Arch Manning is stepping into the spotlight as he prepares to lead the Texas Longhorns offense in 2025. After patiently waiting behind Quinn Ewers, Manning proved his worth last season by completing 67.8% of his passes for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions. When Ewers was sidelined due to an injury, Manning stepped up confidently, gaining crucial experience and showing his potential to lead the team. Growing up with a rich football legacy and a lifelong dream of playing for Texas, Manning displayed extraordinary patience and determination while waiting for his turn.
With Ewers likely heading to the NFL, Manning’s time has come, sparking excitement among Texas fans. Head coach Steve Sarkisian, credited with reviving the Longhorns’ program, is committed to building on recent successes. National analysts are already making bold predictions about Manning’s impact. His natural talent, coupled with Sarkisian’s strategic leadership, positions Texas as a strong contender for a national championship. The mantra among fans is clear: “It’s Arch time.”
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One notable prediction from a national recruiting director suggests Texas may stumble in their 2025 opener against Ohio State, leading to media speculation about Manning. However, the Longhorns are then expected to recover, potentially securing a spot in the College Football Playoff and ending the season with a national title. With Manning under center, the team seems poised for greatness.
Manning’s stats from his limited playing time last season back up the hype. He stepped in for two games against Mississippi State and Louisiana Monroe, completing 68.3% of his passes for 583 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also demonstrated his mobility, rushing for 108 yards and scoring four times. By the season’s end, he had accumulated nine passing touchdowns and only two interceptions, setting the stage for a breakout season.
Texas fans have been waiting for another national title since 2005. Sarkisian, now in his fourth year, has transformed the team into a consistent powerhouse with a 38-17 record, including an impressive 25-5 mark over the last two seasons. The Longhorns have made two College Football Playoff appearances under his leadership, though they fell short in the semifinals each time.
The upcoming season brings renewed hope for the Longhorns. Manning’s potential, Sarkisian’s coaching, and the dedication of a passionate fanbase create a sense that the team might finally break through and claim another championship. Sarkisian’s commitment to Texas has been solidified with a seven-year contract extension, keeping him in Austin through 2031. Despite interest from NFL teams, Sarkisian has chosen to remain with the program, citing his belief in its future and in Manning as the team’s quarterback.
Sarkisian’s coaching record across his career, which includes stints at Washington, USC, and Texas, stands at 84-52, with a .618 winning percentage and a 4-5 bowl game record. Texas’ transition to the SEC has been smooth, with the team quickly making a name for itself in its new conference. Though the Longhorns fell short in the SEC Championship and Cotton Bowl, their consistent improvement under Sarkisian has been evident, culminating in a 13-win season in 2024.
With Manning now leading the offense, many are optimistic about the Longhorns’ prospects. Even former Heisman winner Johnny Manziel, who grew up rooting for Texas despite attending Texas A&M, expressed confidence in Manning, calling him the kind of quarterback Texas fans have been eager to see. The team’s transition from Ewers to Manning appears seamless, but the true test will come on the field in 2025.
Can Arch Manning live up to the hype and deliver a national title for Texas? With a strong foundation, an elite coaching staff, and a promising quarterback, the Longhorns are aiming to make their long-awaited return to college football’s pinnacle. The upcoming season will determine whether this is Manning’s moment to shine or just another chapter in the team’s ongoing quest for greatness.