SEC Head Coach Praises Arch Manning Amid Backlash

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

SEC Head Coach Praises Arch Manning Amid Backlash

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Rowan Fisher-Shotton | Last updated Oct 15, 2025 12:57 PM ET

An article from The Athletic published on Oct. 7 labeled Arch Manning "college football’s first flop," arguing his early‑season play has not matched the preseason hype surrounding the Texas quarterback.

After Texas’ 23‑6 win over Oklahoma in Week 7, Manning said he had not known about the article until a reporter mentioned it and that he is focused on improving rather than reacting to hot takes.

"Yeah, I didn't know that. I guess I do now. I mean, look, I wasn't playing well and I want to continue to get better, but everyone has their own opinion. That's what's good about America: freedom of speech. It doesn't bother me," Manning added.

On Wednesday, another major SEC voice chimed in; Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops, whose Wildcats prepare to face Texas in Week 8.

"He's one of those guys that can make all the throws in rhythm and on time, or buying time because he's a good athlete," Stoops said. "He throws very good on the run."

Kentucky Head Coach Mark Stoops has High Praise for Texas QB Arch Manning

Check Out @CodyCarpentier's Behind Enemy Lines for More on this Kentucky Team that Texas Plays on Saturday: https://t.co/3M3iDRVI2q pic.twitter.com/NUf79GzsK1
— Orangebloods.com (@orangebloods_) October 15, 2025

Through six starts in 2025, Manning has completed 102-of-162 passes (63.0%) for 1,317 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions, while adding 194 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns, averaging 219.5 passing yards and 32.3 rushing yards per game.

In the Red River Rivalry on Saturday, Manning completed 21 of 27 passes for 166 yards with one touchdown, added 34 rushing yards, and helped Texas convert 10‑of‑17 third downs in a big-time, SEC win—an efficient showing that many observers viewed as a needed corrective after earlier inconsistencies.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks on during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl.Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Texas improved to 4‑2 heading into Week 8 against the 2-3 Wildcats, who just suffered back-to-back losses at South Carolina (L 35-13) and at Georgia (L 35-14).

Sustained efficiency, avoiding turnovers and continued growth under Texas coach Steve Sarkisian will determine whether Manning's rebuttal in Week 7 becomes a turning point or a brief rebound.

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

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