There might not be a more publicized backup quarterback in the country than Arch Manning.
Even before he stepped foot on campQuinnus, people across the country were crowning him the next quarterback king of college football, and creating rumors of him challenging incumbent Quinn Ewers for the starting job.
More notably, however, there has been transfer speculation surrounding Manning since nearly the beginning of the season – all of which had no basis in fact or reality.On Saturday, Manning got his chance to clear the air with the Sugar Bowl media in New Orleans, doubling down on his commitment to his future with the Longhorns.
“Obviously there’s always rumors, especially nowadays,’ Manning said. “I haven’t looked into transferring at all. I’m just focused on developing and helping this team any way I can and hopefully, one day playing for the University of Texas like I’ve always wanted to.”
Does that mean it has been easy watching from the sidelines for Manning? Absolutely not.
Manning had never not been the best player on the football field in his life. He had never taken a back seat. He had never not been the center of attention for every fan in every stadium he had ever played in, much less be the backup watching from the sidelines.
“There were a lot of tough days, I’m not going to lie. I was never a backup in high school,” Manning said. “My family, they’re supporting me. Coaches are pushing me. I’m glad I had this year to develop, learn, and grow as a person and a player.
Obviously a big adjustment.
That said, Manning is thankful he was able to sit and learn watching one of college football’s premier QBs in Ewers.
“I think I’ve learned a lot this season,” Manning said. “I learned a lot fromand Maalik (Murphy), Coach Sark, and Coach Milwee. It’s been a fun year of development and I’m excited we’re in this position.
Still, the questions surrounding Manning’s future are unlikely to go away anytime soon. And as of Friday in New Orleans, Ewers has still still not made a decision on whether he will return for another season, or enter the 2024 NFL Draft.
In fact, reports suggest that he is leaning toward returning to school, which would force Manning into a backup role for yet another season.
However, even if Ewers returns, Manning is extremely clear that he has no intention of leaving the University of Texas.
“It’s never fun being a backup and sitting. Each person’s journey is different,” Manning said. “I’m going to work hard, not blink an eye, help Quinn be the best quarterback he can be, and try to get better along the way.”
