Arch Manning was among the most hyped players during the preseason this year, with analysts predicting him to win the Heisman trophy and lead the Longhorns to a national championship without seeing him play enough.
The Manning hype quickly dulled down as the Texas QB was seen struggling at the start of the season and took some time before finding his rhythm.
Nov 22, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up before a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Nov 22, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up before a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Manning now seems to have found his momentum as he continues to show off his talent on the field, as Texas sits at an overall record of 8-3.
Whether Manning will declare for the 2026 NFL draft or not remains a question, as the Texas QB made it clear that he is currently going day to day and focusing on what’s next rather than making decisions about the future.
However, a statement by Nate Tice, where he is predicting Manning to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft if he decides to declare, drew some reactions from the fans.
“Wait. So you telling me a QB’s team who finished top 4 last season, came into the season as the #1 ranked team, and is currently out of the college football tournament because of their current QB, should be drafted #1? Bet.” one fan commented.
“Is Nate Tice related to the Mannings? Because Arch Manning is nowhere close to ready for the speed of the NFL. As a minimum he needs to go back to Texas next year and even then, I have significant doubts about him.” another fan questioned.
“Okie dokie..Nate you are some kind of football expert ? If this was said recently then you have no credibility if it was before the season I’ll give you a pass.” another fan added.
“JJ McCarthy all over again. Trust your eyes. Not what is projected/potential.” another fan said.
“He’s having a decent year but he literallly just got up to speed at the college level.. Throws off his back foot and attempts those Rich Gannon/Maholmes esque throws way too much.” another fan pointed out.
“Bro…. what? Have you even watched this man play football?.” Another fan expressed frustration.
Read more – “Justin Jefferson Jumped on Him”: NFL Fans React As J.J. McCarthy Surprisingly Enters Concussion Protocol After Poor Outing vs. Packers
Steve Sarkisian Heaps Praise on Arch Manning’s Growth in 2025
The Texas head coach, Steve Sarkisian, has had his QB, Arch Manning’s back all throughout the 2025 college football season.
Manning was subjected to a lot of criticism early on in his career as a starter; however, Sarkisian applauded the fact that Manning didn’t pay heed to the outside noise and kept focusing on his growth.
During Monday’s press conference, Sarkisian said he doesn’t know if any other college football player has been through what Manning had to face even before he took on the role of the full-time starter.
Sarkisian appreciated the fact that Manning just kept focusing on what he needed to do while acknowledging that he must’ve felt overwhelmed when it got a lot.
The Texas coach further said he is very proud of Manning for handling everything the program faced in 2025.
“He just kind of kept focusing on what he needed and tried to do. I’m sure there were moments when it was a lot, maybe even overwhelming. But, to his credit, I think, man, the guy showed so much resolve and resiliency and just stick to it-ness, to the task at hand. And, again, it wasn’t a perfect journey to get to this point, but, sometimes, it’s good not to have a perfect journey. Sometimes, taking a road less traveled is good for you.”
The Longhorns have two more games ahead of them as they try to make a place in the 2025 college football playoffs, with the Aggies game being crucial for their fate.
Read more – Watch: Micah Parsons Bends J.J. McCarthy In Half With Viral Sack as Packers Dominate Vikings
For more sports content, follow me here on Gridiron Heroics and get the latest on the world of NFL and college football. From the drama surrounding Shedeur Sanders, the Bill Belichick-Jordan Hudson tea, and Brittany Mahomes’ stylish looks to Taylor Swift’s appearances on game days, this will be your one-stop shop for all NFL and college football stuff. To read more of our articles and keep up-to-date on the latest sports news, click here!