“It’s His Time Now” – Arch Manning Reflects on Advice from Quinn Ewers as He Takes Over at Texas
The Texas Longhorns might have had the biggest quarterback controversy that never was in all of college football last season.
With Quinn Ewers returning for a third year, the plan was clear: lead Texas to a national title, make a run at the Heisman Trophy, and boost his NFL Draft stock. Meanwhile, Arch Manning, the highly-touted five-star recruit from the most famous quarterback family in football, waited in the wings.
There was never an actual battle for the starting job, but when Ewers suffered an oblique injury, it opened the door for Manning to take the field. And when he did, he delivered.
Still, once Ewers was healthy, Texas went back to their veteran starter, riding him all the way to the College Football Playoff Semifinal—where their season ended in a loss to eventual champion Ohio State. Shortly after, Ewers declared for the NFL Draft, officially ushering in the Arch Manning era in Austin.
The Advice Ewers Gave Manning After the Playoff Loss
Even though Ewers’ time at Texas ended on a tough note, he made sure to pass along some wisdom to his successor.
Speaking with ESPN’s Marty Smith, Manning shared the advice Ewers gave him right after the Longhorns’ loss to Ohio State in the semifinals.
“Kind of right after the Ohio State game, I was with Quinn in the locker room,” Manning recalled. “He was just like, ‘Enjoy every moment. It goes by quickly. So love on your teammates and have fun.’”
With Ewers preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft, Manning is now stepping into the spotlight, taking over one of the most storied programs in college football.
Manning is Ready for the Pressure
Manning’s last name alone brings sky-high expectations, but the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning seems more than prepared to handle the spotlight.
The former five-star prospect from New Orleans had a strong showing in limited action last season, finishing with:
- 900+ passing yards, 9 touchdowns
- 115 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns
Now, as the undisputed QB1 for Texas, Manning will look to lead the Longhorns back to the College Football Playoff—but this time, the goal is a national title.
The Arch Manning era officially kicks off on August 30 when Texas takes on Ohio State in a highly anticipated season opener.
