Steve Sarkisian’s management of Arch Manning’s playing time during the 2024 season has sparked considerable debate among Texas Longhorns fans and analysts. While some argue that increased involvement of Manning could have propelled Texas to greater heights, others believe Sarkisian’s approach was justified given the circumstances.
Quinn Ewers entered the 2024 season as Texas’s starting quarterback, bringing experience and leadership to the team. Despite facing injuries and challenges, Ewers led the Longhorns to an impressive 11–1 regular-season record and a berth in the College Football Playoff (CFP) . His performance included over 3,000 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to guide the offense effectively.
Arch Manning, a redshirt freshman and highly touted recruit, served as Ewers’s backup. He saw action in eight games, starting two, and demonstrated his potential by throwing for 939 yards and nine touchdowns, along with rushing for four scores . Manning’s performances, particularly in his starts, highlighted his readiness to contribute at a high level.
Sarkisian’s decision to maintain Ewers as the primary quarterback was rooted in Ewers’s proven track record and leadership qualities. However, Sarkisian did incorporate Manning into specific game situations, aiming to leverage his athleticism and keep defenses off balance. For instance, in the rivalry game against Texas A&M, Manning was utilized in red-zone packages, scoring a rushing touchdown .
Critics argue that these limited appearances disrupted the offensive rhythm and question the effectiveness of such packages . Nonetheless, Sarkisian defended his approach, emphasizing the importance of strategic deployment and keeping certain plays in reserve for critical moments .
Texas’s 2024 season was marked by significant achievements, including a strong regular-season record and a CFP appearance. While the team fell short of a national championship, it’s debatable whether increased playing time for Manning would have altered this outcome. Ewers’s leadership and experience were instrumental in navigating the challenges of the season, and Manning’s contributions, though limited, were impactful.
Moreover, the decision to gradually integrate Manning allowed him to develop without the pressure of leading the team outright, setting the stage for his anticipated role as the starting quarterback in the following season .
In retrospect, while the allure of Arch Manning’s potential was undeniable, Steve Sarkisian’s measured approach in 2024 balanced the immediate goals of the team with the long-term development of a future star quarterback. The decisions made were reflective of a broader strategy aimed at sustaining success and ensuring that both quarterbacks were positioned to thrive in their respective roles.
