Arch Manning didn’t start in Texas’ season opener against Colorado State, but he got plenty of time to shine.
The Longhorns destroyed the Rams 52-0 on Saturday night. With the game in hand, Manning entered the game in place of starting quarterback Quinn Ewers in the third quarter.
Manning led the Longhorns’ final three drives of the day, with the first two ending in touchdowns.
On his season-opening play, Manning found receiver Johntay Cook II for a 40-yard gain to put Texas within 10 yards of the end zone.
Three plays later, Manning worked his magic again, avoiding a sack and passing the ball to Silas Bolden, who ran over the goal line for the touchdown.
Arch Manning saw his first action of the season for Texas on Saturday against Colorado State.
Manning ran for a touchdown and also threw for another in the Longhorns’ blowout victory.
Manning didn’t quite find the end zone, as he capped his next drive with a 1-yard rushing touchdown.
Texas’ backup quarterback comes with certain expectations based on his last name.
While Steve Sarkisian understandably made the decision not to start Manning, given that he has one of the best quarterbacks in the country in Ewers, the potential in the Longhorns’ quarterback room cannot be understated.
Arch has proven that he looks more like Archie Manning when he plays, due to his size and mobility, than either of his Super Bowl-winning uncles, Peyton and Eli.
Manning is likely on track to be Texas’ starter next season, as Ewers could jump to the NFL despite having one year of eligibility remaining.
The Longhorns face a tough test in Week 2, when they travel to face national champion Michigan.
