AUSTIN, TX — The spotlight is firmly on Arch Manning as he steps into a full-time role as the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns under the guidance of head coach Steve Sarkisian. The Sporting News college football insider, Bill Bender, provides insightful perspectives on Manning’s potential impact and his journey ahead.
“I like the athletic ability. He can run. He’s different from his uncles. He’s got some mobility.”
Manning’s style draws comparisons to his grandfather, Archie Manning.
“He actually reminds me of watching Archie Manning run around. That’s kind of how he moves out of the pocket,” Binder told Nitecast Media while acknowledging Manning’s unique athletic abilities.
As Manning transitions into a full-time leadership role, Bender emphasizes the importance of consistency.
“What’s going to come down to is that consistency,” he explained regarding the focus, being on Manning’s intermediate passing. “For all the stats that Pro Football Focus gives us, I always look at intermediate passing with quarterbacks in the 10 to 19 range. Can you throw the ball between that intermediate range and move the chains?“
There are a couple of paths Manning could take regarding his college and NFL future.
“There is that opportunity and chance that Arch Manning stays for two years,” Bender explained, citing the patience of the Manning family in years prior. He drew some parallels with Peyton and Eli Manning’s collegiate careers, noting their extensive experiences before declaring for the NFL Draft.
“The only two quarterbacks that have been drafted number one since 1998 that played one season as a starter were [Auburn Tigers] Cam Newton and [Oklahoma Sooners] Kyler Murray. You want a quarterback that’s experienced at the college level.“
Whether Manning will enter the NFL draft after a year or continue at Texas is contingent on several factors, according to Bender.
“If Texas wins the national title, he would have the outlet to go. But the Mannings are very patient. They wanted to make sure he was absolutely ready for this moment.“
The anticipation surrounding Manning’s debut, especially in high-stakes games like the opener against Ohio State, is palpable. “The appetite to see Arch Manning at the college level is really high,” Bender said.
As Arch Manning takes on this critical role at Texas under center, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he navigates this new phase, blending his family legacy with his style and strengths throughout the 2025 season as they look to make to the National Championship in Miami, Florida.
The Longhorns travel to Columbus to face the National Champion Ohio State Buckeyes on August 30 on FOX.
