Tennessee football transfer T.J. Metcalf has faced Texas, Arch Manning. What he knows

Tennessee football will face Texas for the first time in 57 years on September 26 in a highly anticipated matchup at Neyland Stadium. Safety T.J. Metcalf, a transfer from Michigan, is one of the few Volunteers with recent experience against the Longhorns and star quarterback Arch Manning. Metcalf believes Manning is a highly skilled athlete with great throwing ability and a strong presence on the field, having witnessed him excel in the 2025 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Texas, where he recorded a team-high seven tackles and limited Manning's performance to just 27 points.

Metcalf acknowledges the need to read, run, and pass against Texas' offensive scheme, as Manning can be equally effective with his legs. Heupel, the UT coach, highlights Manning's resilience and competitive spirit, which has been evident in his performance throughout his college career. Despite facing one of the top draft prospects in Manning, Metcalf remains confident in his unit's ability to contain the Longhorn offense and give them a challenging game.