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CFB Analyst Calls Out Paul Finebaum for Arch Manning-Tim Tebow Take

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Utsav Khanna | Last updated Jul 4, 2025 8:35 AM ET

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning's hype has drawn comparisons to former Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow multiple times this offseason.

Last month, Josh Pate did it, and earlier this week, Paul Finebaum said that he has not seen a more talented quarterback than Manning since Tim Tebow.

This take had Paul Finebaum getting called out on his show while he wasn't even there. ESPN Radio Host Braden Gall was filling in for Finebaum and brought on Blake Toppmeyer.

Gall asks the USA Today analyst what he thinks about Finebaum's opinion on Manning, and Toppmeyer partially disagrees, saying:

"That's pretty high praise from Paul. That feels a bit premature at this point because I remember a guy named Joe Burrow who was pretty good for LSU...But I don't think it is premature to rank Arch Manning as the No. 1 quarterback in the SEC."

Most of the media see Manning as a top quarterback in the SEC. But the USA Today analyst went one step further to put him at the top above experienced QBs Garrett Nussmeier, LaNorris Sellers, and John Mateer.

Longhorns' schedule makes sure fans get to see Manning go through some heavy hitters. First up, they take on the mighty Ohio State Buckeyes and their No. 2-ranked defense.

After that, DJ Lagway and the Longhorns QB go head-to-head on October 4 in Florida. It will be a true test for Steve Sarkisian's offense, which he has tailored this year to accommodate Manning's deep ball abilities.

The 21-year-old QB will also have to prove himself against the Georgia Bulldogs and the Oklahoma Sooners. John Mateer would have circled out the Red River game as many analysts see him outside the top-tier quarterbacks in the conference and definitely below Arch.

If Manning and the Longhorns survive these four brutal matchups, they have to face in-state rivals Texas A&M. Mike Elko is predicted to put up his best fight against the Longhorns, and stopping Manning would be at the top of his list.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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