Texas Football Performance: Arch Manning, Receivers Ace Season Opener

Texas football couldn't have asked for a much cleaner opening statement. The Longhorns hammered Texas State 59-7 Saturday, piling up 516 yards, forcing three turnovers and giving Steve Sarkisian plenty to like before the difficulty level rises dramatically.

Here's the biggest takeaway from Texas' season-opening report card: Arch Manning and his new-look receiving corps already look dangerous.

MORE: Texas Longhorns QB Arch Manning Enjoys Rare Stat in Blowout Win vs. Texas State

Manning looked comfortable from the opening possession, completing 20 of 27 passes for 305 yards and four touchdowns.

His lone interception keeps the grade from reaching the top tier, but this was exactly the type of efficient performance Texas needed from its veteran quarterback.

Backup KJ Lacey also looked composed late, completing six of seven attempts for 55 yards.

Hollywood Smothers immediately flashed his big-play ability with a 45-yard run and finished with 70 rushing yards on 10 carries. Raleek Brown added touchdown runs of 13 and 21 yards.

There were stretches when the ground game lacked consistency, but Texas showed considerably more explosiveness than a year ago.

This group delivered the loudest statement.

Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman combined for 10 receptions, 191 yards and three touchdowns. 

Wingo produced seven catches for 121 yards, while Coleman scored twice on three receptions in his Texas debut.

If that becomes the standard, Manning won't lack weapons.

Pass protection was encouraging for a rebuilt group that entered the opener with legitimate questions.

Manning generally had time to operate, although Texas still needs more down-to-down consistency creating rushing lanes.

That's the biggest offensive concern heading into Week 2.

Texas State gained 349 yards, but the Longhorns repeatedly slammed the door when opportunities appeared.

Rasheem Biles forced a fumble and intercepted a pass, Graceson Littleton returned another fumble 59 yards for a touchdown and Maraad Watson produced a strip-sack.

Texas State didn't score after halftime.

The secondary also limited explosive damage despite being one of the defense's biggest preseason question marks.

Sarkisian's offense scored on eight of nine possessions, while Will Muschamp's defense completely shut down Texas State after intermission.

Texas was also disciplined, committing only four penalties for 35 yards.

That's about as complete an opener as Sarkisian could've wanted.

MORE: Texas Longhorns Winners, Losers and Overreactions From 59-7 Win Over Texas State

Now comes the real test.

Ohio State visits Austin on Sept. 12, and Texas won't be graded on style points anymore. After Saturday's demolition, though, the Longhorns at least look ready for the exam.