Arch Manning, a redshirt freshman quarterback, will make his first collegiate start against Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian revealed during Thursday’s media press conference.
Manning will replace sophomore quarterback Quinn Ewers, who hurt his oblique early in the second quarter of last week’s game against UTSA. Sarkisian stated that Ewers “has made great strides” since then, but decided to give him another week off to ensure the season’s duration.”Getting him possibly one more week healthier for the long term, I think, (will be) good for us,” Mr. Sarkisian said.
The former No. 1 overall player in the 2023 class contributed significantly to the Longhorns’ electrifying attack. Manning connected with sophomore wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. for a 19-yard touchdown on his opening play, followed by a 67-yard scramble a few possessions later. He finished the night completing 9 of 12 passes for 223 yards in the 56-7 victory and has five touchdowns in two games this season.
Manning also served as a mop-up in Texas’ 52-0 season opener victory over Colorado State, totaling 95 yards on 5-of-6 passing with one score.
“Arch (Manning) is more than capable, as I think we all know,” he remarked. “He’s got a lot of confidence from his teammates.”
Manning’s effort helped Texas earn the top spot in the latest AP Poll for the first time since 2008. The Longhorns are currently 44.5-point favorites over the 2-0 ULM, with kickoff at 7 p.m. Saturday at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
There is still no word on Ewers’ return date, but he is expected to resume his position in the first unit. Texas’ maiden season in the Southeastern Conference begins next week against Mississippi State.
Despite Ewers’ absence due to injury, Sarkisian believes Manning is ready to start.”(It’s a) different challenge for him, but I know that he’ll be more than ready to go out and play football at a high level for us,” he said.
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