![Arch Manning | Colin Cowherd [Inset] (Credits: Imagn)](https://collegefootballnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/colin-cowherd-makes-feelings-very-08-25-25.png "Colin Cowherd Makes Feelings Very Clear On Arch Manning's")
Arch Manning is set to make his long-awaited debut as the starting quarterback for Texas when the Longhorns open their season against defending national champion Ohio State. The spotlight on Saturday night will be as bright as any in college football, and one national voice believes Manning is uniquely prepared for the moment.
During a recent “Joel Klatt Show” appearance, analyst Colin Cowherd spoke at length about what sets the Manning family apart.
“Well, I think all the Mannings that I know, um, Eli probably best of all, Cooper best of all, Eli, they’re all self-deprecating. And what does that mean? They all have a very strong sense of self. They’re not insecure. They’re self-deprecating. They can laugh at themselves,” Cowherd said, while adding how all the Mannings share humility.
Cowherd said that quality should help Arch manage the inevitable pressure, and Texas might be at an advantage in being led by someone from ‘football royalty,’ Manning.
“Do you know how many big games Arch has gone to that weren’t his, but like it’s like the Mannings are American football royalty. In the history of the sport, there’s this one family that is royalty.”
Manning, a redshirt sophomore, inherits the job after two seasons behind Quinn Ewers, who led Texas to a College Football Playoff title game berth last year. His first start comes against a Buckeyes team ranked No. 1 in the preseason and favored to repeat. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin.
Arch Manning Takes Clear Stance on Full-Time Starter Role in Texas
Arch Manning has waited two years for his chance to become the full-time starter at Texas. Now the spotlight arrives with one of the toughest possible openers, with a clash with defending national champion Ohio State.
However, Arch clarified how nerves won’t be an issue once the game kicks off.
“I get kinda nervous in the hotel… kinda anxious. Once I’m out there, it’s time to roll,” Manning said on August 19, when asked about the weight of stepping into the starting role.
Does Arch Manning get nervous?
“Once I’m out there… it’s time to roll!” pic.twitter.com/ERbg43GvK4
— Orangebloods.com (@orangebloods_) August 19, 2025
Manning saw spot duty last year, finishing with 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, two interceptions, and a 67.8% completion rate. Meanwhile, his debut as the full-time starter will not be a soft landing. Ohio State’s defense is loaded with playmakers, including safeties Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs, and there is much chatter around five-star freshman cornerback Devin Sanchez. The trio gives the Buckeyes one of the deepest secondaries in the nation, a unit designed to test young quarterbacks.
The game also offers intrigue under center for Ohio State. The Buckeyes are handing the ball to Julian Sayin, who is a former five-star prospect and ranked among the best in the Class of 2024. Like Manning, Sayin has never been a full-time starter in college football, but expectations in Columbus remain sky-high.
Read More: Oregon Ducks Football Recruiting: Top 3 Prospects Who Can Change The Game For Dan Lanning’s Squad
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