If Sarkisian Wants to Make a Playoff Run, He Must Start Arch Manning Now, Not Later

The Texas Longhorns’ football program has undergone a remarkable transformation under head coach Steve Sarkisian. From a team struggling to meet expectations to one poised to contend for a national title, Texas is back in the conversation as a potential playoff contender. However, if the Longhorns are to make a serious push for a playoff berth and, ultimately, the championship, there is one crucial decision that must be made—Steve Sarkisian must start Arch Manning at quarterback, and he must do it now, not later.

Manning, the highly touted freshman out of New Orleans, comes from football royalty. As the grandson of Archie Manning, the son of Peyton Manning, and the nephew of Eli Manning, Arch’s name carries a legacy that precedes him. Though this puts immense pressure on him, it also sets the stage for the kind of player the Longhorns need to propel them to the next level. It is no secret that Texas has struggled at the quarterback position in recent years, with inconsistent play from past starters failing to provide the necessary stability for the team to reach its potential. While veteran quarterbacks like Quinn Ewers have shown flashes of brilliance, Sarkisian has a rare opportunity to insert a true game-changing talent in Manning. This decision could prove to be the key to unlocking the Longhorns’ playoff aspirations.

The Case for Arch Manning

1. Talent and Potential
   Arch Manning is not just any freshman quarterback; he is arguably the most hyped quarterback recruit in the history of college football. His high school career at Isidore Newman in New Orleans was nothing short of spectacular, with Manning consistently demonstrating elite physical attributes, mental acuity, and a football IQ far beyond his years. His ability to read defenses, his arm strength, and his poise in the pocket are traits that place him in the upper echelon of quarterbacks before he’s even taken a snap in college football.

   What makes Manning even more enticing is his preparedness. Many top recruits enter college with raw potential, requiring time to develop into their final form. Manning, however, enters Texas ready to compete. He’s been coached by some of the best in the business, both on the field and in terms of his family’s football pedigree. His time in high school was marked by playing under pressure and living up to expectations, which will serve him well in the high-stakes environment of college football.

2. Consistency and Stability
   Texas has struggled with consistency at the quarterback position in recent seasons. Players like Sam Ehlinger, Casey Thompson, and Quinn Ewers have all shown flashes of greatness, but none have consistently delivered the elite play that a program of Texas’ caliber requires. Sarkisian’s offense is predicated on a quarterback who can not only execute his plays but also make adjustments on the fly, read defenses, and lead with confidence.

   While Quinn Ewers has shown growth under Sarkisian, he has also demonstrated inconsistencies—especially in big moments. His decision-making, especially under pressure, has at times been a cause for concern. Ewers’ performance, particularly in critical games, has not been consistent enough to give the Longhorns the confidence that they can win it all with him at the helm. Arch Manning, on the other hand, has the potential to be the answer. His poise, arm talent, and ability to read defenses could provide the stability Texas has been lacking. With a clear, decisive leader at quarterback, the offense could finally reach its full potential.

3. Building for the Future
   Starting Manning now gives Texas not only the best chance at a playoff run this season but also a long-term solution at quarterback. Manning, despite being a freshman, possesses the kind of maturity and readiness that makes him a viable option right away. While it’s tempting to let a senior quarterback like Ewers finish his career with the Longhorns, Sarkisian must think about the future of the program. Arch Manning is the future of Texas football, and the sooner he is on the field, the sooner he can develop into a generational talent that will carry the team for years to come.

   By starting Manning now, Sarkisian gives him an opportunity to grow and adjust to the college game while still competing at the highest level. The experience Manning would gain by being thrust into high-pressure situations this season could prove invaluable in the long run. The ability to lead Texas to a playoff appearance and potentially a national championship in his first year would solidify Manning as the face of the program and a cornerstone for future success.

4. A Better Fit for Sarkisian’s System
   Steve Sarkisian is known for his creative, dynamic offense that is predicated on a high-powered passing game, which requires a quarterback who can process information quickly, make precise throws, and read defenses with efficiency. While Quinn Ewers has had moments of brilliance, his play style has not always meshed with Sarkisian’s vision for the offense. Ewers’ physical talent is unquestionable, but he tends to be more of a “gunslinger” type who relies on raw talent over system execution.

   Arch Manning, on the other hand, fits more seamlessly into Sarkisian’s system. His accuracy, decision-making, and football intelligence are tailor-made for a quarterback who needs to make quick reads and deliver precise passes in a system built on timing and precision. Manning’s ability to manage the game and execute at a high level could be the key to unlocking the full potential of Sarkisian’s offense. As a result, starting Manning could allow Texas to finally take full advantage of the system Sarkisian has put in place.

5. A Clear Path to the Playoffs
   Texas has a legitimate path to the College Football Playoff this season. The Big 12 is competitive, but Texas is well-positioned to win the conference and earn a playoff spot with a strong finish to the regular season. However, to make a deep playoff run, they will need consistent, elite play at the quarterback position. Arch Manning offers that possibility. His ability to elevate the play of his teammates, particularly the offense, could be the difference-maker in close games. With him under center, Texas could confidently face off against the nation’s best teams and have the firepower needed to win in the high-stakes environment of playoff football.

   Additionally, if Manning can gain valuable experience in high-pressure games this season, he will be much more prepared for the intense environment of the playoffs. A quarterback who has been tested in big moments—like a potential Big 12 Championship game, or even a playoff game—will be better suited to handle the pressure and lead Texas to victory.

The Risk of Waiting

While there is certainly value in allowing a young quarterback like Manning to develop and adjust to the college game at a slower pace, waiting too long to start him could cost Texas the opportunity to maximize their playoff chances. The college football season is a marathon, not a sprint, and every game counts. Sarkisian can ill afford to wait until the latter stages of the season to see if Manning is ready. The Longhorns need a quarterback who can lead them through tough competition and help them navigate the complexities of the playoff race.

If Sarkisian hesitates and waits too long, the team could find itself behind the eight ball when it comes to playoff contention. In a season as competitive as this one, any loss or missed opportunity could be detrimental to Texas’ playoff hopes. Starting Manning now allows the team to establish momentum and build chemistry as they move toward the postseason.