Texas football expects in the program's upcoming Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma. Arch Manning made his highly anticipated first start in his absence, creating some speculation about which talented passer would keep the role. After in a dominant 56-7 win, the junior QB missed the next two games against LA Monroe and Mississippi State.
The , winning the first game 51-3 and the second 35-13. Manning, the nephew of NFL brothers Eli and Peyton, impressed during Ewers' absence in both games. Manning suited up against UL Monroe and completed 15 passes for 258 yards and two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions.
Against Mississippi State, Manning , with 324 yards through the air and two touchdowns. He showed mobility and speed, unlike his uncles, scored a rushing TD, and ripped off a 26-yard run late in the third quarter when the team had a 31-6 lead. After two starts, the news cycle shifted from the Freshman QB patiently waiting his turn to take the reigns and studying the ways of Ewers, who is projected to be a top 10 draft selection in the , to taking the job now.
While Ewers' performances leave little doubt he remains Texas' starter, Manning's performances at the very least give the team the luxury of not feeling too much pressure to rush their star man back. Texas coach before game day, but according to the program expects him to return to the starting lineup. Sarkisian admitted pushing Manning to his limits in the SEC matchup against the Bulldogs.
Should Ewers' injury.