The spotlight on Arch Manning has never been brighter as he begins his journey for the Texas Longhorns after Quinn Ewers’ departure. Naturally, analysts are weighing in on what lies ahead, especially with a massive Week 1 test against Ohio State.
The buildup began earlier this week when former quarterback Jordan Rodgers made waves on “Get Up,” claiming the “hype doesn’t match the tape” on Manning.
On Thursday’s show, college football analyst Greg McElroy and draft expert Mel Kiper pushed back on that criticism. McElroy cited Manning’s limited action last season as evidence of why optimism is justified, particularly his performance against Mississippi State.
“Maybe Arch is better than I thought,” McElroy said. “His game against Mississippi State was off the charts. Look at the pocket presence, the athleticism…those are special traits.”
Kiper, however, pointed to the magnitude of Manning’s opening test and the patience required to judge him fairly. Texas travels to Columbus on Aug. 30 to face Ohio State in a high-noon kickoff at Ohio Stadium, dubbed one of college football’s toughest environments.
“The expectations and the pressure is immense for this kid,” Kiper said. “At Ohio State, against Matt Patricia’s defense, that’s not easy. If he struggles, it’s not the end of the world.”
Kiper stressed that Manning’s season, or even his career, won’t hinge on one game.
“He only had two starts last year. He could end up with 17 by the end of this year,” he said adding, “He can come back next year, and we anticipate he will.”
“48 years I’ve been covering college football … never remember a game as anticipated as this one.”
—@MelKiperESPN on Arch Manning and Texas vs. Ohio State pic.twitter.com/cOyAXKxFDO
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) August 28, 2025
Manning has already delivered flashes as Quinn Ewers’ backup quarterback, completing 63 of 95 career passes for 969 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions, adding 115 rushing yards and four scores on the ground. His family has signaled patience as his grandfather and NFL great Archie Manning recently indicated that the football prodigy will return to Texas in 2026, though Arch himself hasn’t fully committed.
For now, all eyes are on Columbus, as this is Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns’ heavyweight opener.
Arch Manning Reflects on Mindset Ahead of Texas vs. Ohio State Week 1 Showdown
Arch Manning isn’t letting nerves creep in as the Texas Longhorns prepare for a high-stakes Week 1 matchup against the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. The junior quarterback, widely projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, knows all eyes will be on him when the defending champions hit the field in Austin.
On Aug. 23, Manning admitted that the pregame hours can bring some nerves, but his focus takes over once the ball is kicked off.
“I get kinda nervous in the hotel… kinda anxious,” Manning said. “Once I’m out there, it’s time to roll.”
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
That mindset will be critical as Texas looks to defend its national championship. The matchup also brings added intrigue as the Longhorns try to contain wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a superstar who can flip a game in one play. Texas managed to slow him down in last year’s playoff meeting, but Ohio State’s offensive depth ensures this will be no easy task.
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