Rece Davis Makes Surprising Arch Manning Prediction for Texas’ 2025 Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Apr 14, 2025 10:22 AM ET

The college football season is still several months away, but with spring games taking place over the weekend, the excitement surrounding highly touted Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning continues to build. After serving as the backup to Quinn Ewers for the past two seasons, Manning is expected to step into the spotlight in 2025.

A former five-star recruit and the nephew of NFL legends Eli and Peyton Manning, Arch has quickly become a fan favorite in Austin and across the college football landscape.

However, "College GameDay" host Rece Davis believes that could change quickly. In fact, Davis predicts that outside of Texas, Manning may soon become college football’s next “villain.”

“It’s unfortunate. Because of the attention he’s going to get, he’s going to become a fan favorite among Texas fans. And for others outside of Texas, he’s going to become the ultimate villain—and I don’t just mean Oklahoma people,” Davis said on the "College GameDay Podcast."

Davis added, “Those who aren’t predisposed to like him—whether they dislike Texas, the Mannings, the ManningCast, or just feel like it’s too much too soon—they’re going to root against him.”

The last name “Manning” carries weight—and if Arch plays well, as many expect he will, the hate will inevitably follow. That kind of criticism often comes with status.

Shedeur Sanders is a prime example of what it’s like to experience this. As soon as Colorado started winning, public perception of Sanders shifted. While he has a massive following—much like Manning—it comes with the territory.

At a school like Texas, where the expectations are national championship-level, Manning will need to be ready for it, and if he's anything like his uncles, he certainly will be.

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

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