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 already in hand, Manning came in for starting quarterback Quinn Ewers in the third quarter.
Manning led the last three Longhorn drives of the day, the first two of which ended in touchdowns.
In his season debut, Manning found receiver Johntay Cook II for a gain of 40 yards, putting Texas within 10 yards of the end zone.
Three plays later, Manning showed his magic again, avoiding a sack and throwing the ball to Silas Bolden, who sprinted across the goal line and scored the touchdown.
Arch Manning saw his first action of the season for Texas on Saturday against Colorado State
Manning ran for a touchdown and threw another in the Longhorns’ upset victory
Manning wasn’t done finding the end zone yet, as he capped his next drive with a 1-yard rushing score.
The Texas backup quarterback brings with him certain expectations based on his last name.
While Steve Sarkisian understandably decided not to start Manning because he has one of the best quarterbacks in the country in Ewers, the potential of the Longhorns’ quarterback room should not be underestimated.
Arch has shown that he is more like Archie Manning in terms of size and mobility than his two Super Bowl-winning uncles, Peyton and Eli.
Manning likely has a chance to become Texas’ starter next season as Ewers is potentially moving up to the NFL despite having only one year of eligibility remaining.
The Longhorns face a tough test in Week 2 when they travel to take on national champion Michigan.