Arch Manning’s era in Texas is about to take center stage, and his famous uncle Peyton Manning, along with college football fans nationwide, is eagerly anticipating his debut in Austin.
This week, Peyton, an NFL legend with five MVP titles and two Super Bowl victories under his belt, appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show” to chat about his nephew, Arch. Entering what could be a breakout season, Arch is slated to start full-time for the Longhorns after splitting time in his first two years behind Quinn Ewers. In an era where the transfer portal is hot and players often jump ship for starting opportunities, Arch’s decision to stick around and learn the system might be the secret sauce he needs.
“He’s been patient,” Peyton shared. He’s a big advocate for sticking with a game plan. “I’m a firm believer in really mastering the system you’re in. Constantly dealing with new coordinators is a headache no player wants. With coach Steve Sarkisian calling the plays, and Arch spending two years soaking up the system, that’s a game-changer for him. I can’t wait to see what he delivers on the field. He’s really put in the work.”
Ranked as the top prospect of the Class of 2023, Arch made waves when he committed to Texas out of Isidore Newman High School in New Orleans—a move that put him under the spotlight. Born into one of football’s most storied families, Arch’s entrance into college football brings with it an undeniable buzz. The spotlight could very well elevate the Longhorns’ status in preseason polls.
While Peyton and Eli Manning offer their wisdom, it’s Arch’s dad, Cooper Manning, who’s been his guiding force. Peyton amusingly remarked, “The swagger? That’s all from his dad. Cooper was that confident wide receiver always bemoaning the lack of passes his way. My sophomore year, Cooper hauled in 90 out of 120 passes I threw. He thinks he should’ve gotten all 120.”
Arch recently attended the Manning Passing Academy alongside other top-tier college quarterbacks, including LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers. Peyton lauded the rising stars, acknowledging their impressive throws that pushed even his boundaries.
The insert of some genetically inherited speed just might be Arch’s edge over his uncles. “For some reason, our dad’s speed missed Eli and me,” Peyton chuckled. “But Arch seems to have picked it up. Yet, for any quarterback, delivering from the pocket, timing, and avoiding hits is crucial. And that’s what I discussed with them—know your game plan, know your options, and when the situation calls for it, use your legs to make the play. Arch gets that.”
The Longhorns will kick off their season with a showdown against Ohio State on Aug. 30, in an electric rematch from last year’s College Football Playoff semifinal. Fans won’t have to wait long for the action in Austin, with their first home game set for Sept. 6 against San Jose State.
