Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns are referred to as “losers” by Baker Mayfield.

In college football, rivalries run deep, and emotions often boil over — both on and off the field. But when former Oklahoma quarterback and current NFL star Baker Mayfield called Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns “losers,” it shocked fans, sparked debates, and stirred up serious tension between two already-heated programs.

This story isn’t just about trash talk. It’s about pride, history, and how one comment from a former star quarterback put pressure on one of college football’s biggest names.

The drama began during an appearance by Baker Mayfield on a popular sports podcast. The topic shifted to the future of the Texas Longhorns, especially with highly-rated quarterback Arch Manning now on the roster. When asked if he thought Texas could finally return to national championship form, Baker smirked and said:

“I don’t care who their quarterback is — they’re still losers. Always have been.”

The moment went viral. Social media exploded. Longhorn fans were furious. Oklahoma fans laughed and cheered. Analysts and former players jumped into the conversation.

But the biggest question was: Why would Baker Mayfield say something so strong? And how will Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns respond?

Before we break it down, it’s important to understand who Arch Manning is. Arch is the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, and the grandson of Ole Miss legend Archie Manning. He was ranked as one of the best quarterback recruits in the country when he committed to Texas in 2023.

With huge expectations placed on his shoulders, Arch joined Texas to help rebuild the program into a national powerhouse. Fans hoped he would bring leadership, toughness, and elite talent to the team. So far, he’s shown promise — even though he hasn’t yet become the full-time starter. Most believe his time is coming soon, and that he has what it takes to lead Texas to the top

Baker Mayfield is no stranger to bold comments. He’s always played with a chip on his shoulder and never backed down from speaking his mind. During his time at Oklahoma, he became one of the most successful and fiery quarterbacks in college football. His battles with Texas were legendary.

In 2017, he famously planted the Oklahoma flag in the middle of the Texas field after a win. That moment made headlines and proved how much Baker loved beating the Longhorns.

So when he called Texas “losers,” it was more than just talk. It was personal. In his eyes, Texas has had top recruits, big budgets, and major hype — but little to show for it in the last 15 years.

From his perspective, until Texas wins championships and proves itself on the field, they’re still underachievers. He sees Arch Manning as just another highly-ranked player trying to fix something that’s been broken for a long time.

The response from Texas was quiet — at least at first.

Arch Manning didn’t speak publicly about the comment, but sources say he took it personally. According to one insider close to the program, Arch is using Baker’s words as motivation. He’s training harder than ever, staying late after practices, and working on becoming the true leader the Longhorns need.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian didn’t directly respond to Baker either, but in a recent press conference, he said:

“We’re not focused on outside noise. We’re focused on getting better, playing tough football, and proving who we are on the field.”

Still, inside the Texas locker room, the players know what was said. And they haven’t forgotten.

The Red River Rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma is already one of the biggest rivalries in college football. Played every October at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, the game splits the stadium in half — one side burnt orange, the other crimson and cream. It’s loud, intense, and full of history.

Baker Mayfield’s comment just added more fuel to the fire.

In 2025, both Texas and Oklahoma will be playing their second year in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The pressure will be higher. The competition will be tougher. And this rivalry could be more meaningful than ever — possibly even with playoff implications.

You can bet that when the two teams face off, players on both sides will remember Baker’s words. The Texas team will want to prove him wrong. The Oklahoma side will try to back up their legend.

Here’s the honest part — some people believe Baker’s comment, while rude, reflects how many see Texas.

Despite having great facilities, big-time recruits, and a rich history, Texas hasn’t won a national championship since 2005. They’ve had losing seasons, multiple coaching changes, and some embarrassing losses over the last 15 years.

Meanwhile, teams like Alabama, Georgia, and even Oklahoma have been winning conference titles, making the playoffs, and producing NFL talent regularly.

Critics say Texas has been “all hype, no results.” And that’s the idea Baker was pushing.

But times are changing.

Under Coach Sarkisian, Texas is getting better. They’ve recruited top players like Arch Manning. They’ve improved on defense. And in 2024, they even made it to the College Football Playoff, losing in a close semifinal game.

So while Baker may have been repeating old stereotypes, Texas is trying to write a new story — and Arch Manning could be the one holding

Arch Manning is expected to become the full-time starter at Texas either this season or next. When he does, every move he makes will be watched closely. Every touchdown will be celebrated. Every mistake will be judged. And every game will be an opportunity to prove critics like Baker Mayfield wrong.

For the Texas Longhorns, this is more than a personal jab. It’s a challenge. It’s a chance to show that the days of being called “losers” are behind them.

College football is built on rivalries, drama, and passion. Baker Mayfield calling Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns “losers” wasn’t just trash talk — it was a reminder of the pressure that comes with big-time football.