Should Texas roll with backup QB Matthew Caldwell despite positive Arch Manning update?

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning might be on the fast track to play in Saturday's home game against the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Manning — who was placed in concussion protocol after a 45-38 Week 9 win over the Mississippi State Bulldogs — practiced on Wednesday and Thursday. The QB was listed as questionable on the team's initial injury report released Wednesday.

"I don't have anything beyond for Arch just because we have to follow the protocol of the days and the reps, but he's making good progress," Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian said Thursday, per Jim Vertuno of the Associated Press.  

Will Arch Manning's progress change Texas' plans? 

Texas still may not be in a rush to insert Manning back into the starting lineup. Sarkisian gave backup QB Matthew Caldwell a vote of confidence after he practiced with the first-team offense on Monday.

"He's played well every time we put him in the game," Sarkisian said of the Troy transfer, via Field Level Media. "What gives me confidence is who he's been, so I feel very comfortable with Matt when he's in the ballgame. 

"The moment's not too big for him."

Caldwell looked poised after Manning exited after taking a massive hit in overtime against Mississippi State. On his second play, the fifth-year senior threw a 10-yard touchdown to wide receiver Emmett Mosley V.