Paul Finebaum: Arch Manning Poised to Be Texas’ Best Quarterback Since Colt McCoy
In a bold proclamation that has Longhorn fans buzzing, ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum believes Arch Manning is on the verge of ushering in a new golden era for Texas football. According to Finebaum, the highly touted quarterback is primed to be the greatest signal-caller in Austin since Colt McCoy, the revered leader who nearly delivered Texas a national title in 2009.
Speaking on his nationally syndicated radio show, Finebaum didn’t hold back his admiration for the redshirt freshman. “Arch Manning is the real deal,” Finebaum said. “He’s not just a product of his last name. This kid has the tools, the IQ, and the poise to be the best quarterback Texas has seen since Colt McCoy — maybe even better.”
The high praise comes as Manning continues to impress in offseason workouts and team practices. After redshirting in 2023 and sitting behind Quinn Ewers last season, Manning is widely expected to compete for — and possibly win — the starting job in 2025. His progress has been closely monitored not just because of his lineage, but also due to the mounting expectations placed upon him from the moment he committed to Texas.
Finebaum noted that while many five-star recruits falter under the spotlight, Manning has handled the pressure with maturity beyond his years. “There’s a calm confidence about him,” Finebaum said. “He’s not chasing headlines. He’s working hard, studying film, and earning the respect of his teammates.”
Texas fans are no strangers to quarterback hype, but many are hopeful that Manning will finally be the one to restore the program’s national prominence. Colt McCoy’s career from 2006 to 2009 remains the gold standard for modern Texas quarterbacks, highlighted by a 45-8 record as a starter and a near-victory in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game against Alabama.
Since McCoy’s departure, the Longhorns have cycled through a string of quarterbacks without sustained success. Finebaum believes Manning could be the long-awaited answer. “Texas has been searching for that cornerstone player under center. Arch Manning has everything you want in a franchise quarterback — talent, pedigree, and leadership,” he said.
With the Longhorns set to enter the SEC in full force and head coach Steve Sarkisian building momentum on the recruiting trail, Finebaum’s forecast may soon prove accurate. If Arch Manning lives up to the hype, the next chapter of Texas football could rival its storied past — and perhaps even surpass it.
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