Arch Manning’s debut as a full-time starter at Texas faced a challenging test during the team’s 14-3 loss to Ohio State. Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, found himself under intense scrutiny as one of the most hyped players entering the 2025 season.
After limited playing time in his first two years at Texas, Manning took the helm as the team’s full-time quarterback for the first time this season. His performance against Ohio State, which drew a strong presence of NFL scouts and representatives, included 170 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception. The game, which ended in a 14-7 loss for Texas, became a litmus test for Manning’s ability to meet the high expectations placed on him as the son of two legendary quarterbacks.
One anonymous scout reportedly admitted it was “a little hard to watch” Manning’s performance. The scout attributed the difficulty to the immense pressure on Manning, who has been thrust into a spotlight that has made it hard to meet the anticipated standards. “He’s just been hyped up so much. Almost no matter what he did, he couldn’t have met those expectations,” the scout said. “I will admit that I thought he’d be better than he was.” This kind of feedback highlights the gap between the hype and the actual performance, creating a dilemma for Manning as he navigates his early college career.
However, not all observers were as critical. Former New York Jets scout Daniel Kelly offered a more favorable review, highlighting Manning’s progress. “He’s showed improvement in several key areas,” Kelly noted on X. “He’s gotten better at seeing the whole field. He’s better at going through his progressions and delivering more accurately on his 2nd and 3rd reads. And he’s A LOT better at feeling pressure.” Kelly pointed out specific moments during the Ohio State game where Manning was able to escape pressure and maintain composure, suggesting that there are positive signs for his development.
Manning himself acknowledged his performance on Monday, stating, “I’ve got to play better.” This response reflects a willingness to learn and grow, which is crucial for a player facing high expectations. The game against Ohio State was only the first step in Manning’s journey, and the upcoming schedule includes a matchup against San Jose State on September 6. As the 2025 season approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see how Manning continues to develop under the pressure of being the son of NFL legends.