Arch Manning Named Texas QB1 for Week 4 as Ewers Recovers from Injury

The Texas Longhorns have announced that redshirt freshman quarterback Arch Manning will be the starter for Week 4 against UL Monroe at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday. This game marks a significant milestone for Manning, as it will be his first career start.

Manning steps into this role following an abdominal injury to incumbent quarterback Quinn Ewers. During the previous game against UTSA, which saw Texas dominate with a 56-7 victory, Manning showcased his abilities impressively. He threw for 223 yards and four touchdowns, while also contributing a remarkable 67-yard rushing touchdown.

The Longhorns’ defense, known for its exceptional performance this season, has only allowed two touchdowns and a total of 19 points. Their support will be crucial as Manning navigates his first start and strives to maintain the team’s undefeated record.

Texas has not held the top position in the Associated Press Poll since 2008, when Colt McCoy was at the helm. Manning’s debut comes with the weight of this legacy, as the team seeks to solidify its standing in the rankings.

Arch Manning, the new quarterback for Texas, hails from a family with deep football roots. He is the son of Cooper Manning, the grandson of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, and the nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning. Arch made his commitment to the University of Texas in 2023 and is now officially classified as a redshirt freshman for the current season.

Cooper, Arch’s father, is also a former player who attended Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, the same school where Arch went. While he played college football at Ole Miss, Cooper’s career was cut short due to a diagnosis of spinal stenosis.

Archie Manning, Arch’s grandfather, enjoyed a robust football career. After playing for the Ole Miss Rebels in college, he spent 14 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the New Orleans Saints. His contributions to the game were recognized with an induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989.

Peyton Manning, Arch’s uncle, is well-known in football circles. He played for the Tennessee Volunteers before being selected as the first overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Over an illustrious career spanning 18 seasons, he captured two Super Bowl titles—one with the Colts in 2007 and another with the Denver Broncos in 2016.

Arch’s other uncle, Eli Manning, is also a significant figure in the sport. He played college football at Ole Miss and was the first overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, initially chosen by the San Diego Chargers before being traded to the New York Giants. Eli spent 16 successful seasons with the Giants, leading the team to Super Bowl victories in both 2008 and 2012.

The legacy of the Manning family has undoubtedly influenced Arch’s approach to football and his aspirations within the sport. With such a strong lineage behind him, expectations are high as he prepares to take on the challenge of starting as the quarterback for a prestigious program like Texas.

As Arch Manning steps into this pivotal role, all eyes will be on him, eager to see how he performs and whether he can add to the storied history of the Longhorns while navigating the pressures that come with being part of a legendary football family.

Source: USA TODAY