Texas coach says Arch Manning has grown into a "dangerous" quarterback after last season's criticism

Arch Manning is set to graduate from the University of Texas in December with a degree in Communication & Leadership, but he says he will not pursue a career in media. The third-generation quarterback and head coach Steve Sarkisian reflected on the criticism Manning faced during his first season as the Longhorns' full-time starter, noting that the scrutiny would have "melted or destroyed 99 percent of the people in his shoes."

Sarkisian added that Manning is now a "very dangerous player" who has learned from last year and is surrounded by a stronger supporting cast. Texas entered the offseason by adding top recruits and transfers, including the No. 1 receiver Cam Coleman, running backs Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown, three offensive-line starters, and four defensive starters from other Power-5 schools. The program also secured a five-star cornerback, John Meredith, who reclassified to join the team this fall.

The Longhorns, ranked with the third-best odds to win the national title behind Ohio State and Notre Dame, aim to improve on a challenging start to the previous season. Sarkisian said his primary offseason focus was building chemistry among 47 new players, including 22 transfers, a process he began in February after acknowledging a cultural shortfall the prior year.

Team-building activities have included a recent scavenger hunt on campus that ended at the football stadium, with Manning leading one group. "Everyone is sweating bullets; it’s 100 degrees in Austin right now, and they’re having a blast together as a team," Sarkisian said, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie for late-game resilience.

Manning, who is listed among preseason Heisman favorites, said his personal goals are to be a good teammate and help the team win, adding that he is focusing on Spanish classes and golf before camp opens.