In one of the most talked-about decisions in college football this season, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has chosen to start freshman Arch Manning over incumbent starting quarterback Quinn Ewers for the upcoming College Football Playoff game. The move has ignited heated debate among fans, analysts, and players, with many questioning whether this bold decision is the right one for the Longhorns’ postseason prospects. The decision to make Manning the starter, especially in such a high-stakes situation, has put the spotlight on both Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy and the immense expectations placed on Manning as the nephew of football legends Peyton and Eli Manning.
In this blog post, we’ll break down Sarkisian’s rationale behind the decision, the factors that led to this surprising move, and the implications for Texas football in the playoff. We’ll also explore the debate surrounding the decision—whether it is a strategic masterstroke or a potential risk that could backfire for the Longhorns.
The Manning Legacy and the Hype
Arch Manning has been one of the most highly anticipated quarterbacks in recent memory, and for good reason. The freshman out of New Orleans was a five-star recruit and the top quarterback in his class, garnering attention not only for his prodigious talent but also for his famous last name. Arch is the grandson of legendary quarterback Archie Manning, and the nephew of two NFL icons: Peyton Manning and Eli Manning. This family legacy has placed immense pressure on Arch from the moment he committed to Texas.
While Arch’s physical tools are undeniable—his strong arm, pocket presence, and football IQ are all elite—he is still a young player with relatively limited experience. Coming into his freshman year, expectations were sky-high, and there were questions about whether he could live up to the Manning name. In his limited playing time this season, Arch has shown glimpses of his potential but also signs of growing pains, typical for a first-year player adjusting to the speed and complexity of college football.
Despite these growing pains, his talent is hard to ignore, and it is evident that Sarkisian sees something in Arch that warrants a starting role in such a crucial game. Given the Longhorns’ potential to make a deep playoff run, Sarkisian’s decision to choose Manning over the more experienced Ewers is a significant gamble that has turned heads across the college football world.
Quinn Ewers: The Incumbent Starter
Quinn Ewers has been the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns for much of the 2023 season and was widely considered the leader of the team heading into the playoff. Ewers, who transferred from Ohio State before the 2022 season, is a former five-star recruit with immense talent. His strong arm, ability to make all the throws, and leadership on the field have helped Texas remain competitive in the Big 12 and earn a spot in the playoff.
However, despite Ewers’ physical gifts, his play has been inconsistent at times throughout the season. He has struggled with turnovers, missed opportunities, and at times has shown a lack of decision-making under pressure. These inconsistencies have led some to question whether he is the best option for Texas in the biggest game of the year. Sarkisian, known for his innovative offensive schemes, clearly believes that Manning, with his poise and potential, can deliver at a higher level in the postseason.
Ewers’ disappointment over being passed over for the starting role is understandable. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, there have been stretches where his performance didn’t quite measure up to the expectations placed on him. The decision to start Manning over Ewers could be seen as a signal that Sarkisian feels Manning is ready to elevate the offense in ways that Ewers has not been able to consistently do.
The Strategic Rationale Behind the Move
While choosing a freshman quarterback over an experienced starter for a playoff game might seem risky, Sarkisian’s decision likely stems from a combination of factors. First and foremost, Sarkisian is a coach who values the future of the program. With Arch Manning representing the future of Texas football, giving him the starting role in a high-pressure situation may be as much about preparing him for the long term as it is about securing a win in the short term. The playoff is an opportunity for Manning to get valuable experience, and Sarkisian may feel that Manning’s upside outweighs Ewers’ steady—but sometimes erratic—play.
Moreover, Manning has shown maturity and leadership qualities that impressed the coaching staff. Despite his freshman status, Manning’s football IQ, composure under pressure, and ability to command the huddle have stood out. In practices, he’s reportedly demonstrated an impressive understanding of the offense, showing poise beyond his years. Sarkisian, who has a history of developing quarterbacks—most recently with Heisman finalists like Mac Jones and Bryce Young at Alabama—may feel that Manning’s ceiling is too high to ignore in such a pivotal moment.
Additionally, the dynamics of playoff football differ significantly from regular-season play. The pressure, media attention, and stakes are amplified, and it’s essential to have a quarterback who can handle the mental strain. With Manning’s background, particularly as the heir to the Manning football dynasty, Sarkisian may feel that the spotlight won’t be too much for the freshman to handle. This decision could also be a calculated move to fast-track Manning’s development under intense scrutiny, knowing that the experience will serve him well in the future.
The Debate: Is Sarkisian’s Move a Gamble?
The decision to start Arch Manning over Quinn Ewers has sparked significant debate across the college football world. Many believe that Sarkisian’s move is a bold and visionary strategy that could pay off in the long run, allowing Manning to develop under the brightest lights and setting the stage for a future dynasty at Texas. After all, in college football, a quarterback with Manning’s pedigree and talent can be a game-changer, and starting him in the playoffs could fast-track his growth and give Texas the best chance of success over the next few years.
However, others view this decision as a gamble. Playoff football is no place for experimentation, and while Manning’s potential is undeniable, his lack of experience could be a liability in a game where every possession counts. With Texas facing a tough opponent, relying on a freshman quarterback in such a high-stakes environment could backfire if Manning struggles. Some argue that Ewers’ experience and ability to handle adversity may have been a safer choice, especially considering the pressure of a playoff game.
Additionally, Ewers’ teammates have publicly expressed their support for him, with many players believing that he deserved the chance to lead Texas in the postseason. This could create internal tension within the team if Manning’s performance doesn’t meet expectations, potentially leading to questions about team chemistry and morale.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Texas Football?
Regardless of the outcome, Sarkisian’s decision has massive implications for the future of Texas football. If Manning thrives in the playoff, it will solidify his place as the future of the program and could signal the beginning of a new era for the Longhorns. A strong performance could lead to a deep playoff run and further elevate Texas’ recruiting profile, making the Longhorns an even more attractive destination for future prospects.
On the other hand, if Manning struggles, it could create doubts about whether Sarkisian made the right call. It would also raise questions about Texas’ quarterback depth and whether the team is truly ready to compete at the highest level with a freshman under center. For Ewers, his future at Texas may be in jeopardy if the decision backfires, and he may look to transfer in search of more playing time.
Conclusion
Sarkisian’s decision to start Arch Manning over Quinn Ewers is one of the boldest and most controversial coaching moves in recent college football memory. The debate surrounding this choice speaks to the high stakes of the College Football Playoff and the pressure that comes with it. Whether or not this move pays off will likely determine Texas’ playoff trajectory and shape the future of the program. For now, all eyes will be on Arch Manning, the freshman with the weight of the Manning legacy on his shoulders, to see if he can rise to the occasion and lead Texas to glory.