Texas' quarterback Arch Manning (16) Annie Rice/Avalanche-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Texas QB Arch Manning impresses in college football debut

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 11/25/23

Arch Manning made his college football debut on Friday, and his performance during his brief playing time impressed.

Manning’s Texas Longhorns ripped the Texas Tech Red Raiders 57-7 at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin on Friday. The Longhorns rushed for three touchdowns and got a pick-six and touchdown pass from Quinn Ewers.

Texas was up so big that they let Manning get his first taste of college action while leading 50-7 late in the third quarter. On his first drive, Manning got the ball inside the 10 but stalled out and turned it over on downs. On Manning’s second (and last) drive, Texas scored a touchdown.

Manning went 2-for-5 for 30 yards as a passer. He also rushed for seven yards on three carries. But it was his work as a runner that left many fans impressed.

Arch Manning showing some wheels to pick up the first down. pic.twitter.com/7b9VySd57G

— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_TFB) November 25, 2023

Indeed, Arch is mobile and can run well. That’s no surprise considering his father Cooper was a speedy wide receiver before retiring due to a back condition.

Texas has no more than three games left in their season, so head coach Steve Sarkisian could give Manning playing time without worrying about the freshman losing his redshirt.

The Longhorns are now 11-1 and will play in the Big 12 championship game next weekend.

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

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