Disappointing Performance from Star Quarterback Arch Manning Raises Questions About Draft Stock
#college_football #nfl_draft #quarterback #university_of_texas #arch_manning
Introduction
Heading into the 2025 college football season, all eyes were on the University of Texas and their star quarterback Arch Manning. With Texas being the number one team in the country and Manning being the favorite to go first overall in the 2026 NFL draft, expectations were high. However, things did not go as planned for the Longhorns and Manning.
Disappointing Performance
In a highly anticipated matchup against Ohio State, Manning struggled and was unable to lead his team to victory. He completed just 50% of his passes and threw two interceptions, resulting in a 28-21 loss for Texas. This was a surprising and disappointing performance from the highly touted quarterback.
Impact on Draft Stock
The loss to Ohio State has raised questions about Manning's draft stock. Many NFL scouts and analysts are now questioning whether he truly has what it takes to be a top pick in the draft. His performance in this game has certainly hurt his chances, and he will need to bounce back in the remaining games of the season to regain his position at the top of the draft board.
About the People Mentioned
Arch Manning
Arch Manning, born in May 2005, is an American college football quarterback currently playing for the University of Texas Longhorns. He is a member of the renowned Manning football family, which includes his grandfather Archie Manning and uncles Peyton and Eli Manning, all of whom have had distinguished NFL careers[1][5]. Arch emerged as one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in recent years, having shattered passing records at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, surpassing marks set by his famous uncles[1]. After joining Texas as the consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2023 class, Manning redshirted his first year before seeing limited but impressive action as a sophomore. His breakout came after stepping in for injured starter Quinn Ewers, notably delivering a dynamic performance against UTSA featuring multiple long touchdown plays both passing and rushing. In eight games, he completed 67% of his passes for 969 yards, 9 touchdowns, and only 2 interceptions, earning SEC Co-Freshman of the Week honors and a spot on the Davey O’Brien Great 8 list[1][4]. Arch has drawn significant media attention and lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) endorsement deals, including with Red Bull, reflecting his status as a leading college football prospect and one of the highest-paid college athletes. He is also on preseason watch lists for several major awards in 2025, such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and the Maxwell Award[4][5][6]. Known for his quick release, strong arm, and mobility, Arch combines the skills inherited and refined within the Manning family’s quarterback legacy with his own unique playmaking ability. He is widely regarded as a potential top NFL draft pick, with considerable anticipation surrounding his collegiate and future professional career[1][5].
About the Organizations Mentioned
University of Texas
The **University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)**, founded in 1883, is a flagship public research university and the largest institution in the University of Texas System, serving around 55,000 students as of 2025[1][2][3]. Located in Austin, a hub for technology and entrepreneurship, UT Austin is renowned for its ambitious academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus culture, making it a leading institution in business, technology, and innovation[2][3]. UT Austin boasts 18 colleges and schools with 76 programs ranked in the top 10 nationally, attracting over $1.14 billion annually in research funding[2]. Its research enterprise is extensive, featuring numerous institutes and facilities such as the J. J. Pickle Research Campus and McDonald Observatory, supporting breakthroughs in sciences, engineering, and technology[3]. The university’s strong emphasis on research fosters an environment where undergraduates and graduates engage with faculty on innovative projects, enhancing their academic and professional development[4]. Historically, UT Austin has been a pioneering institution, joining the Association of American Universities in 1929 and accruing a distinguished list of affiliates, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, Turing Award recipients, and Olympic medalists[3]. It also has a rich athletic tradition through the Texas Longhorns, with multiple NCAA championships across football, baseball, and swimming, contributing to a strong school spirit and national recognition[3]. In recent years, UT Austin has experienced record-breaking growth in student demand, with a 24.4% increase in freshman applications in 2025 and enrollment hitting all-time highs[1]. The student body is diverse, with a significant proportion of Texas residents, out-of-state students, first-generation college attendees, and international students[1]. The university maintains a competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate around 29% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, ensuring quality education and engagement[4
