Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning has resumed practice as of Wednesday but is currently listed as questionable for their upcoming Week 10 match against the No. 9 Vanderbilt. After the Longhorns’ thrilling 45-38 victory over Mississippi State last Saturday, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian revealed that Manning entered concussion protocol due to an incident when his helmet struck the turf during a 13-yard scramble.

In a dramatic overtime moment where Manning advanced through Mississippi State’s defense, he was ultimately brought down by safety Isaac Smith and defensive lineman Kedrick Bingley-Jones, who tackled him from behind. Although Manning was assisted off the field by Brandon Baker, he soon requested trainers’ help while seated on the ground. Manning’s backup, Matthew Caldwell, managed to throw a touchdown pass during the critical possession which ultimately secured the victory.

Previously, Manning orchestrated a remarkable 17-point comeback in the fourth quarter, leading the Longhorns to tie the game at 38 by overcoming a 17-point deficit. This feat marked a historic moment, as it was the first instance since 2013 that an SEC team had come back from such a deficit in the final quarter to win. With Manning contributing significantly to the game, he completed 29 out of 46 attempts for a total of 346 yards, achieving three touchdowns along with a rushing touchdown.

How Does Concussion Protocol Work?

As per the university’s concussion management plan, a team physician oversees post-concussion treatment, determining the required physical and cognitive rest based on a series of evaluations, concussion history, and the athlete’s specific needs. Ultimately, the authority to allow Manning to return to the field rests with Texas’s team physician. The NCAA’s concussion safety protocol mandates that Manning must receive medical clearance prior to resuming play.

Manning’s condition will be updated daily following the Wednesday injury report as they approach the game day. Standing at 6-2 overall and with a 3-1 record in conference play, Texas is entering a crucial period, starting with the matchup against the 10th-ranked Commodores. The Longhorns will have a bye week after this game before facing the fifth-ranked Georgia, hosting Arkansas, and then wrapping up the regular season against the only unbeaten SEC team, Texas A&M on November 28. Winning all remaining games would ensure a third consecutive playoff appearance for the Longhorns and would secure a spot in the SEC Championship Game.