During the Manning Passing Academy, Archie Manning reflected on the immense expectations his grandson faced before taking over as Texas’ full-time starter. While he is proud of how Arch handled the pressure, the former NFL star said that the media set unrealistic expectations on Arch before the season even began.
Those comments quickly sparked debate across social media, with many college football fans arguing that these expectations come with being from Manning family.
While some appreciated Archie defending his grandson, plenty of fans pushed back on social media.
One fan dismissed the comments entirely writing: “Already making excuses LMAO.”
Another questioned why the hype continues: “So the question arises, why are they crowning him again this year? He did nothing special last year!”
“He’s highly paid. It comes with the territory. Toughen up,” another wrote.
“His family literally added to the hype so I don’t know what those spoiled nepo baby’s are complaining about.” – one user argued.
“When expectations are that high…. meeting them is the only option,” a user wrote.
One wrote: “Fans have this weird hate for that kid like he asked to have his last name. He just wants to play ball”
The Manning Family Backs Arch As Expectations Increases
Speaking with KXAN’s Noah Gross, Archie Manning explained why he felt the hype surrounding Arch became excessive even before he had an opportunity to prove himself on the field.
“I was kind of disappointed in a lot of people. The whole thing,” Archie Manning said. “They kind of crowned Arch before he ever played. I just didn’t think that was fair.”
Despite a slow start, Archie praised the way his grandson played throughout the season.
“It was a little tough start. He played a great team. But I’ve never been more proud of anybody in my life. The way Arch battled through what he had to go through last year, and the way he played the last eight or nine games of the season.”
Earlier even Eli Manning admitted that he has Arch’s back covered if he needs anything.
“I think it’s great. I mean, I love it. I support Arch and been watching him throw since he was little and always just kind of be like, ‘Hey, if you need anything, I’m here for you. Any questions about whatever.’ – he said on Bussin’ With The Boys.
Arch played 13 games in total last season and recorded 3,163 passing yards, 26 passing touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in total.
Despite the criticism online, Arch is one of the leading Heisman Trophy candidates entering the 2026 sason. So whether fans believe the preseason hype is deserved or not, the spotlight isn’t gonna go away from him.
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