Texas quarterback Arch Manning addressed media at SEC Media Day, preparing for his first season as the Texas Longhorns\' full-time starter after two years backing up Quinn Ewers. Manning acknowledged the attention surrounding him despite limited college experience, having started just two games in his career.
Manning generated significant media attention at the Atlanta event, with veteran Texas communications director John Bianco accompanying him to interviews. The third-generation Manning quarterback displayed characteristic humility when discussing his preparation for the upcoming season.
\"It\'s weird. I really haven\'t deserved any of this, so just trying to play along and play ball,\" Manning told ESPN.
Manning\'s first game as Texas\' starter comes against defending national champion Ohio State on August 30. The Week 1 matchup at Ohio State presents a challenging debut for the highly touted quarterback in a high-stakes environment.
Steve Sarkisian praised Manning\'s leadership qualities and work ethic, noting his ability to connect with teammates. Manning threw nine touchdown passes and rushed for four additional scores in limited action last season.
\"He doesn\'t think he\'s more than he is, doesn\'t walk around pointing at the name on the back of his jersey,\" Sarkisian said. \"He\'s just an easygoing guy.\"
Manning carries the weight of family expectations as the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning. His grandfather and uncles all starred in the SEC during their college careers.
\"It means everything,\" Manning said. \"I mean, my family has played in SEC, I grew up going to SEC games wanting to be a part of it. So now getting to represent at SEC media day, it\'s kind of a dream. I know I haven\'t done anything in the SEC yet, but that\'s the goal.\"
Speculation surrounds Manning\'s potential as a high NFL draft pick in 2026, though early expectations suggest he will play two college seasons. Manning deflected questions about his professional future, focusing on the upcoming season.
\"My grandfather always tells me to be a good guy and be a good teammate, so I think I\'m going to do that,\" Manning said.
Manning also spoke about why he chose Texas for college.
\"I think that was the cool thing, kind of why I chose Texas, in part, is because Austin\'s a big city,\" he said. \"You can kind of go places where no one really knows where you are. I don\'t know if that was possible in Tuscaloosa or Oxford.\"
Via Pete Thamel/ESPN
