Texas Longhorns fans have a lot to talk about this summer, and much of the buzz centers on former star wide receiver Matthew Golden and the team’s upcoming rematch with Ohio State.
Golden, now a rookie with the Green Bay Packers, recently shared his thoughts on the high-stakes season opener, and his comments have sparked excitement across social media.
His talk of revenge for the Cotton Bowl loss has energized Texas supporters, who are eager to see if the Longhorns can turn the page and prove themselves against a top opponent. With Arch Manning stepping in as the new starting quarterback, the stage is set for a fresh chapter in Texas football.
Matthew Golden’s Desire for Texas’ Revenge Against Ohio State
In a recent interview with KXAN News, Golden made his feelings clear about the much-anticipated rematch.
“Arch’s [Arch Manning] a dawg, man, you know I’m excited to see what he’s about to do,” Golden said. “Texas, man, that’s my school, you know, so I’m excited to see what them boys do this year. You know, they got Ohio State week one, so that’s the game I’m waiting on. We gotta get that get back, man,”
“We gotta get that get back.”#Texas Ex Matthew Golden spoke this week on the Longhorns facing Ohio State Wk 1 and QB Arch Manning.
Hear more from the Packers WR tonight on @KXAN_News #HookEm pic.twitter.com/pERf5Qz6Cs
— Noah Gross (@noah_gross27) July 2, 2025
Golden’s words carry extra weight after his performance in the Cotton Bowl. He played through an ankle injury that sent him to the locker room during the first half, and while he tried to return, his impact was limited.
Although official statistics for Golden in that game are not available from major outlets, his presence was missed as Ohio State took control. The Buckeyes’ defense, led by standout plays from Jack Sawyer, sealed the win for Ohio State and sent Texas home early.
Sawyer, an Ohio State defensive end, made one of the game’s defining plays with an 83-yard scoop-and-score fumble recovery.
The moment, dubbed “83 Yards Through the Heart of Texas,” was a turning point that ended the Longhorns’ championship hopes and propelled Ohio State to the national title game. For Longhorns fans, the memory of that night is still fresh, and the upcoming rematch is seen as a chance for redemption.
Arch Manning Era Brings New Hope for Texas
With former quarterback Quinn Ewers now in the NFL, all eyes are on Arch Manning as he takes over the starting role. Golden’s excitement about Manning is shared by many Texas fans, who see the young quarterback as a symbol of new beginnings.
Manning’s arrival signals a shift in the team’s identity, and his potential has drawn praise from ESPN’s Rece Davis, who has predicted Manning could finish as the No. 1 quarterback for the 2025 season.
Manning’s ability to extend plays and make quick decisions could help Texas overcome the offensive struggles it faced against Ohio State’s aggressive defense in January. The Longhorns will need a strong performance from their new leader to compete with the reigning national champions.
On the receiving end, sophomore Ryan Wingo is expected to step into Golden’s former role as the primary target.
Wingo had 29 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns as a freshman, showing the big-play ability Texas needs to replace Golden’s production from last season. Wingo’s development will be key as the Longhorns look to establish a new offensive identity.
Both teams enter the 2025 season with championship aspirations, but both also face significant roster turnover.
While exact numbers are difficult to verify, the Longhorns and Buckeyes are each expected to return a similar share of their players from last season, making this matchup as much about proving a new identity as it is about settling old scores.
The winner of the August 30 clash will gain crucial early-season momentum. For Texas, the game is a chance to show it can compete at the highest level and move past the disappointment of last season.
Golden’s comments highlight just how much this rematch means to everyone involved, and the energy around the program suggests fans are ready for a fresh start.
