Steve Sarkisian delivers a clear message to Arch Manning in Texas final game as the Longhorns prepare for a season with no playoffs
The Longhorns will play their final game against their undefeated rivals, Texas A&M
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- NCAA.What can we expect from the game between Texas A&M and Arch Manning's team?
As theCollege Football regular season draws to a close this weekend, the reigning champions,Ohio State, look like favorites to repeat their title. One team that appears poised to miss the playoffs, however, is the only team in the entire nation that hadplayed in the College Football Playoff over the last two years: theTexas Longhorns.
Texas, along with Ohio State, was apre-season favorite for the title, andArch Manning was the Heisman favorite despite this being only his first season as a starting quarterback with limited experience. While there remains aminimal chance for the Longhorns to finish in the top 12, it starts with securing a victory today against their fierce state rivals, the undefeatedTexas A&M Aggies.
Sarkisian Praises Manning's Growth Amid Defensive Slide
For thefirst time in 15 years, the Aggies are making the trip to Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, and Longhorns Head CoachSteve Sarkisian is framing the moment as an"awesome opportunity" for Arch Manning. Sarkisian expressed pride in his young quarterback's development, tellingKXAN's Roger Wallace:"He's been playing really well for us in the last six weeks or so. He's really grown up, and I've been proud of him."
The coach stressed that Manning's admirable qualities have not changed:"I think that's the beauty of Arch Manning: Who he was at the beginning of the year and how humble he was and the work ethic that he had,I'm excited for him because I think this is an awesome opportunity for him to really show his growth and how far he's come this season."
Indeed, Manning has put up strong numbers this year,even matching or exceeding those of some Heisman-contending quarterbacks. In 11 games,Manning has thrown for 2,763 yards, 31 total touchdowns (including 7 rushing), and seven interceptions. These are impressive figures, but the scrutiny and demand for perfection that come with his last name are undeniably higher.
It is important to note that the team's struggles this year largely stem from the defense, which has taken a major step back after being one of the best units in the entireNCAAF over the last two seasons. Now the No. 16 Longhorns are hoping to maintain momentum after a52-37 win over Arkansas last weekend. Emotions will be running extremely high at DKR-TMS, not only because of the Aggies, who Sarkisian acknowledged arehighly ranked at No. 3 "for a reason", but also because it isSenior Night.
The 2026 Question: Manning Faces Critical Career Decision
Given his widespread popularity,Manning could decide to declare for the upcoming NFL Draft. However, i believe this would be a mistake. If he plays one more year in Texas, the lessons and experience gained from this season will be vital for his continued development. Being honest,the Longhorns' season is a failure if they do not make the playoffs, which appears to be the most likely outcome.
At21 years old, Manning has a critical career decision ahead of him. However, with the support of his family, he is sure to make the best choice for his future. First, he must face the incredibly tough challenge of the undefeated Aggies tonight.
