Peyton Manning gets asked who he'll cheer for if Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns play the Tennessee Vols

Tennessee Vols legend Peyton Manning has been fortunate during the first two years of nephew Arch Manning's career with the Texas Longhorns.

So far, Arch, who is entering his third season at Texas, hasn't faced off against Peyton's beloved Vols.

And the two programs aren't scheduled to play each other in 2025 — though the Vols and the Longhorns could meet in the SEC Championship Game or the College Football Playoff, if both programs advance that far.

There's a good chance, however, that Texas and Tennessee will play in 2026. The SEC schedule for the 2026 season hasn't been set yet, but I'd bet the Vols and the Longhorns will meet in either Austin or Knoxville.

Arch could go to the NFL after the 2025 season, but considering it will be his first full season as a starter with the Longhorns, it's very possible (if not likely) that he'll stick around at Texas for a fourth season. 

So if the Vols and the Longhorns meet in 2026 (or sooner), what will Peyton do? Will he cheer for his nephew over his alma mater? 

The Sporting News' Bill Bender asked Peyton that very question this week. 

Peyton told Bender he hasn't gotten that far yet. 

"I haven't gotten that far," said Peyton. "I pull hard for my Tennessee Volunteers every single week, but I'll be pulling hard for my nephew this year."

That's going to be a tough spot for Peyton, but he'll be able to lean on advice from his parents, who both went to Ole Miss and had to watch their son play against the Rebels in college.

Family is family, and I don't think anyone can blame Peyton if he's rooting for Arch to come through with the game on the line. Ultimately, though, I think Peyton will just enjoy the game and accept whatever outcome unfolds.

That said, maybe Peyton won't be too sad if the Vols come out on the plus side of the scoreboard.