NFL
By: Larry Fields
Entering the season, expectations were that Arch Manning would lead the Texas Longhorns to championship contention. So far, that has not happened. Instead, Manning has become one of the team’s biggest question marks after back-to-back losses to Oklahoma and Florida exposed his flaws.
Manning has put up solid numbers this season, passing for 1,295 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions, but has played inconsistently. Manning has struggled with decision-making under pressure, protecting the football, and delivering consistency when the offense needs him to. He has the physical tools, but they mean little if he cannot translate them into winning football.
Pressure in the Pocket
When the offensive line struggles to keep defenders away, he hasn’t always found a quick solution, letting pressure disrupt his timing and decision-making. Manning has been sacked repeatedly this season, and the offense has struggled to maintain consistency when defenses attack the pocket.
However, the blame cannot fall entirely on the quarterback. The offensive line must protect him better, and head coach Steve Sarkisian needs to answer questions about how they’ll handle aggressive defensive fronts. Quick passes, screen plays, and a more reliable running game could help Manning avoid unnecessary pressure and settle into a rhythm.
Decision-Making Has Become a Major Problem
Manning’s decision-making has been one of the biggest storylines surrounding Texas this season. Against Oklahoma on October 10, he threw two fourth-quarter interceptions in a 27-24 loss that slipped away from the Longhorns. Those turnovers proved costly in a game Texas could have won.
The problem is not necessarily Manning’s arm strength or physical ability. It is recognizing defensive coverage, knowing when to move to another read, and understanding when a play is no longer worth forcing. Young quarterbacks often grow through these growing pains, but Manning must learn from them before they become a recurring problem.
Steve Sarkisian Must Help Manning Improve
While Manning deserves criticism for his mistakes, Sarkisian and the coaching staff must share responsibility for the offensive struggles. Texas has enough talent to field a more productive offense, but that talent must translate into execution on Saturdays. The coaching staff needs to put Manning in favorable situations instead of repeatedly asking him to overcome difficult circumstances.
That could mean simplifying certain reads, incorporating more designed quarterback movement, and leaning on the running game when the passing offense stalls. Manning does not need to make a spectacular play on every possession. Sometimes, taking the checkdown, throwing the ball away, or accepting a short gain is the smartest decision.
Bottom Line
Manning needs to step up and play better if Texas is to get back into championship contention. He needs to make the right decisions on the field, especially when the game is on the line. Until Manning proves he can deliver consistently in those moments, questions about him won’t go away.
