College Town Touch down

Arch Manning is one of the more talked about and hyped-up college quarterbacks this century. Rightfully so, as his bloodline has already produced two first overall picks in the NFL draft as well as a second overall pick. He is projected to be the next first overall pick in the family, the question is when. 

Recently, his grandfather Archie Manning was quoted saying Arch, “isn’t going to do that” when asked about leaving Texas early for the 2026 NFL Draft. 

“He’ll be at Texas.” Archie added. 

Arch Manning’s presence in Austin has inspired a sort of mania between students and fans alike. Texas is ranked number one in the AP preseason poll for the first time in the program’s rich history. The expectations have maybe never been higher for a quarterback with no real experience as a starter. Texas is the betting favorite to win the national title and Manning is the betting favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. Anything less would be acknowledged as a disappointment in Austin this season. 

The good news for Longhorns fans is that based on grandpa’s words, fans can expect Arch to lead the team for at least 2 full seasons. 

Manning was forced into action last season when starting quarterback Quinn Ewers left the game against UTEP in the second quarter with an abdominal injury. He threw four touchdowns and added another on the ground, coasting by UTEP 56-7. He was then named SEC freshman of the week. The following two weeks were Manning’s first career starts, when Ewers was still recovering. 

Against Louisiana-Monroe on September 21st, Manning threw for 258 yards and 2 touchdowns as well as 2 interceptions. The Longhorns won 51-3. 

In his second career start, Texas hosted Mississippi State and Manning threw for 325 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 33 yards rushing and a score. Texas won the game 35-13.

That was the end of Arch as a starter in 2024, as Ewers returned and led Texas to the national semifinals where they lost to eventual champion Ohio State 28-14. Some called for Ewers to return to the bench and vied for Arch to remain the starter. Their wish has finally been granted, as Ewers is now on the Miami Dolphins. Arch Manning is the undisputed starter in Austin, and all the weight of Texas on his shoulders. 

What better way to prove that you are an upgrade to your predecessor, than to beat the team he could not? The top ranked Longhorns will head into the house of the defending national champions, who are ranked third in the country, to open the season. 

Arch Manning and Texas begin their vengeful journey to destiny on August 30th at noon eastern at Ohio State.