Texas receives concerning Arch Manning news before matchup vs. Vanderbilt

Caldwell is an unknown commodity. The journeyman QB has also played for Jacksonville State, Gardner-Webb and Troy. In those stops, he never threw more than 13 TD passes in a season.

The QB should benefit from playing with elite talent at a Power 4 program in Texas. His small sample size has been solid. In five games, he has completed 8-of-11 passes for 72 yards and one TD. More importantly, Sarkisian trusts the backup. 

"He's played well every time we put him in the game," the coach said of Caldwell on Monday (h/t 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."  

But Saturday's matchup against Vanderbilt may be the biggest of Caldwell's career. No. 20 Texas (6-2, 3-1 SEC) is fifth in the conference. Its College Football Playoff and conference title hopes will likely be dashed if it loses to the Commodores. 

Pulling off the upset without Manning was already challenging enough. Vanderbilt is tied for 24th in the FBS in points allowed (18.8). Longhorns fans will hope luck is on Caldwell's side if he plays Saturday. It sure seems he'll need it.