Arch Manning will begin his second season behind Quinn Ewers at Texas. The Longhorns starting quarterback believes an extended wait will ultimately benefit last year’s top-ranked recruit.
Appearing on RG3 and The Ones, Ewers told Robert Griffin III that he thinks Manning “gains a lot” from a slower transition to the QB1 role. The process will help the Louisiana native assimilate to his new surroundings on and off the field.
“Not being from the state and coming in, it’s obviously a little different,” Ewers said, via On3. “I think he’s got more time to grow his pride and love for the university … Being able to sit back and watch, it’s different than playing. So him seeing kinda what’s going on from inside but also outside, he can gain a lot of intel from that.”
Ewers believes a second season as a backup will better prepare Manning to lead the Longhorns when his number is called.
“And then, obviously, another year to learn the offense and just get more comfortable within the smaller details,” he added. “It’s like the best situation for him, I think.”
Manning joined Austin as college football’s most hyped recruit, but Ewers tightly grasped the starting job by steering Texas to the College Football Playoff. He finished his second season on Steve Sarkisian’s team with 8.8 yards per pass attempt and a 69.0 completion percentage.
Ewers’ return creates an enviable problem for Sarkisian, who brings back both former No. 1 recruits in 2024. Manning might also view his circumstances positively, as numerous programs likely would have gladly offered him a starting opportunity if he transferred.
Of course, there’s no guarantee Ewers will keep Manning sidelined for another full season.
Related: Quinn Ewers Reacts To Arch Manning’s Spring Game Performance