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Paul Finebaum Makes Ridiculous Claim About Arch Manning

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Aug 30, 2025 11:09 AM ET

If the hype surrounding Arch Manning wasn't already reaching insane levels, it's about to thanks to Paul Finebaum.

For the past month, Finebaum has said that Texas will defeat Ohio State during its Week 1 matchup in Columbus. The longtime SEC pundit is convinced Manning will "perform beautifully" this Saturday. Of course, only time will tell if he's right.

During this Saturday's preview show on SEC Network, Finebaum made it clear that he's not going to stop raving about Manning. That's because he believes the Texas quarterback is the best player college football has seen since Tim Tebow.

We're not kidding. Finebaum really said that on national television.

"I've said it before and I'll say it again. This is the best player we have seen from every aspect since Tim Tebow," Finebaum said. "He hasn't proven it yet, but in terms of magic, majesty and buzz, that's where we are. People are going to be watching this game today who would never normally watch a college football game."

That seems incredibly unfair to compare Manning to Tebow, a two-time national champion and Heisman Trophy winner. From 2006-2009, the former Florida quarterback had 9,285 passing yards, 2,947 rushing yards and 145 total touchdowns.

Tebow offers his thoughts on Manning.

It turns out Tebow isn't insulted by Finebaum's comments. In fact, he thinks Manning has an extremely bright future.

"I’m excited. I really think he has an extremely high floor," Tebow said. "I think it’s one of the highest floors because he can do everything. And I’m excited to see where that ceiling is because this is someone that since he first put on a helmet has had to deal with pressure because he’s a Manning,” Tebow said. “And then, with all of the hype, it’s just compounded. But I think he’ s handled it extremely well. His first couple of years at Texas, he said the right things, he’s done the right things. He’s stepped in and played really well when he’s gotten the opportunity, but he also does everything at least well.

“He runs the football, and he can run physically; he can run for speed. He throws it accurately, he’s got a strong arm – it’s probably not the strongest in the country – but he’s someone that there’s nothing, when you look at his skill set, that I don’t think he does well. Now we’ll see how he’s able to lead with all the pressure, but he’s someone that I believe could be really good to great.”

Last season, Manning completed 67.8% of his passes for 939 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions. We can't wait to see how he handles the bright lights this fall.

Manning will try to lead Texas to a win over Ohio State this Saturday afternoon.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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