The anticipation in Austin is reaching a fever pitch as Arch Manning, the latest scion of football’s most famous family, officially takes the reins as Texas’ starting quarterback. On Saturday, August 30, 2025, Manning will lead the No. 1-ranked Longhorns into a season-opening clash against No. 3 Ohio State—a blockbuster matchup that promises fireworks and intrigue for college football fans everywhere. For Manning, it’s the culmination of two years spent learning, waiting, and growing behind Quinn Ewers, and now, the moment to show the nation what all the hype has been about.
The Manning name is synonymous with football greatness, and Arch is well aware of the expectations that come with it. His grandfather Archie electrified crowds at Ole Miss and in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints, while uncles Peyton and Eli combined for four Super Bowl rings and a mountain of accolades. Yet, despite the glare of the spotlight—and the added intensity of social media scrutiny—Manning has carved out his own path in Austin, blending humility with a quiet confidence that’s won him fans among teammates and coaches alike.
“I’m excited,” Manning said earlier this week. “This is what I’ve been waiting for. I spent two years not playing, so might as well go have fun, right?” That easygoing attitude belies the pressure he faces, but Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian believes it’s one of Manning’s greatest strengths. “Arch is a great kid. I just feel like he’s normal. And that’s what I love about him. He’s not some guy who feels like he’s untouchable, he’s better than everybody else. He doesn’t do life like that,” Sarkisian said, noting that Manning’s grounded nature has earned “a lot of respect from his teammates and coaches.”
While Manning’s persona may be low-key, his presence off the field is anything but. He’s already become one of the most marketable athletes in college sports, with endorsement deals from Red Bull, Uber, Vuori, and Panini. Just this week, he announced a new partnership with Warby Parker, the eyewear company—an especially fitting collaboration, as Manning has worn glasses since he was three. The first commercial in this partnership is set to debut during Saturday’s game, adding yet another layer of anticipation to an already electric atmosphere.
But for all the glitz and attention, Manning has shown remarkable patience and loyalty. In an era when top recruits often transfer at the first sign of adversity, Manning stayed put, determined to earn his shot at Texas. “I want to be the quarterback at the University of Texas. Sometimes it’s worth the wait,” he said. “I’m ready to play.” For now, he’s focused on the season ahead and hasn’t committed to returning for another year or making the leap to the NFL. “I dreamed of being in this position and I’m not going to take it for granted,” Manning said. For Texas fans, that’s music to their ears.
Of course, the football world is eager to see how Manning performs on the field. He’s no stranger to action, having started two games last season when Ewers was injured and appearing in several key spots. Manning finished the year with 939 passing yards and nine touchdowns, including Texas’ first SEC victory against Mississippi State. His athleticism—highlighted by a 67-yard touchdown run against UTSA—gives the Longhorns a new dimension at quarterback, something that’s not lost on former Texas legend Colt McCoy.
McCoy, who knows a thing or two about stepping into the limelight as Texas’ starting QB, offered a candid assessment of Manning’s prospects. “I think there’s some challenges, right?” McCoy told CBS Sports. “You’re starting four, potentially five new offensive linemen. That’s a huge challenge with a quarterback who’s only played three games. I mean, a massive challenge. It doesn’t get talked about enough. That’s a reality, and that’s going to be hard.”
Indeed, Manning has thrown just 95 college passes heading into the 2025 campaign, and he’ll be working with a revamped offense. Texas lost its top three pass catchers from last season and is expected to start as many as four new faces on the offensive line. The chemistry and communication required to succeed in a hostile environment like Ohio State’s stadium—where the crowd noise can be deafening—will test Manning and his supporting cast from the opening snap.
McCoy also pointed out that Manning’s aggressive style could be a double-edged sword. Last season, Manning pushed the ball downfield more often than his predecessor, averaging an 11.1-yard depth of target compared to Ewers’ 7.9 yards. He also tended to hold onto the ball longer, a habit that can lead to big plays but also increases the risk of sacks or turnovers. “For a young guy, always wanting to make the big play… you got to learn those things as a young player,” McCoy said. “Never throwing it away, not sliding and getting down.”
Still, Manning’s athleticism opens up the playbook for coach Sarkisian. Unlike Ewers, who wasn’t much of a threat as a runner, Manning averaged 4.3 yards per carry on 25 attempts, and his mobility could create headaches for opposing defenses. “I think Arch can make a couple of first downs with his feet. I think it gives you the flexibility to call some bootlegs and keepers and naked and, you know, take some shots down the field,” McCoy explained. “When plays break down, he has a chance to do something creative. And I think that’s a unique skill set.”
Football IQ is another area where Manning shines. Raised in a family where football is the family business, he’s been absorbing knowledge from the best since he could walk. “One thing about Arch that I love is his football IQ is off the charts,” McCoy said. “Like he knows he’s got the best front seven in college football and knows the defense isn’t going to just give up a ton of points every game. Like, it’s okay to play field position here and there. You know, it’s okay to punt, it’s okay to kick. Take care of the football and you know score when you can. Take risk when you need to, but those are all just like things as a young player that you only learn through experience.”
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Texas. The Longhorns enter the season ranked No. 1 for the first time in program history, having reached the College Football Playoff semifinals each of the past two years. But Ohio State, the defending national champion, stands in their way—having knocked Texas out en route to last season’s title. The schedule doesn’t get any easier, with road games looming against Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M.
For fans eager to soak in the excitement, CultureMap’s big fall sports bash, The Tailgate, will take place September 25 at Distribution Hall in Austin. There, supporters can mingle with Texas sports legends, enjoy bites from top local chefs, and relive the highs and lows of what promises to be a memorable season.
As Manning and the Longhorns prepare to take the field, one thing is clear: the eyes of Texas—and the college football world—are upon them. The journey begins now, and with Arch Manning at the helm, every snap will be must-see TV. Whether he delivers on the immense promise or faces growing pains, the story of Texas’ 2025 season is set to be one for the ages.
