Arch Manning bounced back from a disappointing season-opening performance to lead Texas to a win on Saturday, but some fans who watched the game wondered if the quarterback was fighting through some sort of injury.
Manning had an unusual arm angle on some of his passes in Texas’ 38-7 win over San Jose State. There was one particular throw where he seemed to blatantly grimace as he delivered the pass. You can see the video here.
The grimace and questionable mechanics led to speculation that Manning’s throwing shoulder might be injured. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian was asked about that on Monday, and he emphatically dismissed the concerns.
“I’ve never filmed any of you guys when you’re using the bathroom, so I don’t know what kind of faces you’re making,” Sarkisian told reporters.
Steve Sarkisian says Arch Manning isn't dealing with any arm pain and dismisses the idea he was grimacing.
— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) September 8, 2025
"I've never filmed any of you guys when you're using the bathroom, so I don't know what kind of faces you're making."
Manning got off to a slow start against San Jose State, but he finished 19/30 for 295 yards, 4 touchdowns and an interception. He also ran for 23 yards and a touchdown.
There is no reason to think Texas would try to cover up a Manning injury, especially this early in the year. What seems more likely is that people are searching for answers because Manning, who entered the season as the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, has gotten off to such a shaky start.
Manning became the butt of plenty of jokes with how poorly he played against Ohio State in Week 1. Some of his throws were so inaccurate that many people assumed something was wrong, but it seems like the redshirt sophomore is simply experiencing growing pains in his first full season as a starter.
