Arch Manning is still the starting quarterback for Texas, but coach Steve Sarkisian just delivered a blunt assessment: “I need to see a better version of Arch Manning.” Those words hit different, especially after the Longhorns have been on a two-game skid, completely torching their top-10 ranking. This isn’t just coach-speak, folks. Sarkisian openly admitted that Manning’s leash “could be shortened this season.” You can feel the tension building.
Manning’s Rollercoaster Is Getting Bumpy
Look, Manning’s had a rough stretch. Over the weekend, he struggled against Florida, and that 27-24 loss officially put the Longhorns in a tough spot. It wasn’t just that game, either. Remember the loss to Oklahoma this month? Manning threw two picks in the fourth quarter then, too. Sarkisian actually defended him back then, saying his QB got unfair criticism. But after Manning lost his first career home game thanks to a costly late-game fumble this past weekend? The tune has changed. Manning has straight-up regressed this season from a consistency standpoint compared to how he finished the 2025 campaign, his first as a starter. So far this season, through seven games, he’s tossed for 1,295 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Four of those giveaways? Against Power Four competition. That’s a trend you don’t want to see.
Texas Offense Is Flatlining, And It’s Not Just Arch
Sarkisian isn’t holding back on the entire offense. He straight up said, “we didn’t play good offensive football, and we’re not playing great offensive football right now.” And the stats back him up big time. After seven games, Texas ranks 12th in the SEC in total offense. Twelfth! They’re 13th in rushing offense and a mind-blowing 15th in explosive plays. With all the talent on that roster, those numbers are stunning. It seems like all the attention on Manning might actually be messing with the team’s offensive cohesion, from how they execute plays to even Sarkisian’s play-calling. This isn’t just about one guy, but the QB is definitely at the center of it. Manning knows it too, saying, “Yeah, I mean everyone’s evaluated every week. That’s how it is when you go to a school like this with elite players. Everyone’s gotta get better, and that starts with me.”
This Saturday, Texas faces off against seventh-ranked Ole Miss. It’s a huge test for Manning and for the entire Longhorns offense. Can they get a “better version” on the field and prove Sarkisian’s faith isn’t completely misplaced?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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