Texas is getting ready for its tough season opener against Ohio State later this week. The game is set to be the highlight of Week 1 of college football, pitting the No. 3 school in the nation and the reigning national champions against the No. 1 school in the country. Both programs are the current favorites to win the national title this season.
Speaking on Monday with the press, Longhorns boss Steve Sarkisian wanted to manage expectations a little ahead of their season opener, explaining that the first weeks of the season can be a bit of an adjustment, especially for freshmen:
“I think it’s development. These guys come in and we can’t get them ready to do everything, so you’re just trying to put them in position to do some of the things that they do well.”
Sarkisian also highlighted Ryan Wingo as someone who successfully did that transition in his freshman year:
“Ryan was a great example of that a year ago. We ran reverses and shots downfield with him. All the while, we’re trying to develop his game to be a more complete player. To his credit, like Anthony (Hill) the most important thing in Ryan Wingo’s life is being a great football player.”
Steve Sarkisian on Ryan Wingo: “I think it’s development. These guys come in and we can’t get them ready to do everything, so you’re just trying to put them in position to do some of the things that they do well.
Ryan was a great example of that a year ago. We ran reverses and…
— Inside Texas (@InsideTexas) August 25, 2025
Ryan Wingo had a successful first season with Texas, recording 472 receiving yards, with two touchdowns in 29 receptions.
Steve Sarkisian on Arch Manning’s involvement with the program
In the same press conference, Steve Sarkisian spoke about the growth and progress Arch Manning has made over the last two seasons on the bench. For the coach, the fame Manning has achieved hasn’t gone to his head:
“He’s bought into every aspect of our program, he’s been a great teammate, and he’s worked very hard. But at the end of the day, I feel like he’s normal. He doesn’t act like a guy who is untouchable. He’s stayed true to who he is.”
Sark on the growth of Arch Manning, the human being:
“He’s bought into every aspect of our program, he’s been a great teammate, and he’s worked very hard. But at the end of the day, I feel like he’s normal. He doesn’t act like a guy who is untouchable. He’s stayed true to who he…
— AM 1300 The Zone (@am1300thezone) August 25, 2025
Arch Manning’s first season as a full-fledged starter is one of the most anticipated developments in college football. For two seasons now, he has been one of Texas’ most popular players despite being on the bench and in great part thanks to his famous last name.
While he had the chance to show his potential during a couple of games last season, now it’s Manning’s chance to shine. On Saturday, he’ll go against another highly rated, yet inexperienced quarterback, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin.
Related:
“Never Be Photographed Drinking”: Insider Reveals Eli Manning’s Candid Advice to Texas’ Arch Manning
Texas’ Steve Sarkisian Gives Fans Insight on Using Arch Manning Differently Than Quinn Ewers in 2025
Days Before Texas’ Opener vs Ohio State, Joel Klatt Sets Clear Expectations From QB Julian Sayin
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
