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Johnny Manziel Misses GameDay, Blames Norovirus Amid Speculation

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Johnny Manziel missed his scheduled ESPN College GameDay guest picker appearance, prompting speculation about the reason.
Initially, rumors spread that he partied after attending a boxing match in Miami.
Manziel later said he contracted norovirus and apologized on Instagram for missing the game, saying, "There is almost nothing on this earth that would have made me miss that game."
Texas A&M lost to Miami 10-3, ending their playoff hopes.
Alex Caruso replaced him as the guest picker.

History

Historical Context

In 2012, Texas A&M football marked a significant turnaround by finishing the season with an 11-2 record, highlighted by a victory over Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl. This win, 41-13, showcased the team's resurgence under first-year head coach Kevin Sumlin and featured Heisman winner Johnny Manziel, who rushed for a bowl-record 229 yards. The Aggies' success reflects their transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) after leaving the Big 12.

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Story summary

Johnny Manziel missed his scheduled ESPN College GameDay guest picker appearance, prompting speculation about the reason.
Initially, rumors spread that he partied after attending a boxing match in Miami.
Manziel later said he contracted norovirus and apologized on Instagram for missing the game, saying, "There is almost nothing on this earth that would have made me miss that game."
Texas A&M lost to Miami 10-3, ending their playoff hopes.
Alex Caruso replaced him as the guest picker.

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