ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit expressed strong confidence in Texas quarterback Arch Manning and the Longhorns heading into the 2026 season during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
Herbstreit highlighted the challenges Manning faced in his first full year as a starter, saying the experience would pay dividends both immediately and long term.
“I think what Arch Manning went thru a year ago will benefit him this year and in the NFL..I would be shocked if he and Texas don’t have a big year,” Herbstreit said.
The comments came as Texas prepares for a highly anticipated campaign following a 10-3 finish in 2025 that included a Citrus Bowl victory over Michigan.
Manning, the nephew of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning, entered last season amid massive hype as the preseason No. 1 team in the Associated Press poll.
Early struggles defined the opening stretch, including a season-opening loss at Ohio State in which he completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
Texas also dropped a game at Florida, and Manning dealt with intense scrutiny tied to his famous last name and lofty expectations. Yet the Longhorns and their quarterback rebounded strongly, winning seven of their final eight games.
Manning finished the year completing 248 of 404 passes for 3,163 yards and 26 touchdowns against seven interceptions. He added 399 rushing yards and 10 scores on the ground, showcasing dual-threat ability that peaked in the Citrus Bowl with 221 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 155 rushing yards and two more scores.
That late-season surge helped Texas secure its third consecutive 10-win season.
Herbstreit noted that the adversity Manning encountered was unlike anything he had observed for a college quarterback in a single year.
Many highly touted prospects reach the NFL without facing significant public criticism or on-field growing pains, he indicated, and those who do often struggle to adapt. Manning’s ability to weather the storm and improve provides a foundation for further growth under head coach Steve Sarkisian.
The Longhorns return a more experienced supporting cast this fall, bolstered by portal additions that strengthen the offensive line and skill positions.
Manning, now a junior, has already declared his intent to return for the 2026 season rather than enter the NFL draft early. He projects as a top prospect for the 2027 draft class, with some evaluators viewing him as a potential No. 1 overall pick if he builds on last year’s closing form.
Texas enters the year with championship aspirations in the competitive Southeastern Conference and beyond. The program has not claimed a national title since 2005, and the combination of Manning’s development and roster upgrades has fueled optimism in Austin.
Herbstreit’s assessment underscores a broader narrative around resilience for young quarterbacks under the microscope of modern college football. The media spotlight and fan expectations can intensify pressure, particularly for players carrying legacy names.
Manning’s progression from early inconsistency to a productive closer offers a case study in adapting under fire.
As the season approaches, all eyes will remain on the Longhorns and their quarterback to determine whether the predicted breakthrough materializes. A strong campaign could position Texas for a deep College Football Playoff run and elevate Manning further in Heisman Trophy conversations.
For now, Herbstreit’s endorsement on the popular show signals that the foundation laid in a difficult first starting year may prove the catalyst for sustained success.
