Arch Manning's mountainous challenge in 2025 put in perspective with latest top 100 players list

Expectations are as high as can be for Texas quarterback Arch Manning. Despite attempting only 90 passes in 2024, he's universally projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and supposed to be an elite quarterback right away. 

As the focus turns from recruiting and NFL Draft talk, there's more attention to how loaded the Longhorns are entering this season. On3's latest top 100 player list demonstrated just how far ahead Steve Sarkisian's roster is. 

The Longhorns boast seven entrants in the nation's top 100, which is four more than Ohio State, two more than Alabama, five more than Georgia, and three more than Penn State. It makes it seem inevitable the Longhorns will win the National Championship.

And that may be the case, but the bigger takeaway is how this uniquely puts pressure on Manning to avoid the reputation Quinn Ewers had as someone who held the team back.

Texas Players in the Top 100

• No. 4: EDGE Colin Simmons
• No. 9: LB Anthony Hill Jr.
• No. 10: QB Arch Manning
• No. 43: CB Malik Muhammad
• No. 45: WR Ryan Wingo
• No. 90: OT Trevor Goosby
• No. 93: S Michael Taaffe

Manning ranks third at quarterback behind Arizona State's Sam Leavitt and South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers. Here's their analysis on Manning.

“You might have heard about this kid. Well like many, we at On3 expect big things out of Manning 3.0. In previous years, labeling a Sarkisian QB as a Checkdown Charlie or Offensive Executive would be a given. But in this case, it would be downright reprehensible.

Like his uncles, he has premier passing abilities. He can layer throws, hit targets all over the yard, and stay in attack mode from the pocket with excellent balance, timing, and anticipation. Like his grandpa, he has noticeable twitch and burst that do him well outside of structure and as a designed rusher. Yes, Manning ought to benefit from his environment. But he’s also talented enough to elevate Texas to planes it hasn’t been in a generation.”

Is that fair to ask of someone with Manning's lack of experience?

Manning looked the part of a high-end starter as he completed 67.8% of his 90 throws for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions. He added 108 yards and four scores on the ground. It also helps when Sarkisian has added such encouraging statements on Manning.

If Manning does emerge as the clear top dog in the SEC in his first season as a starter, then this team should go undefeated and win the National Championship. That's even accounting for their trips to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia.