Arch Manning 2025 doubts resurface as he prepares to make history

With Quinn Ewers departing for the NFL, the path has been cleared for Arch Manning to take the reins as the Texas Longhorns' starting quarterback. But is he ready for the task at Texas Memorial Stadium? Some have their doubts.

As the highly touted prospect prepares for his first full season, expectations are soaring. The grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning has long been considered the future of the program.

His brief appearances during the 2024 season showcased flashes of talent, at times looking as though he could even displace Ewers. However, the question remains: can he meet the lofty expectations placed upon him?

Manning is expected to make his starting debut on August 30, 2025, against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes. That game will serve as a crucial test of his mental resilience and talent. But while his pedigree and glimpses of potential have fueled excitement, concerns are emerging about whether he is ready to handle the immense pressure. Comparisons are already being drawn to Tennessee's Nico Iamaleava, who entered his first season with similar expectations but struggled.

Iamaleava's experience serves as a cautionary tale. Despite being a top recruit and high-profile NIL earner, his initial season did not match the early Heisman hype surrounding him. Analyst Chris Phillips commented on the similarity between the two situations:

"The one thing you don't want to happen, though, CJ, is, you know, Nico Iamaleava had big-time buildup, too," Phillips told On Texas Football. "He was the eight-million-dollar quarterback. Again, we had been talking about him for years because of the recruiting process, and he didn't play bad last year.

"But he just, he had these, 'Man, can Nico win the Heisman his first full year starting?' It's just really tough to live up to that. So, I'm keeping probably somewhat more realistic expectations than some folks out there."

Is Manning poised for Heisman beartbreak?

While many believe Manning will be in Heisman contention, analysts suggest other quarterbacks are gaining attention. Josh Pate has highlighted five signal-callers expected to excel in 2025, including Dante Moore, Austin Simmons, and Julian Sayin, so Manning may not be the frontrunner many once assumed.

Adding to his challenges, Manning will not have the same level of offensive that Ewers did. Several key contributors have either declared for the NFL Draft or entered the transfer portal, including running back Jaydon Blue, wide receivers Matthew Golden and Isaiah Bond, and tight end Gunnar Helm.

Although Manning possesses the talent and lineage to succeed, his first season as a starter will be a defining test.