Following the Longhorns’ most recent CFP exit, it’s Arch Manning time at Texas. Will it live up to the hype? “The Athletic”

Will Arch Manning Live Up to the Hype at Texas?

As the Longhorns head into the 2025 season following another disappointing exit from the College Football Playoff (CFP), all eyes are squarely on the quarterback position. For the Texas Longhorns, the spotlight shines brightest on one name in particular: Arch Manning. The nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch arrives in Austin with a level of hype rarely seen in college football. But with great expectations come great pressure. Will Manning be the one to finally bring Texas back to national prominence, or will the weight of the legacy he carries prove too much?

A Legacy Unlike Any Other

When Arch Manning committed to Texas in June 2023, it felt like a seismic moment in the world of college football recruiting. As the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the nation, Manning was already a household name before ever stepping onto a college campus. His last name alone carries with it the aura of NFL greatness. Peyton and Eli Manning’s long and successful careers have set the bar incredibly high, and now, Arch must carve out his own path.

However, the Manning legacy isn’t just about family name recognition. Arch, as a high school player at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, consistently showcased skills that aligned with his pedigree. His ability to read defenses, make all the necessary throws, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations earned him the kind of accolades that usually follow players destined for stardom. The hype around him has been so overwhelming that it is almost impossible to separate the player from the family name.

But that can be a double-edged sword. Every time Manning throws an incomplete pass or fails to meet the sky-high expectations, the weight of his family’s legacy will be felt. The question becomes: will he be able to live up to that unprecedented pressure, or will it prove to be too much?

Arch Manning’s Skillset: What to Expect

While there’s no denying that Arch Manning has the tools to succeed, what exactly should Texas fans expect from him as he steps into the role of starting quarterback? The comparisons to his uncles are inevitable, but it’s important to remember that Arch is his own player with a unique set of skills.

Manning is an extremely gifted passer with a strong, accurate arm. He throws a beautiful deep ball, and his mechanics are sharp—traits that both Eli and Peyton were known for as well. He has a high football IQ, understanding defensive schemes and adjusting his plays based on what he sees. His ability to make quick, calculated decisions will be a key factor in his success at Texas. His poise in the pocket, combined with his ability to keep his eyes downfield while evading pressure, gives him a distinct advantage over many quarterbacks his age.

Manning’s physical frame also sets him apart. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing around 215 pounds, he has the ideal size for a modern quarterback. This allows him to absorb hits without losing accuracy or velocity on his throws. Unlike many young quarterbacks who struggle with balancing mobility and pocket presence, Manning seems to have the ability to make plays with his legs when necessary without relying too heavily on them.

The Texas Football Environment

The Longhorns have been in a bit of a rebuilding phase over the past few years under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Though they’ve made significant progress—returning to relevance with a solid season in 2024—Texas still hasn’t been able to break through into the upper echelons of college football. The College Football Playoff exit after a promising 2024 campaign is a perfect example of just how close they are to reaching that next level.

The arrival of Manning, however, injects a new sense of optimism into the program. The expectations are clear: it’s time for Texas to return to national championship contention. Manning will be stepping into a talented offensive system, with an experienced supporting cast that includes running back Jonathon Brooks and standout receivers like Xavier Worthy. The offensive line, which has been a weak spot for Texas in recent years, will need to protect Manning as he develops into the face of the program.

It’s also worth noting the challenge of playing in the Big 12. While Texas is heading to the SEC in 2025, they will still face significant competition within their current conference, including formidable teams like Oklahoma, Kansas State, and Baylor. Manning will face defenses that will challenge his poise and adaptability right from the start.

The Pressure of Being “The One”

For all of his talent, Arch Manning will be under a level of scrutiny that few college players have ever experienced. At Texas, where expectations are sky-high and the pressure to win national championships is ever-present, Manning will be asked to deliver results immediately. The fact that he is following in the footsteps of legends, including Vince Young and Colt McCoy, only intensifies the challenge. Longhorns fans are impatient for success, and the burden on Manning to restore the program to its former glory is immense.

However, Manning’s poise and maturity, which have been repeatedly highlighted during his high school career, should serve him well. He’s used to the spotlight, having grown up in a family that has lived under constant media attention. His uncles, both Super Bowl champions, are no strangers to being in the public eye, and Arch has likely learned how to handle the constant pressure and scrutiny.

But the transition to college football is never simple, even for the most talented players. Manning will have to adjust to the speed and complexity of the game, especially against experienced college defenses. He will need time to develop chemistry with his teammates and adjust to Steve Sarkisian’s offensive system. While the hype surrounding Manning is deserved, there’s also a sense of patience that will be required as he grows into the role.

The Long-Term Outlook

Looking beyond the immediate future, Texas fans must also consider the long-term impact of having Arch Manning under center. If he can live up to the hype, Manning has the potential to be a game-changing quarterback who leads Texas to a national championship. With a program on the rise, the addition of a talent like Manning could put Texas in the conversation for years to come, not just for this season but for the future of the program as well.

However, it’s important to recognize that even the most promising quarterbacks don’t always follow a linear path to success. Manning may face growing pains, setbacks, and unexpected obstacles. The key for Texas will be ensuring that the infrastructure around him is solid—coaching, player development, and team chemistry will all play significant roles in determining how successful Manning can be.