Eli Manning Offers Insight on Arch Manning Before Texas-Ohio State Matchup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jul 15, 2025 1:00 PM ET

The hype surrounding the Texas Longhorns and quarterback Arch Manning, who is entering his first year as the full-time starter, couldn't be greater, as ESPN BET gives them the best odds to win the SEC (+250).

They will be on the road to face the reigning national champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes, on Aug. 30 at noon ET.

A win would set Texas up nicely for a run at the College Football Playoff. During an appearance on ESPN's "Get Up" on Tuesday, Eli Manning, Arch's uncle, offered some insight on the young quarterback.

“I’m just proud of Arch, I’m just proud of how he’s handled the situation … He’s just dialed into everything going on,” Eli said. “He’s a sponge right now. Every time I see him, he’s asking questions … I’m excited for him. It’s not an easy task coming in Week 1, going to Ohio State, defending champions, and go into their house and try to play well, but I think he’s up for the challenge. He's worked his tail off. I've seen it.”

.@EliManning gives encouragement to his nephew and Texas QB Arch Manning:

"I'm just proud of Arch. ... He's just dialed into everything going on. He's a sponge right now. ... He's worked his tail off. I've seen it." pic.twitter.com/1Vgcc0lnl9
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) July 15, 2025

Given that Arch Manning was also the No. 1 recruit in the 2023 class, per Rivals Industry Rankings, it doesn't come as much of a surprise that he's facing these high expectations.

Manning has had plenty of time to take over in Texas. He sat behind Quinn Ewers for two years, allowing him to gain a full grasp of the team's offense.

The Week 1 matchup could also show how Manning handles these big situations. Analyst Paul Finebaum even went so far as to say the quarterback is under the most pressure of any player going into 2025.

In his limited playing time through his first two seasons, he's been solid, completing 63-of-95 passes for 969 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions with 115 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

However, it remains to be seen if Manning can continue to perform well against Ohio State, which last season ranked No. 1 in points per game allowed (12.9).

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

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