As the dust settles on the 2024 college football season, Texas quarterback Arch Manning is already looking ahead to what promises to be a pivotal year in his career. Following the Longhorns’ recent defeat to Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, Manning is ready to step into the spotlight as the team’s full-time starter. After spending the past two seasons primarily in a reserve role, the time has come for him to showcase his skills on the big stage.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With the 2025 season on the horizon, Manning is filled with anticipation. He recently shared insights from his conversation with former starter Quinn Ewers, who has now transitioned to the NFL after leading Texas to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff in 2024. Ewers, who had a remarkable journey at Texas, knows all too well how fleeting college football can be.
Words of Wisdom from Quinn Ewers
“Kind of right after the Ohio State game I was with Quinn in the locker room,” Manning recalled. “He was just like, ‘Enjoy every moment. It goes by quickly. So love on your teammates and have fun.’”
This advice resonates deeply with Manning, who is eager to embrace every moment of his upcoming season. Ewers’ journey from a highly touted recruit at Ohio State to a standout at Texas serves as a reminder of how quickly time can pass in college football.
Guidance from Coach Sarkisian
In addition to Ewers’ encouragement, Manning has also received valuable advice from Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Longhorns. “Coach Sark just told me to be myself and be a leader and work hard and it’ll all work out,” Manning shared. This guidance is crucial as he prepares to take on the responsibilities of leading the Texas football team.
Past Performance and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on his performance from the previous season, Manning started two games while Ewers was sidelined due to injury, leading Texas to victories over ULM and Mississippi State. In those games, he showcased his potential, finishing the season with impressive stats: 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions, all while completing 67.8 percent of his passes. Additionally, he rushed for 108 yards and four touchdowns, proving he can be a dual-threat quarterback.
“I think my first start against ULM I kind of forced some shots downfield and was a little bit greedy,” Manning admitted. “But then the next week against Mississippi State, I settled in.” His journey has been a learning experience, and he’s ready to apply those lessons as he steps into a more prominent role.
Embracing the Challenge
Manning’s excitement is palpable as he prepares for the challenges ahead. “The hardest part was you get a little taste of what it’s like and you love it. And then you go back to not playing. That was pretty tough,” he reflected. This sentiment reveals his passion for the game and his eagerness to contribute more significantly to the team’s success.
Despite the ups and downs, Manning remains optimistic. “I haven’t really played much, so I guess it hasn’t really started. But it’s been fun. I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve learned a lot. I love my coaches, love my teammates. So I’m ready to get it rolling.” His enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear that he is prepared to embrace the challenges that come with being the starting quarterback for Texas.
The Road Ahead
As Manning gears up for the 2025 season, he carries the weight of expectations but also the support of his teammates and coaches. The Longhorns are looking to build on their recent success and make a deeper run in the playoffs. With Manning at the helm, fans are eager to see how he will lead the team and what new heights he can reach.
In a sport where every moment counts, Manning’s commitment to enjoying the journey while striving for excellence will be crucial. He’s ready to make his mark, and the Longhorns are poised for an exciting season ahead. Will 2025 be the year that Arch Manning truly shines? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the future looks bright for this talented quarterback and the Texas Longhorns.
