In just a few months, the Arch Manning era will begin in Texas. After sitting behind Quinn Ewers for the last two years, Manning will be the Longhorns QB 1. Last year, the New Orleans native got some playing time when Ewers was injured. In his limited opportunities, Manning dazzled, providing excitement for what his future holds.
During the 2024 campaign, Manning completed 61 of his 91 passing attempts for 939 yards. He also added nine passing touchdowns to his resume while only throwing two interceptions. His play stood out to many, including USA Today’s National College Football Columnist Blake Toppmeyer. In his SEC QB rankings, Toppmeyer has Manning at the very top.
When breaking down Mannings’s game, Toppmeyer highlighted his potential. In his rankings, Toppmeyer wrote, ” This ranking is based on Manning’s potential for a lofty ceiling after he looked the part of budding star in two spot starts and backup opportunities last season. He should be ready to break out in Year 3 playing for Steve Sarkisian, one of the nation’s top quarterback developers.”
While Toppmeyer’s ranking comes as no surprise, it shows how exciting this coming season could be. The Longhorns are loaded with talent to help Manning succeed. He will also be able to lean on a coaching staff that has excelled at turning college players into NFL draft picks.
Additionally, Manning was joined by elite company. The other players in Toppmeyer’s top five are Garrett Nussmeier, LaNorris Sellers, DJ Lagway, and John Mather. That group should give SEC fans plenty of reasons to cheer during the 2025 campaign.
For Longhorns fans, the start of the season can not come quickly enough. Last year, Texas fell two wins short of winning a national title. With Manning leading the way, they are once again in the conversation for a title. It will all start with a Week 1 matchup against the defending champion Georgia Bulldogs.
Follow us on X/Twitter at @LonghornsWire.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: USA TODAY writer names Arch Manning the best quarterback in the SEC
Reporting by Jamie Gatlin, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
