The Texas Longhorns returned to the field for the first time since their College Football Playoff semifinal loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes, kicking off spring practice on Tuesday. Head coach Steve Sarkisian is taking a different approach this year, implementing an NFL-style camp.
Like several other programs, Sarkisian opted to cancel the traditional spring game in favor of a new structure focused on development.
Tuesday also marked a big moment for Arch Manning, as he took the field for his first official practice as Texas' full-time starting quarterback. After redshirting his freshman year and serving as Quinn Ewers' backup last season, the keys to the Longhorns' offense now belong to him.
A clip from practice quickly made its way to social media, showing Manning launching a deep ball to sophomore wideout Ryan Wingo. The pass was a tight spiral that landed perfectly into Wingo's hands.
Not a backup anymore pic.twitter.com/M4nh8Qo5NT
— Travis Recek (@TravisRecek) March 25, 2025
Plenty of fans filled the replies, sharing their reactions to Manning's throw.
"What a pretty ball," one fan said.
"His delivery is so flawless," another wrote.
"Oh myyy," another added.
"On the money!!" one wrote.
"Dime," added a fan.
"Inject this into my veins," said another fan.
Although Manning wasn't the full-time starter over the past two seasons, he still saw some action, even making two starts when Ewers was injured.
In his college career so far, the New Orleans native has completed 63-of-95 passes for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions. He's also added 115 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.
Manning and the Longhorns will kick off the 2025 college football season with a highly anticipated rematch against Ohio State on Aug. 30. The game will be played at Ohio Stadium, with the start time yet to be announced.
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This story was originally published March 25, 2025 at 3:49 PM.