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Arch Manning’s Key Difference From Peyton and Eli Revealed by Insider

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Tristan Afshar | Last updated May 25, 2025 12:18 PM ET

Arch Manning may carry the one of the most famous last names in college football, but according to one insider, it’s the traits that separate him from Peyton Manning and Eli Manning that make him special.

While hype has surrounded Arch since high school, the buzz isn’t just about the name on the jersey.

As Clark Brooks from On3 pointed out during listing his Top 100 College Football Players, Manning brings a more dynamic and modern skillset to the quarterback position — one that could elevate Texas in ways his uncles never had the chance to.

“He’s got traits that translate,” Brooks said. “He can layer throws, he’s very calm in the pocket. Yes, he took some sacks last year, but I think that’s a sign of inexperience.”

More than just a pocket passer, Arch’s ability to improvise could be the X-factor that defines his path.

“Unlike his uncles, he’s not having to be anchored in the pocket and just be a pure on-time decision maker,” he continued. “He can create and can add some potency to an already scary offense with a high ceiling.”

Texas is loaded this year. With talent stacked around him, Arch enters the 2025 season in a position most young QBs only dream of. But not everyone agrees on how much the Longhorns will need from him right away.

“I saw JD PicKell say all he has to do is be like a third slide guy in a group project—you don’t really have to ask him that much,” he said. “I disagree.”

Texas has fallen short the past two years. This time, the belief is Arch can be the difference.

“He has that capability to get them to that next echelon with his playmaking, with his accuracy,” Brooks said. “And you know, he doesn’t just fall to (expletive) when he’s pressured.”

Arch will now lead the team as their undisputed quarterback in a colossal opener against defending national champions, Ohio State in what promises to be a blockbuster opener to the college football season.

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

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