The hype and expectations surrounding Arch Manning as a freshman last spring were out of proportion to the fact that he should have been finishing his senior year of high school.
He was expected to soar past Maalik Murphy, who was next in line for the starting job, and many supporters expected him to take Quinn Ewers’ spot. Neither of these things occurred, as Murphy was the spring game MVP last year, and Ewers led the team to a Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance. Manning, for the most part, rode the bench.
Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian voiced disbelief this week at the narrative that has surrounded quarterback Arch Manning this offseason.
There was a lot of talk about Manning transferring to another school, but he never considered using the NCAA transfer portal. Manning’s decision to stay at Texas rather than move to a program where he might be assured a starting role has earned him accolades from various observers.
Sarkisian joined CBS Sports‘ Josh Pate this week for an extended sit-down conversation, and he laughed at the idea that Manning’s return to Austin is a big deal while putting emphasis on the fact that he is heading into year two.
“I get a chuckle out of this. Everyone’s praising Arch for staying at Texas. He’s going into year two,” Sarkisian said. “What do you mean? But that’s the mentality. Good for Arch, and he’s sticking it out with Texas in year two, and I’m like, that’s part of the process. We’re developing him to play and be a great football player and a great leader, and he’s going to be. But that’s where we’re at.”
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Due To an Injury History From Quinn Ewers, Arch Manning May Get a Chance To Play A Lot In 2024
The Texas Longhorns enter the 2024 season with arguably the best quarterback room in the country. That unit will be led by starting quarterback Quinn Ewers, who helped the Horns win their first Big 12 title since 2009 and reach the College Football Playoff.
However, in the last two seasons, Ewers has been sidelined for numerous weeks due to an injury, leaving the backup quarterback with the task of keeping things running until his return. Fortunately for the Horns, Arch Manning can play that job in 2024.
The former five-star prospect threw for 30 yards on 2 of 5 passing during his lone appearance in Texas’ 57-7 win against Texas Tech.
His numbers should greatly improve during the 2024 campaign.
