baylor Edges SMU

Episode two of Pigskin & Burnt Ends spotlighted a big bounce-back week in Texas college football. Host “IndyCar” Tim broke down wins across the Lone Star State, with storylines ranging from Arch Manning’s improvement to a thrilling Baylor-SMU showdown.

Arch Manning and the Longhorns Recover

After a tough debut at Ohio State, Arch Manning looked far more comfortable in Texas’ 38-7 win over San Jose State. The freshman QB threw for 295 yards and four touchdowns while adding a 20-yard rushing score. Wideout Parker Livingstone hauled in an 83-yard strike, Texas’ longest pass play since 2017. Head coach Steve Sarkisian praised Manning’s aggressiveness, though Manning himself admitted he needs to be sharper in the red zone. With UTEP and Houston up next, the Longhorns have momentum heading into the annual Red River Rivalry.

Houston’s Wigman Finds His Groove

Across the state, Houston topped Rice 35-9 in the Bayou Bucket. Former Texas A&M quarterback Connor Weigman threw for 188 yards and a touchdown while rushing for another score. Running back Dean Connors added 132 yards and two touchdowns against his old team. The Cougars will soon face stiffer tests, with Colorado and Oregon State looming, but Wigman’s health and confidence give Houston fans reason for optimism.

Baylor Outlasts SMU in 2OT Thriller

The highlight of the week was Baylor’s dramatic 48-45 win over SMU in double overtime. Sawyer Robertson passed for 440 yards and four scores, including two in the final minutes of regulation. A missed Mustang field goal in overtime set the stage for Baylor’s game-winning kick. While SMU’s Kevin Jennings threw for three touchdowns, the Bears extended their dominance over their former Southwest Conference rival to 14 straight wins.

Texas Tech also continued its offensive fireworks, blasting Kent State 62-14 behind Baron Morton’s three touchdown passes. With Oregon State and Utah ahead, bigger challenges await. But for now, it’s clear: Texas football is heating up early in 2025.
Listen to “Pigskin & Burnt Ends: Marcel Reed Injury Update + Arch Manning Rebounds Nicely” on Spreaker.