As the Texas Longhorns prepare for their College Football Semifinal game against Washington on Monday, Arch Manning is preparing to play if needed as the backup to Quinn Ewers.
Manning had been the No. 3 QB this season behind Maalik Murphy. But Murphy announced he was transferring to Duke and Manning, who was the subject of rumors as a transfer candidate, has moved up one spot.
Murphy, along with Manning, was a highly recruited player when he came to Texas, hoping to unseat Ewers for the job. Instead, not only did Ewers keep the job, but he led the Longhorns to a 12-1 record and a spot in the playoff.
Ewers hasn’t yet announced if he’ll be back next season. That decision has to be made by Jan. 15.
What will Arch Manning do moving forward?
Murphy’s departure moves Manning up one spot, but will he stay at Texas, knowing that Ewers might be back?
Scouts around the country think so. Manning hasn’t been as polished as expected, so staying another year and learning under Steve Sarkisian and his staff might be a good option.
Manning was the No. 2 overall prospect in the Class of 2023 and enrolled at Texas in January to go through spring practice.
Ewers was named the starter in the spring and when he was injured during the season, it was Murphy who started in his place the next two games before Ewers returned.
Manning did get a little playing time this season. He completed two passes for 30 yards. He also ran the ball for seven yards.
Texas will play Washington at 8:45 p.m. on Monday at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.